Events & Lecture Series
Looking for free family activities in Mackinaw City? Want to learn about local history? Look no further.
The Mackinaw Area Historical Society (MAHS) is proud to offer a vibrant lineup of free events and lectures that bring history to life for families and visitors in Mackinaw City. From engaging guest speakers and local historians to hands-on programs and seasonal celebrations, MAHS events create welcoming spaces where curiosity is encouraged and learning is shared across generations.
2026 Schedule
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Annual Meeting & October Lecture Series | About Mackinaw Area Schools
Oct 12 Meeting 6:00-7:00PM and Lecture 7:00-8:00PM | MAPL
Come for the annual meeting, stay for the lecture. Join Bill Alexander, retired teacher, principal, and acting superintendent, as he presents the history of the Village Of Mackinaw city schools.
Speaker: Bill Alexander
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May Woods Guided Hike | Take a Friend on a Hike Day
Oct 24 10:00AM | May Woods
Explore. Discover. Connect. Join us for Take a Friend on Hike Day. Whether you often enjoy the trails or haven’t had the courage to head out on your own…all are welcome! It's a perfect outing for families, friends, and nature lovers of all ages.
Hiking Lead: TBD
Meeting Location: Nature Center
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November Lecture Series | Mackinaw City American Legion Post 159
Nov 9 7:00-8:00PM | MAPL
Join us to learn about Mackinaw City’s American Legion Post 159. The American Legion Post 159 stands for “Veterans serving Veterans and their families.” Learn how they’ve supported the unique needs of the community here in Mackinaw City.
Speakers: Mike & Tom
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May Woods Guided Hike | Pre-National Hike Day Event
Nov 14 10:00AM | May Woods
Since not everyone can head off mid-day on a Tuesday afternoon, we’re celebrating early! Join us for a National Hike Day Celebration. Whether you often enjoy the trails or haven’t had the courage to head out on your own…all are welcome!
Hiking Lead: TBD
Meeting Location: Nature Center
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Annual Christmas in the Village Event
Dec 5 2:00-4:00PM | Heritage Chapel
Step back in time and experience the warmth and wonder of a 19th-century Christmas. The Village will come alive with festive spirit — crackling fires in period hearths and docents dressed in traditional attire. Free family event.
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May Woods Guided Hike | Holiday Hike
Dec 19 10:00AM | May Woods
Grab your hiking boots, gloves and maybe even a Santa Hat…it’s time for the May Woods Holiday Hike! This stroll through May Woods will allow you to delight in nature’s finest winter show.
Hiking Lead: TBD
Meeting Location: Nature Center
Have a programming idea?
Have a topic you’d love to learn about? A type of hike you’d like to take? Or…would you like to become a guest lecturer or hiking lead? We’d love to hear from you.
The Lecture Venue: Mackinaw Area Public Library (MAPL)
Our lecture series is brought to you free of charge, thanks in part to, the Mackinaw Area Public Library (MAPL).
MAPL Address: 117 S Main St, Mackinaw, IL 61755, United States
Lectures are hosted in the back room; accessed after hours through the rear entrance. Questions? Contact Us.
Missed An Event ?
All the Mackinaw Area History, all whenever is convenient for you. Our YouTube Channel allows you to time travel back and attend events you missed. Happy viewing!
Attend Virtually
Interested in attending the lecture series but can’t get there in person? No, problem. We might be a historical society but we’ve embraced the digital age. Join us on Zoom.
Meeting ID: 879 6673 5454
Passcode: mahsevent