Mackinac Island Lilac Festival

Mackinac Island Lilac Festival Art Print Call for Entries

2011-12-28T09:49:00.000-08:00

Tohonor the bicentennial of the War of 1812, we have selected Wawashkamo GolfCourse as the theme for this year’s Mackinac Island Lilac Festival art print.Wawashkamo was formerly a battleground during the War of 1812 and as such isnow a National Historic Landmark. Art work may be of entire or partial elementsof the golf course and or club house and must include lilacs. Any otherelements will be at the creative discretion of the artist.

The details of the competition may be downloaded here for yourconsideration. There are many images of Wawashkamo online via Flickr and otherphoto sharing sites. The artist reserves all copyright to their work but bysubmitting work, the winning artist agrees to license the work for no fee toGreat Turtle Festivals for retail sale to benefit the festival. The winningartist will also receive an overnight stay on the Island, a reception duringthe festival and 100 copies of the art print to sell or distribute themselves.

William Gardiner-Wawashkamo
Mackinac State Historic Parks Archives

Foronline resources about Wawashkamo, please visit the following links:

www.wawashkamo.com

www.islandbookstore.com/product/walk-crooked-trail

www.flickr.com/search/?q=wawashkamo&f=hp

wargamingthewarof1812.blogspot.com/p/order-of-battle-mackinaw-island.html

Theartwork will be selected on St. Patrick's Day and announced the following day.

Ifyou are not an painter but you know someone who is and they may have interest, pleaseforward this blog post.

Thank you.

Chef George Vutetakis Presents Vegetarian Traditions during Lilac Festival

2011-06-07T06:24:00.000-07:00

Chef George Vutetakis Presents A Vegetarian Cooking Demonstration and Tasting During Mackinac Island's Lilac Festival

Mackinac Island, MI-Chef George Vutetakis will be featured in a cooking demonstration and tasting from his new cookbook Vegetarian Traditions during the 62 Annual Mackinac Island Lilac Festival at the Mackinac Island Community Hall from 11am-1pm, Saturday, June 11, 2011. Chef George learned “the language of food” as a young boy in his Greek grandmother’s kitchen. It was there that he was first exposed to the value of cultural traditions in cooking. His discoveries continued with travels to India, where he was taught philosophic and traditional food preparation methods. Today, using time-honored techniques as his guide, he weaves the Mediterranean and Indian flavors of his youth into many of his extraordinary dishes.

His reputation as a leader in the creation of delicious, healthy and innovative vegetarian cuisine using fresh, unadulterated ingredients flourished as chef and owner of the award winning Inn Season Cafe in Royal Oak, Michigan. After nearly two decades, Chef George sold the restaurant and began writing and teaching. He shares his vast food knowledge and delicious vegan recipes on his popular blog www.thevegetarianguy.com.

He currently lives in San Diego and, as he has always done, has immersed himself in the community, working with the local organic farmers, whom he claims are the real heroes behind the creation of his world-class, sustainable, healthy and exceptional cuisine.

Tickets are just $10 and are available from the Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau, 7274 Main, Mackinac Island, MI 49757, by phone from (800) 4-Lilacs and at the door.

Vegetarian Traditions Cookbook Testimonials from George Vutetakis on Vimeo.

62nd Annual Mackinac Island Lilac Festival Events Schedule

2011-05-04T10:47:00.000-07:00

62nd Annual Mackinac Island Lilac Festival Events Schedule
June 10-19, 2011
while unlikely, events subject to change

Ongoing:
Richard Wolfgang Exhibition “A Life of Painting”–The works of Island painter Richard Wolfgang will be featured in this retrospective show. Richard and Jane Manoogian Mackinac Island Art Museum, $5 adults, $3.50 youth 5-17, 4 & under free

8am Sunrise Legends & Lore Trek - Island coach, Dr. Mary Patay will ensure you stay in shape while exploring the Island during this early morning trek. $10, meets at Tourism Bureau.

