The Mackinac Bridge is by far one of the most iconic Michigan landmarks. Connecting our upper peninsula to its lower sister, this bridge has brought us all together with 60+ years of easier travel.
*Update: Unfortunately due to terrorist threats the Department of Homeland Security and Michigan State Police have been forced to make big changes to the events that have become iconic to our Mackinac Bridge. To learn more about these changes please visit this article by UpNorth Live.
Image source: Travel & Leisure
Events on the Mackinac Bridge have become very popular in recent years with requests for different groups crossing on the rise. Listed below are the current crossing events in order by month, with updates coming at least yearly to reflect any new information.
Annual Mackinac Bridge Events
Jeep the Mac
This Mackinac Bridge crossing is fairly new, starting in 2016 with nearly 500 participates. It goes from Mackinaw City to Drummond Island with an entire weekend of fun, ceremonies, awards and giveaways. If you have a Jeep and look forward to the camaraderie go to the “Jeep the Mac” site to register and learn more. Planned for April every year.
Memorial Bridge Run
A 5 mile race whether against yourself or everyone else is unarguably one of the most scenic runs you will ever do and definitely one you should cross off your list. To register and learn more go here. Held in May, Memorial weekend of course.
Motorcycles on the Mac
This event which replaces the “Midnight Ride” originally started in 1988, is now held every year in honor of the events founder, Ron Rowe, who dedicated the funds raised to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. Imagine thousands of bikes crossing the Mackinac Bridge in one huge event. Registration includes bridge fare, lunch, event souvenir and Kewadin Casino package. Put this on your schedule for August.
Mighty Mac Bridge Walk
If you’ve been in or around Michigan long enough, chances are you’ve heard of this event. Even our governor makes crossing a priority every Labor Day. Held every year since 1958 this event has grown to welcome over 40,000 people. The walk starts in St. Ignace at 7 am and permits the last walkers no later than 11 am. Buses are available to shuttle your group back over from Mackinaw City, there is a small fee for this but there are no other costs to attend the event.
September tends to be a busy month for the Mackinac Bridge with a different crossing planned every weekend. Pick one that might suit your fancy because it’s highly possible there’s something for everyone.
Owosso Antique Tractor Parade & Show
A weekend full of antique tractors and associated fun events. People come from all over the country for this one, with recent years topping 1,300+ participating tractors. Toddlers to elders and everyone in-between are fascinated with this all-American past time. Plan for it in September.
Semi Truck Show
Loud and colorful displays can be seen crossing the Mackinac Bridge during the “Parade of Lights,” starting at dusk. Begins in St. Ignace, across to and through Mackinaw City then back again. It’s an entire weekend full of fun. Warning: pets and babies who are sensitive to loud noises should be kept at bay. Planned for mid-September every year.
Trek the Mighty Mac
One of the newest of Mackinac Bridge crossings started in 2015, this one with ATV’s (all terrain vehicles). A fast growing sport and recreation in the Upper Peninsula with trails everywhere. Did you know that there are trails that start right outside our door here at Twin Cedars Resort? Plan for a full weekend with a beer tent, prizes, vendors and live music. Please keep in mind that while Michigan does not require helmets on motorcycles, it is the law for ATV’s! Register and plan for this event which is typically held in late September or early October.
Fall Colors Bridge Run
You’ll get some spectacular fall color views as you complete this run. There are certain requirements, like being able to run at least a 12 minute mile in order to participate, so get training and get up here! Click here to register and learn more. This race is held on Saturday of the first full weekend in October.
Snowmobile the Mighty Mac
Making its debut in 2016 with 39 sleds crossing the first year, and because of our love of snow and motor sports, it’s expected to continue to grow. Keep in mind that your snowmobile must be 25 years or older to participate in this vintage crossing, so dig it out and show it off. This event is held in December, but don’t expect there to be snow on the bridge. More details coming soon.
With events changing or being added every year we will work on keeping this information as up to date as possible. If you find something that’s inaccurate or have come across a Mackinac Bridge crossing event that isn’t included, please feel free to comment below or send us an email.
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Want some Mackinac Bridge history and fun facts? Go here…
Related posts:
Things to do in Michigan: Eastern U.P. Edition
Michigan’s Upper Peninsula Bucket List, 50 things to do
7 Rules to Live By when visiting Mackinac Island: being a fudgie
Top 5 Cabin Getaway Essentials: U.P vacation
When will the antique tractor event happen in 2018? I missed it this year.
You’ll want to check back at the link but it’s usually the weekend after Labor Day. Hope you can make it then 🙂