4th of July on Mackinac Island: Events, Fireworks, and Family Fun -

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There’s something pretty magical about spending the 4th of July on an island where horse-drawn carriages rule the roads, flags wave proudly over historic buildings, and fireworks light up the sky over Lake Huron. Mackinac Island’s Independence Day celebration blends good old-fashioned fun with a touch of island charm—and in true Mackinac fashion, they go all out.

If you’re planning a trip for July 4th, here’s everything you can expect for 2025—plus a brand-new event that’s making its debut this year!

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Things to Do on Mackinac Island 4th of July (2025 Edition)

Thursday, July 3: Skip the Straits (NEW for 2025!)

Ready to make island history? Mackinac Island is teaming up with Waboba for a brand-new event that’s just as fun as it is ambitious.

The first-ever “Skip the Straits” kicks off at 1:00 p.m. at Hotel Iroquois, where participants will attempt to pass a Waboba Moon Ball around the entire island—yes, the entire island! The relay ends at Mission Point Resort around 3:00 p.m. where there will be a celebratory afterparty.

If you’re on the island on July 3rd, this is a can’t-miss experience. Sign up here and be part of a wacky, wonderful slice of island history.

P.S. If you do it, let us know—we’d love to hear how it goes!

Friday, July 4: The 57th Annual W.T. Rabe Stone Skipping Competition

Stone Skipping on Mackinac Island (Photo Courtesy of Mackinac Island Tourism)

It’s not officially the 4th of July on Mackinac Island until the rocks start flying.

Taking place at Windermere Point, the W.T. Rabe Stone Skipping Competition is the oldest consecutively held stone skipping contest in the world. This year marks its 57th anniversary, and trust me—this is one of those events you don’t realize you need to see until you do.

You’ll see everything from world record holders to first-time throwers, and the commentary alone is worth showing up for. The setting—waves crashing, flags waving, and lots of cheering—makes it a Fourth of July memory you won’t forget.

Registration opens at 9:00 a.m.

Divisions include:

Gerplunking Division (ages 5 & under)

Pebbles Division (ages 6-12)

Open Division (ages 13 & up)

Bring your best flat rock… or just show up and enjoy the show.

Don’t forget to check out our Mackinac Island Travel Guide—packed with insider tips, must-see spots, itinerary suggestions, and everything you need to make your visit unforgettable. It’s the perfect companion for first-timers and returning visitors alike!

Grab your copy here!

Family Games at Windermere Point (1:00 – 3:00 p.m.)

After the skipping winds down, the fun keeps going with old-fashioned carnival games and water bounce houses at Windermere Point. It’s a great way to cool off and let the kids (or let’s be honest—everyone) burn off some excitement before the evening festivities.

A Star-Spangled Fourth at Fort Mackinac (3:30 p.m. onward)

Parade Grounds of Fort Mackinac

Want to celebrate the 4th like it’s 1885? Head to Fort Mackinac, where the red, white, and historically accurate festivities include:

Reading of the Declaration of Independence and the raising of the colors

A 38-gun salute—one for each U.S. state in 1816 (when the fort was in operation)

Children’s games on the parade grounds starting at 3:30 p.m including catch, baseball, foot races and sack races

Special programming starting at 4:00 p.m.

It’s a meaningful and educational way to step back in time and appreciate the day’s significance in a setting that brings history to life. You can find more info about the event here.

*All special programming is included with regular admission to Fort Mackinac.

Please keep in mind that the horse-drawn carriage taxis suspend service on July 4th from 9pm until the fireworks are finished.

TWO Fireworks Shows Light Up the Island (10:00 p.m.)

Photo Courtesy of Sara Wright

Mackinac Island doesn’t just do fireworks—it does two of them.

Mackinac Island Fireworks Schedule

Starting around 10:00 p.m., you’ll be able to catch not one, but two dazzling fireworks displays, launched simultaneously from separate barges:

One barge is near the Mackinac State Harbor, perfect for viewing from Windermere Point to Mission Point.

The second is off the west side of the island, with prime views along the boardwalk and Grand Hotel area.

Grab a blanket, find a spot, and settle in for a magical island-style finale to your 4th of July.

Watch the Fireworks from the Water with Shepler’s 4th of July Cruise

Looking for an unforgettable way to watch the fireworks? Shepler’s Ferry offers a special 4th of July Fireworks Cruise that lets you enjoy the show from out on the water—right in the heart of the Straits of Mackinac.

Cruises depart from both Mackinaw City and St. Ignace, and offer incredible views of the fireworks bursting over Lake Huron, the Mackinac Bridge, and the island itself. Bring a blanket, dress in layers, and get ready for one of the most unique and scenic Independence Day celebrations you’ll ever experience.

*This cruise does sell out, so be sure to book early. Get all the details and reserve your spot here.

Final Tips:

Bring layers—it can cool down quite a bit at night by the water.
Bring a flashlight if you’re walking back from fireworks in the dark.
If you’re on the island July 3rd, don’t miss the Waboba “Skip the Straits” event!

If you’re unsure what to pack for your Mackinac Island vacation, check out our “What to pack” post with all sorts of helpful suggestions.

Whether you’re into history, family fun, or just want a front-row seat to a fireworks show over Lake Huron, Mackinac Island knows how to throw an unforgettable 4th of July. 🇺🇸

Have you spent the 4th on Mackinac before? Tell us your favorite memory in the comments below—we’d love to hear it!