12pm-2pm Grand Luncheon Buffet - The legendary Grand Luncheon Buffet is a distinct highlight of the Island. It features hot and cold entrees, seafood, salad, pastries and more. $40 per person, no reservations or dress code necessary.

3:30pm-5pm Grand Afternoon Tea - Enjoy tea, sherry and champagne, petite finger sandwiches, fresh-baked scones and an array of pastries, accompanied by a chamber music recital. $25, no reservations necessary or dress code during the day.

9:00pm Stu Stuart Stand Up Comedy Show - It’s a hilarious look at Mackinac and life in general in this one-hour show. $15, $12.50 Seniors, Students & Military. Lilac Tree Hotel

9:30-11:30pm Alex Graham & Grand Hotel Orchestra - Come hear what all the fuss is about as Graham and company take you on a musical journey. Grand Hotel (dress code: coat and tie for gentlemen, dresses or pantsuits for ladies after 6:30pm

10pm Downtown Entertainment - Musicians and DJs take over the stages in our downtown pubs.

Friday, June 10, 2011
11am-3pm Go Lakers! - To help raise funds for the Mackinac
Island Lakers sports programs, the school has set up a great fundraiser of all things wearable to show your team spirit. Mackinac Island Public School

1pm-5pm Lilac Festival Wine and Beer Tasting - Michigan’s own Black Star Farms and Arbor Brewing Company feature the Mackinac Island Lilac Festival Signature Wines & fresh Blackberry Blonde Ale respectively, created especially for the festival. Bistro on the Greens at Mission Point

4pm Architectural Walking Tour - Learn the who, what, where, when and why of many downtown buildings. Tix $10, meets at Tourism Bureau.

6pm Cannonball BBQ Hayride - Take a meandering hayride from downtown to British Landing for a relaxed dinner on the shoreline at the Cannonball, a tradition since 1905. For pricing and reservations: (906) 847-0932

8pm Movies at the Mission - First run films at historic Mission Point Theatre. Tix at the door.

Saturday, June 11, 2011
9:30am Lilac Festival 10K - This paved road race is the first big event of the festival. $25 per person, Windermere Point - to register online, visit www.runmackinac.com

11:00am Lil Lilac Run/Walk - A fabulous run/walk in the school yard. $10 per person, Mackinac Island Schoolyard - to register online, visit www.runmackinac.com

11am-3pm Go Lakers! - To help raise funds for the Mackinac Island Lakers sports programs, the school has set up a great fundraiser of all things wearable to show your team spirit. Mackinac Island Public School.

11pm-1pm-Vegetarian Traditions - Chef George Vutatikis is a leader in the creation of delicious, healthy and innovative vegetarian cuisine. This demonstration and tasting will feature recipes from his acclaimed cookbook. Mackinac Island Community Hall, $10, tix at Tourism Bureau and at the door.

11-4pm Mackinac Island Public Library Annual Book Sale - Stop in and pick up some books to support our library.

1pm-5pm Lilac Festival Wine and Beer Tasting - Michigan’s own Black Star Farms and Arbor Brewing Company will feature the Mackinac Island Lilac Festival Signature Wines & fresh Blackberry Blonde Ale respectively, created especially for the festival. Bistro on the Greens at Mission Point

4:30pm Alex Graham Quartet - A unique opportunity to hear Grand Hotel Musical Director Alex Graham with his jazz quartet in an open air pre-coronation concert. Windermere Point

5:30pm Coronation of the Lilac Festival Queen - We welcome the festival queen & her court. Windermere Point.

6pm Cannonball BBQ Hayride - Take a meandering hayride from downtown to British Landing for a relaxed dinner on the shoreline at the Cannonball, a tradition since 1905. For pricing and reservations: (906) 847-0932

7:30-9:30pm Dancing’ in the Streets - Learn Country Line Dancing with the West Michigan Bootscooters • Market Street at the Stuart House on Market Street

8pm Movies at the Mission - First run films at Mission Point Theatre. Tix at Mission Point Activities Center and at the door.

