Spectator Information

Get ready — there is nothing like seeing hundreds of antique tractors roll through town and across the Mackinac Bridge. The energy. The sound. The tradition. We’re excited to have you join us as a spectator for this unforgettable event!

Please note: All information below is subject to change due to weather, construction, or local authority decisions.

If you have additional questions, please contact us.

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🕗 When Does It Start?

Tractors leave the south staging area (Mackinaw City side) between 8:30–8:45 AM on event day.

🌉 Is the Bridge Closed?

The bridge has never been shut down for the event.

Tractors travel in the outside northbound lane while regular traffic continues as normal.

For official bridge questions, contact the Mackinac Bridge Authority at (906) 643-7600.

🗺 Parade Route

Mackinaw City (Some parade through downtown Mackinaw City first)

Central Avenue
Under the bridge
Left on Nicolet Street
Onto the bridge

St. Ignace

First exit (US-2)
Right at the stop sign
Through downtown
Ending at Little Bear Arena

👀 See the Tractors Before the Parade

📍 Gravel Pit Staging Area (2 miles west of Mackinaw City on Central Ave)

🕚 Public Viewing Hours:

Thursday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Friday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Important:

DO NOT park on Central Avenue.
Drive into the gravel pit and check in with staff.
You’ll be directed to designated spectator parking in the back.

🚍 People mover shuttle onsite
🎪 Large white information tent
👕 Merchandise available
🌮 Food vendors onsite

📍 Where to Watch During the Parade

Mackinaw City
Spectators may sit along the parade route.

Bridge View (St. Ignace Side)d
Viewing may be available near the Bridge Authority Welcome Center. This is dependent upon availability and Bridge Authority approval. For questions, please contact the Mackinac Bridge Authority at (906) 643-7600.

Downtown St. Ignace
Viewing stretches from Family Dollar to NAPA downtown. The marina is also a great viewing location (limited parking).

🏟 Weekend Events – At Little Bear Arena

📍 Little Bear Arena – Downtown St. Ignace

🚗 Visitor parking is available across the street.
If that lot is full, additional parking is available downtown.

Do NOT park on Ojibwa Trail, the Little Bear parking lot, or anywhere marked off. Your vehicle will be towed at your expense.

Saturday Highlights

🚜 Tractor Games & Kid’s Pedal Pull

11:00 AM – 4:00 PM (approx.)
Free to watch – look for the bleachers!

💪 Annual Tug of War

4:30 PM (approx.)

🍰 Cake & Ice Cream Social

5:00 – 5:30 PM (approx.) inside the building

🌮 Food vendors onsite Saturday

An updated and confirmed 2026 schedule will be available around June. Check back often for updates!