Mackinac Island is rich with history. The Mackinac Island Lilac Festival originated in 1949 and we’re proudly celebrating its 69th year. Mackinac Island’s Lilac Festival is a 10 – day celebration, the first and largest summer event on the island going on from June 9th – 18th and this year promises to be one of the best ever! The Lilac Festival is always scheduled for the week that Mackinac Island lilacs are in full bloom with beautiful white and purple flowers flooding the air with their beautiful aroma and are a sight to behold.

Speaking of history, the Lilac Tree Suites & Spa opened its doors in 1991 and we’re celebrating our 26th year. We’re proud that our name honors Mackinac’s beautiful lilacs. It’s our way of keeping the lilac name fresh in people’s hearts and minds and having lilacs in our lobby makes it even more special.

So what will you do during this year’s Lilac Festival? Here are a few of the Featured Events that you’ll love.

Lilac Festival 10 K * Run / Walk:
It’s a wonderful Springtime race where hundreds travel to the island to be a part of this annual race. It’s a great time and you can take in the beautiful sights and after the race, you can soothe your muscles at The Lilac Tree Spa. If your preference is to watch the 10K, the Lilac Tree Suites & Spa has the best views from our balconies as the racers trek down Main Street. It’s a win-win!

Lilac Festival Queen and Court Coronation:
The Lilac Queen is selected by the students and classmates at Mackinac Island’s Public School. It honors the student who has dedicated their time to their classmates plus community events throughout the year. It’s a great way to support the great Mackinac Island Community!

A Taste of Mackinac:
You’ll enjoy culinary favorites, personally served by the chefs from the Island’s restaurants on the lawn of the Harbour View Inn. The Pink Pony is also having a special Michigan Beer Tasting and Fudge sampling so make sure you stop by for Yachts and Yachts of fun!

The Lilac Festival Grand Parade:
The parade is a great way to wrap up the Lilac Festival and this year’s theme is “Mackinac Island.” The Pink Pony will have a float in the parade again with much to live up to after winning a prize last year! You can watch from Main Street or sit outside on your private patio and watch the parade go by. The Lilac Tree Suites & Spa has the best views in town!

The Lilac Festival will also have walking tours with Lilac experts, local art exhibits, dancing in the streets, music concerts, sailing and horse drawn carriage tours, and so much more! If you’ve never been to the Lilac Festival, it’s time to experience the beauty of Mackinac like never before. Whether it’s the Lilac Festival or any of the great events going on as our 2017 season unfolds, make your reservations for your great get-away on Mackinac Island. 2017 is going to be a fantastic season. We have a suite with your name on it.

George Piliouras for The Lilac Tree Suites & Spa