Sunday, June 12, 2011
11am-3pm Go Lakers! - To help raise funds for the Mackinac Island Lakers sports programs, the school has set up a great fundraiser of all things wearable to show your team spirit. Mackinac Island Public School

12pm Walk and Talk with Lilacs - Learn about Mackinac Island’s lilacs and how to care for yours with lilac curator and expert Jeff Young. Meets at the Tourism Bureau.

2pm-5pm Lilac Festival Wine and Beer Tasting - Michigan’s own Black Star Farms and Arbor Brewing Company will feature the Mackinac Island Lilac Festival Signature Wines & fresh Blackberry Blonde Ale respectively, created especially for the festival. Goodfellow’s Italian Chophouse at Lake View Hotel.

3pm Walk and Talk with Lilacs - Learn about Mackinac’s lilacs and how to care for yours with Jeff Young. Presented by the Mackinac Island Community Foundation. Tourism Bureau

3pm Learning to Grow - A special program for children of all ages to learn about planting and caring for lilacs with specialist Jan Young at Ste Anne’s Churchyard. Presented by the Mackinac Island Community Foundation.

4pm Architectural Walking Tour - Learn the who, what, where, when and why of many downtown buildings. Tix $10, meets at Tourism Bureau

6:30pm-8pm Richard Wolfgang Exhibition “A Life of Painting” Gala Opening – From 1994-2007, one of Wolfgang’s paintings were selected and reproduced for the official Mackinac Island Lilac Festival poster. Music and light refreshments, Richard and Jane Manoogian Mackinac Island Art Museum.

Monday, June 13, 2011
10am Walk and Talk with Lilacs - Learn about Mackinac Island’s lilacs and how to care for yours with lilac curator and expert Jeff Young. Meets at the Tourism Bureau.

1pm Architectural Walking Tour - Learn the who, what, where, when and why of many downtown buildings. Tix $10, meets at Tourism Bureau.

3pm Walk and Talk with Lilacs - Learn about Mackinac’s lilacs and how to care for yours with Jeff Young. Presented by the Mackinac Island Community Foundation. Tourism Bureau

3pm Learning to Grow - A special program for children of all ages to learn about planting and caring for lilacs with specialist Jan Young at Ste Anne’s Churchyard. Presented by the Mackinac Island Community Foundation.

5:30pm Lilac Festival Golf Tournament - Enjoy golf on The Jewel at Grand Hotel during this festival fund-raiser -No worries if you are solo, Jason at the Pro Shop will pair you up with others to create a great team. $50 per person includes cart, club rentals available (906) 847-3331 to register (ask for the Pro Shop)

7pm-9pm Lilac Festival Street Hockey Tournament - Islander & hockey fan Jamie Bynoe rallies all to join in this great street hockey tourney. Stuart House.

Tuesday, June 14, 2011
10am Grand Hotel History Lecture - This is a must do event with hotel historian Bob Tagatz, Grand Hotel Included with $10 hotel admission.

10am Walk and Talk with Lilacs - Learn about Mackinac’s lilacs and how to care for yours with Jeff Young. Presented by the Mackinac Island Community Foundation. Meets at Tourism Bureau

12pm South of Superior Author Luncheon - Join Grand Marias author Ellen Airgood as she shares her debut novel South of Superior. Carriage House Dining Room, $25, reserve seating at Island Bookstore: (906) 847-6202

2pm Nature Tour with naturalist Trish Martin - Trish writes the nature column for the Town Crier and knows so much about the flora and fauna of Mackinac Island, luckily she is willing to share her knowledge. Wear good walking shoes. Bogan Lane Inn

3pm Walk and Talk with Lilacs - Learn about Mackinac’s lilacs and how to care for yours with Jeff Young. Presented by the Mackinac Island Community Foundation. Tourism Bureau

3pm Learning to Grow - A special program for children of all ages to learn about planting and caring for lilacs with specialist Jan Young. Ste Anne’s Churchyard. Presented by the Mackinac Island Community Foundation.

