Historic and iconic Fort Mackinac will be decked out in patriotic finery with banners, flags and bunting for A Star Spangled Fourth of July, this July 4, with special programs beginning at 3:00 p.m.
It will be an 1880s Independence Day, complete with a band, games on the parade ground such as relay races, tug-of-war, and catch, the raising of the colors, playing of “Hail, Columbia,” a reading of the Declaration of Independence, and toasts.
After the games and reading of the Declaration, the ‘fireworks’ begin. There will be a 38-gun salute, honoring the 1880s states of the union (be ready for Michigan!), followed by the finale of a cannon salute in honor of the holiday.
“Fort Mackinac is the perfect venue for celebrating the 4th of July,” said Steve Brisson, Mackinac State Historic Parks Director. “This is one of the most exciting days to visit the fort during the summer. The 4th of July events allow guests to participate in activities that really tie into the history and meaning of Independence Day.”
The Tea Room Restaurant, operated by Grand Hotel, will be open throughout the day, with lunch served from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Snacks and beverages will be available until 7:00 p.m.
All special programming is included with regular admission to Fort Mackinac ($17/adults, $10.25/child (5-12), and free for kids under 5). Guests are welcome to come back to Fort Mackinac starting at 9:00 p.m. to watch fireworks.
Funding for many Mackinac State Historic Parks programs comes from Mackinac Associates, friends preserving and sharing Mackinac’s heritage. Prizes during the kids’ games on the Parade Ground provided by Ryba’s Fudge Shops Mackinac Island.
More information can be found at mackinacparks.com. Additional and higher-res photos are available upon request. A downloadable version of this release can be found here.
