MACKINAC ISLAND, MI - Mackinac Island is gearing up for one of its biggest parties of the season. The 10-day Lilac Festival is set to kick off on June 7 and is packed with events, activities and photo-worthy moments before it wraps up on June 16. Fresh off its win as the No.
2 Best Flower Festival in the U.S . by USA Today voters, this year’s 76th annual Lilac Festival will toast the theme of “Petals & Pedals” - a nod to the blooms and the bicycles that are a big part of the island’s charm.
It’s one of the longest-running flower festivals in the state. Some people plan their vacations just so they can be on the island when this big celebration is taking place, complete with its Main Street parade, poster competition, festival queen and lilac-themed tours. “Lilacs have graced Mackinac Island with their beauty for nearly 200 years and hold a special place in the history and culture of our island,” said Tim Hygh, executive director of the Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau.
“We are thrilled to welcome visitors to the island to help us celebrate this beloved island blossom and our community has a number of exciting new updates in store, which will truly make it a festival to remember.” Bikes and lilacs - what could be more Mackinac Island than this pairing? Photo provided by the Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau. One of the fun twists for this year is a new special edition festival beer.
The tangerine lager was brewed by Big Lake Brewing in Holland and will be served i.