4pm Architectural Walking Tour - Learn the who, what, where, when and why of the Island’s buildings. Tix $10, Tourism Bureau.

6:30pm Lion’s Club Bingo - In 1917 Chicago businessman Melvin Jones suggested civic groups ban together to make better communities all over the world and to make the world a better place. Community Hall, 18 & over only

9pm Jazz & Wine Night with the Alex Graham Quartet - Spend an evening enjoying hot jazz in a cool setting with Grand Hotel musical director Alex Graham and some of the best jazz musicians on the planet. Gate House.

Wednesday, June 15, 2011
9:30am-11:30am Governor’s Summer Residence Tour - The Lawrence A. Young cottage is a Shingle Style Victorian Era Cottage overlooking the lake and was donated to the state of Michigan for its Governors. Free, Adjacent to Fort Mackinac. For a horse drawn taxi, call (906) 847-3323

10am Walk and Talk with Lilacs - Learn about Mackinac’s lilacs and how to care for yours with Jeff Young. Presented by the Mackinac Island Community Foundation. Tourism Bureau.

12pm Grand Hotel Garden Tour - Grand Hotel Gardens - Learn about the Grand Hotel’s landscaping style and how they cultivate on a massive scale with beds filled with spring bulbs, annuals, perennials, wildflowers and more. $10, Garden Entrance

1pm Mount Pleasant High School Choir Concert - A great concert of classic and modern choral music, Historic Ste Anne’s Church.

2pm-4pm Lilac Festival Wine Tasting - The best thing to do to learn about wine is to introduce your palette to different types at this tasting at the Yankee Rebel Tavern. $10 per person

3pm Walk and Talk with Lilacs - Learn about Mackinac’s lilacs and how to care for yours with Jeff Young. Presented by the Mackinac Island Community Foundation. Tourism Bureau

3pm Learning to Grow - A special program for children of all ages to learn about planting and caring for lilacs with specialist Jan Young. Ste Anne’s Churchyard. Presented by the Mackinac Island Community Foundation.

4pm Irish Ceili Dance Session - All are invited to learn some new dance steps and more about Irish culture with Ardan Academy of Irish Dance. Winderemere Point.

5pm History Tour with Dan Seely - Island historian and retired history teacher from Mackinac Island Public School, Dan Seely shares the who, what, where and when of Mackinac Island. $10 per person meets at Windermere Hotel.

8pm Sunset Cruise on the Ugly Anne - This retired deep-water fishing/lobster boat from Maine has found a new home in the straits of Mackinac. Enjoy a great cruise with Capt. West & Crew. $25, Reservations please (231) 436-5094

Thursday, June 16, 2011
11:30am 25th Anniversary: A Taste of Mackinac - Mackinac Island’s most anticipated culinary event Beer, Wine, Soft drinks included (must have proper ID). Harbour View Inn, $15 adults, $10 teens (13-17) $5 children (5-12). Tix at the Tourism Bureau. Tix available online and from the Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau, downtown.

2pm-4pm Lilac Festival Wine Tasting - Take in amazing views of the harbor and enjoy only the best wines at the award winning Hotel Iroquois’ Carriage House Dining Room, $10 per person

2pm-4pm Pink Pony Beer Tasting - Journey around the world through beer in 120 minutes. Prices vary, Pink Pony

3pm Walk and Talk with Lilacs - Learn about Mackinac Island’s lilacs and how to care for yours with lilac curator and expert Jeff Young. Meets at the Tourism Bureau. Presented by the Mackinac Island Community Foundation.

3pm Learning to Grow - A special program for children of all ages to learn about planting and caring for lilacs with specialist Jan Young. Ste Anne’s Churchyard. Presented by the Mackinac Island Community Foundation.

5pm History Tour with Dan Seely - Island historian and retired history teacher from Mackinac Island Public School, Dan Seely shares the who, what, where and when of Mackinac Island. $10 per person meets at Windermere Hotel.

