First Time Crossing? We've Got You Covered

If this is your first time joining us for the Mackinac Bridge Antique Tractor Crossing, you’re in the right place. We know there’s a lot to take in — but once you understand how the weekend flows, it’s simple, organized, and incredibly fun.

This page will walk you through what to expect, when to arrive, and how everything works — step by step — so you can feel confident and ready to enjoy the experience.

We do this every year and we're here to help! If you have any questions, click here for contact information.

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🚜 Step 1: Make Sure You’re Eligible

Read the rules and confirm your tractor qualifies
Be a member of a participating club
Drivers must be 18+ (buddy riders 16+, pre-approved)
Not in a club yet? We’ll help connect you with one.

📝 Step 2: Register

🗓 Online registration opens April 1
Deadline: August 15
Cap: 1,250 tractors
First-come, first-served, first approved registration
You are officially registered only when we receive:

✔ Completed entry form
✔ Payment submitted at the same time
✔ Entry form verified as complete

📍 Step 3: Arrive & Get Settled

Staging Area: West of Mackinaw City (Exit 339 off I-75)

When you arrive:

A volunteer will greet you
You’ll receive your event book and a staging map
You’ll be directed where to unload and park
Security is onsite, and our team is available to assist throughout the weekend.
Make sure you know the name of your club or your club rep when pulling in

🌉 Step 4: Crossing Morning

Be at your tractor no later than 7:30 AM
Entry magnets are distributed by your club representative
Shut down all tractors by 7:45 AM for the Opening Ceremony (near the fire truck)
The ceremony includes:

🇺🇸 Flag Raising
🎵 National Anthem
Brief opening remarks

After crossing the Bridge, tractors parade through St. Ignace and park at Little Bear East Arena for the weekend.

📌 Additional Information

This newly redesigned website has everything you need to plan your weekend. Be sure to explore:

Bussing Information (Saturday Morning Transportation)

Event Schedule

Tractor Games (Saturday after the Crossing)

Food Vendors

Spectator Information

Family & Kids Information

Meet Our Team

Contact Information

We’re here to help every step of the way — click Contact Information above for assistance.

Please check the site often, as new information will continue to be added from February through June.

💛 We can’t wait to welcome you to your first Crossing

— It's more than an event, it’s a tradition.