Spend New Year's on Mackinac Island

Photo: Lansing State Journal

Mackinac Island has announced a wide range of upcoming New Years' Eve events and traditions for visitors searching for a unique, old-fashioned holiday experience in the quaint island community.

Mackinac Island welcomes tourists to their annual New Year’s festivities featuring live music and hayrides. Visitors to the resort island, located in Lake Huron’s Straits of Mackinac, can also participate in outdoor recreational activities or explore the traditions that make Mackinac Island unique. The area is famous for its peaceful downtown, historical sites, cultural events, horse-drawn transportation along with miles of finely groomed cross country ski trails.

"Our winter season visitors find their activities are not limited to just the New Year's Eve celebrations in the downtown area," explained Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau Assistant Director Alison Abraham. "Mackinac Island offers wonderful opportunities for anyone searching for a unique getaway."

Visitors travel to Mackinac Island via the Arnold Line Ferry, or by plane if Lake Huron is frozen as the winter season progresses. While at Mackinac, visitors can walk, snowshoe or take advantage of the island's horse-drawn taxi service. Revelers may also enjoy one of the four different New Year's Eve hayrides offered throughout the morning and day, which require a reservation.

Island restaurants are offering special holiday menus and live entertainment. The Mustang Lounge is offering a special menu, and DJ Brevin will perform starting at 10 p.m. Cawthorne's Village Inn will feature a special evening menu, drink specials with a champagne toast and live music by Brian Thomas. Reservations are suggested.

Sleeping accommodations during New Year’s is limited to Bogan Lane Inn, Cottage Inn, Harbor Place Studio Suites, Lilac Tree Suites and Spa and the Pontiac Lodge and Village Inn Suites. Cottage Inn and Lilac Tree Suites and Spa are open for lodging until Jan. 3.

Those interested in visiting Mackinac Island this holiday season may visit the Mackinac Island Tourism website at http://www.mackinacisland.org or contact a staff member at (906) 847-3783. The bureau is located at 7274 Main Street in Mackinac Island, Michigan 49757.

Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau is available to answer any questions about visiting the community. Located in Lake Huron, Mackinac Island is famous for its local fudge, quaint small town community environment and numerous cultural events. Open to the public year-round, this island resort is ideal for those who desire fine dining, luxurious lodging, beautiful coastal views, outdoor sports, and a place suspended in a simpler, forgotten time.