Friday, June 17, 2011
11am-3pm Go Lakers! - To help raise funds for the Mackinac Island Lakers sports programs, the school has set up a great fundraiser of all things wearable to show your team spirit. Mackinac Island Public School

10am Walk and Talk with Lilacs - Learn about Mackinac Island’s lilacs and how to care for yours with lilac curator and expert Jeff Young, meets at the Tourism Bureau.

11am Harbor History Cruise - Mackinaw Breeze at Bay View $18 adults $15 children (5-12) Enjoy a cruise from the harbor named after the Commander Sir Frederick Haldimand (August 11, 1718 - June 5, 1791) Mackinac Breeze, Bay View Dock.

1pm-4pm Artful Accessories - The Mackinac Arts Council hosts an outstanding fundraiser to benefit the arts on Mackinac Island feat. B. May Custom Handbags, Tom Davies Eyeware and Mary Ann Archer Jewelry. Carriage House at Hotel Iroquois.

1pm-5pm Lilac Festival Wine and Beer Tasting - Michigan’s own Chateau Fontaine, Arbor Brewing Company and newly openedCheboygan Brewing Company present at Mission Point’s Bistro on the Greens.

3pm Walk and Talk with Lilacs - Learn about Mackinac Island’s lilacs and how to care for yours with lilac curator and expert Jeff Young. Meets at the Tourism Bureau. Presented by the Mackinac Island Community Foundation.

3pm Learning to Grow - A special program for children of all ages to learn about planting and caring for lilacs with specialist Jan Young at Ste Anne’s Churchyard. Presented by the Mackinac Island Community Foundation.

4pm Feast of Epona Lemonade Sale & Stable Tour - Join the Mackinac’s youngest horsemen and women raise funds to benefit their equine programs. Mission Hill Stable

5pm Feast of Epona Blessing of the Animals - Join us as we bless the horses, dogs, turtles and more at this auspicious event. Mission Hill Stable. Presented by the Mackinac Island Horsemen’s Association and the Mackinac Island Dog & Pony Club.

6pm Cannonball BBQ Hayride - Take a meandering hayride from downtown to British Landing for a relaxed dinner on the shoreline at the Cannonball, a tradition since 1905. For pricing and reservations: (906) 847-0932

8pm Movies at the Mission - First run films at historic Mission Point Theatre. Tix at the door.

Saturday, June 18, 2011
11am-3pm Go Lakers! - To help raise funds for the Mackinac Island Lakers sports programs, the school has set up a great fundraiser of all things wearable to show your team spirit. Mackinac Island Public School

10am Walk and Talk with Lilacs - Learn about Mackinac Island’s lilacs and how to care for yours with lilac curator and expert Jeff Young. Meets at the Tourism Bureau. Presented by the Mackinac Island Community Foundation.

11am-12:30pm Party with your Pooch - Join together before the Epona & Barkus Parade at this pet friendly restaurant for great food, libations and such. Mary’s Bistro. Presented by the Mackinac Island Dog & Pony Club

1pm Epona & Barkus Parade - This zany parade is a blast and this season’s theme is Classic Board Games so come join in or watch the parade of canines dressed to the hilt.... starts on the boardwalk from the school to Windermere Point. Presented by the Mackinac Island Dog & Pony Club.

1:30pm Mackinac Island Dog & Pony Show - Like the days of yore when small traveling circuses would stop through rural America and put on a show, this one ring trained animal event features Mackinac Island’s Friesian Force!!! Windermere Point. Presented by the Mackinac Island Dog & Pony Club.

1pm-5pm Lilac Festival Wine and Beer Tasting - Michigan’s own Chateau Fontaine, Arbor Brewing Company and newly openedCheboygan Brewing Company present. Bistro on the Greens.

3:00pm Farmington Community Band & Dixieland Band - The FCB is filled with excellent Detroit area musicians under the direction of Maestro Damien Crutcher. Windermere Point

6pm Cannonball BBQ Hayride - Take a meandering hayride from downtown to British Landing for a relaxed dinner on the shoreline at the Cannonball, a tradition since 1905. For pricing and reservations: (906) 847-0932

8pm Movies at the Mission - First run films at historic Mission Point Theatre. Tix at the door.

