Mackinaw City Vacation, Explore Mackinaw City | Mackinaw Area Visitors Bureau

Celebrate an all American 4th of July in the Straits of Mackinac

No place celebrates America’s independence quite like the communities in the Straits of Mackinac. Bring your family and enjoy a full day of activities in Mackinaw City, including:

  • 1-3pm — Family Games on the Marina Lawn
  • 9pm-Dusk — Straits Area Concert Band Concert at Conking Heritage Park
  • Dusk — The Largest & Most Spectacular Fireworks Display in Norther Michigan over the bay at the State Dock

Over on Mackinac Island, you’re invited to join in An American Picnic (July 4-5, 6:30-10:30pm) at Fort Mackinac, which will be decked out in its red, white and blue bunting for its celebration of July 4 with An American Picnic. Enjoy delicious BBQ on the parade ground, listen to the 38-gun salute (one for each state in the union), and feel the tremble of the cannon as celebratory cannon shots are fired louder and louder to celebrate our independence. Tickets are required and are available through Mackinac State Historic Parks.

Those looking for a more unique experience may be interested in the special fireworks cruises offered by Shepler’s Ferry and Star Line Ferry. Imagine being on a boat out in the waters of the Straits of Mackinac as the fireworks explode in a plethora of colors above your head! During these 90-minute excursions, you’ll see the light displays not only from Mackinaw City but also from St. Ignace and Mackinac Island. Space is limited and advanced reservations are required by contacting the individual ferry lines and are weather permitting.