While the Mackinac Island Lilac Festival takes place in June, preparations for the annual celebration are happening all the time. Whether you plan to be on the island when the sweet-scented flowers are in bloom or not, you can stay up to date on all of this year’s activities by signing up for the Mackinac Island eNewsletter and following the Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau on social media.
Here’s a look at a few of the many beloved aspects of the festival that are fun to stay on top of:
Mackinac Island Lilac Festival Poster Contest
Each year, the festival holds a public competition to design a poster promoting the event. Artist submissions are due early in the year, with jury selections of the top 20 entries announced in late winter.
The winning poster gets showcased once Mackinac Island’s visitor season begins in May. Then, during the festival itself, both fans visiting the island and those from afar can vote for a People’s Choice winner from among the 20 finalists.
Get all the details on the Mackinac Island Lilac Festival Poster Contest
Mackinac Island Lilac Festival Grand Parade
On the final Sunday afternoon of the 10-day festival, a big parade marches down Main Street with horse-drawn floats, bands and the lovely Lilac Queen and Court. You could be in the parade, too!
Businesses and groups from outside Mackinac Island are welcome to join the fun. Applications typically come available early in the year. There is no cost.
Learn more about the Mackinac Island Lilac Festival Grand Parade
Lilac Festival Vintage Bicycle Rally
In tune with the car-free character of Mackinac Island, the Lilac Festival includes a Vintage Bicycle Rally on the Rock that invites people to showcase their classic wheels. It’s free to show up with your bike for a meet and greet in Marquette Park and to go on a casual pedal all the way around the island.
If your ride is from 1989 or earlier, you could win a Best of Show award!
See when this year’s Vintage Bicycle Rally is planned
What Else To Know About The Mackinac Island Lilac Festival
Got more questions? Check out the answers to these Mackinac Island Lilac Festival FAQs about dates, the festival’s annual theme and the lilacs themselves. The theme for the 2025 festival: Mackinac Island is COOL!
Plus, see this year’s Mackinac Island Lilac Festival schedule of events including the 10K Run/Walk, lilac tours, planting seminars, live music, the Michigan Cornhole Tournament and so much more!
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