9:15pm A Grand Evening with Barbara Bailey Hutchison - This Grammy Award winning singer songwriter has appeared at the White House three times, performed across America, Japan and Southeast Asia. Grand Hotel Theatre, free concert, (Dress code required: women in their finest, men in jacket and tie).

Sunday, June 19, 2011
11am-3pm Go Lakers! - To help raise funds for the Mackinac Island Lakers sports programs, the school has set up a great fundraiser of all things wearable to show your team spirit. Mackinac Island Public School

1:30pm Patrick Sinclair Scottish Tattoo - Head to the ramparts of Fort Mackinac as we honor the memory of Fort Commander and Scotsman Patrick Sinclair. Listen to the stirring pipe tunes that over centuries have given courage and inspiration on battle fields in every corner of the globe. Marquette Park

2:30pm Scottville Clown Band - The Scottville Clown Band’s roots date back to the start of the 1900’s when a musical group of merchants began to dress as hillbillies while entertaining at local carnivals. Marquette Park.

4:00pm Lilac Festival Grand Parade presented by Coca Cola - Considered a Local Legacy Event by the United States Library of Congress, this festival finale is led by the family of Don “The Duck” Andress, Carl Andress & Jamie Andress-Islanders and direct descendants of Chief Mackinac.

5:30pm Parade Winners & $10,000 Raffle - This marks the end of the festival where we announce the parade winners and select the raffle winners. $100 raffle tickets are available from the Tourism Bureau. To order tix by phone please call (800) 454-5227

Mackinac Island Lilac Festival Shopping
Lilac Festival Art Print - “A Grand Day” by Harbor Springs
painter Kevin Barton was selected as first place winner of the 62nd Annual Mackinac Island Lilac Festival Art Poster. Barton’s skill, use of color and materials and approach to the subject, the fountain at Grand Hotel’s Tea Garden has created an exciting work of art. Available at select retailers during the festival.

Lilac Plant Sale - Each season, unique varieties of lovely lilacs are available from Weber’s Floral and Gifts on Market Street to take home and plant as living memory of the festival.
Spinning Turtle Pottery - Island potter Jay Barch has created his second collection of vases for the lilac festival and they are available exclusively from Weber’s Floral & Gifts.

Black Star Farms - Award Winning Michigan winery Black Star Farms has created special wines to commemorate the festival: Red House Red, Red House White and Be Dazzled which feature the artwork of festival painters. Available at select restaurants, Michigan Peddler & Doud’s Market

Petit Pois Trunk Show - Viviana Gabeiras was educated at the Louvre Museum and Parsons School in Paris and Parsons School of Design in New York. Her Petit Pois collection presents a fresh approach to contemporary sportswear.

Window Decorating Contest
Be sure to pick up a ballot at the Tourism Bureau and vote for your favorite Lilac Festival window display. Shopkeepers are asked to create displays that follow the festival theme. This year, the theme is Classic Board Games. The winning shops will get the bragging rights and names of voters will be drawn to win a festival poster.

Contact:
Great Turtle Festivals
PO Box 501 | Mackinac Island, MI 49757
www.greatturtlefestivals.org
www.mackinacislandlilacfestival.org
(800) 454-5227

Black Star Farms Artist Series Wine Labels to Commemorate Mackinac Island's Lilac Festival

2011-04-04T13:58:00.000-07:00

Mackinac Island, Mich-Lilac Festival artists Kevin Barton, Noel Skiba and Douglas David's works have been chosen as labels for three Black Star Farms wines to commemorate the 25th Anniversary of "A Taste of Mackinac," the premiere culinary event during the annual Mackinac Island's Lilac Festival.

A Taste of Mackinac was created by Chef Sean O'Dell of the Island House Hotel and restaurateur Patti Ann Moskwa of Horn's Bar & Yankee Rebel Tavern.The event started small and today, it is the most well attended ticketed event during the festival. Chef O'Dell's idea was to bring all the chefs together for an afternoon to show off their skills and as a way to build camaraderie, while Patti Ann Moskwa felt it was a great way to introduce travelers to the varied restaurant menus on the Island.

Kevin Barton | A Grand Spring | Oil on Mahogany Board

This season, festival director Mary McGuire Slevin shard "After 25 years, we felt it was time to really commemorate this great food event with wine. We approached Black Star Farms and they agreed. We also felt the first, second and third place art poster submissions should be used as an artist series for the labels. Luckily, Black Star Farms felt the same way." The wines will be available in June for the big event on June 16, 2011 and will also be available at on the Island at Doud's Market, Michigan Peddler and Mackinac Island restaurants and pubs prior to the big event.

First place was taken by Kevin Barton of Harbor Springs, Michigan and his work A Grand Spring will be featured on the A Taste of Mackinac Artist Series Black Star Farms Sparkling Wine. Kevin Barton is a member of the American Impressionists Society and Oil Painters of America. He is a full-time professional artist and an avid plein-air artist who can often be seen painting on location. His art is a reflection of his love of painting and his inspiration is drawn from living in the Little Traverse Bay area. Because of the his painterly gift, his paintings now hang in private and corporate collections across the country.

Second place was taken by Noel Skiba of Mackinac Island and Big Pine Key, Florida. Her work Lilacs at the Grand Fountain will be featured on the A Taste of Mackinac Artist Series Black Star Farms Table Red. Skiba was raised in Alpena, Michigan and began to study art at the age of 12. She received her BFA, AAS and ASA degrees in the 1980’s and began working as a commercial and fine artist traveling from Canada to Mexico painting ‘en plein air’ as the impressionists did during the 19th century. One of the highlights in her career thus far was paining live at the funeral of President Gerald R. Ford as a gift to the family and the museum. She may be found at events all over the Island each summer painting live for charitable events including Jammin’ for the Arts at the Manoogian Foundation House, the Mackinac Island Music Festival at Mission Point theatre and in picturesque places all over Mackinac Island. She has been featured in Mackinac Living and Michigan Blue Magazines.

Douglas David | A Grand Day | Oil on Canvas

Third Place was taken by Douglas David of Indianapolis, Indiana. His work A Grand Day will be featured on A Taste of Mackinac Artist Series Black Star Farms Table White. Indiana artist Douglas David is known for his landscapes and still life paintings. David has a BFA in Visual Communication from Herron School of Art in 1979 and has studied under painters John P. Osborne and John C. Traynor. David has received numerous regional awards, most notably the Distinguished Hoosier Award presented by Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels. In 2003 he won the public vote for the Indiana state license plate, which remained in production through 2008. Mr. David will also be the featured artist at the Mackinac Island Public Library Summer Art Show for the month of July this summer.

About

The Mackinac Island Lilac Festival began in 1949 as a one day parade and today it is a 10-day celebration, which is the first and largest summer event on the Island. This celebration blends the Island’s historic varieties of lilacs – many of which were brought here during the mid 1800’s; distinctive equestrian culture; fine food, drink and accommodations plus a range of other activities, the festival is one of the Island’s biggest attractions. The festival honors its most recognized botanical symbol, the lilac, while emphasizing its international, cultural and historic appeal

For more information, visit http://www.mackinacislandlilacfestival.org/ or call (800) 454-5227

2011 Lilac Festival Art Poster Selected

2011-03-17T13:45:00.000-07:00

Kevin Barton
A Grand DayOil on Mahogany board

Mackinac Island-Mich "A Grand Day" by Harbor Springs painter Kevin Barton was selected as first place winner of the 62nd Annual Mackinac Island Lilac Festival Art Poster. Judging the submissions were Island businessman and city alderman Sam Barnwell, Marie Steensma of Wings of Mackinac, Jack Landres, owner/curator of Victorian Summer Gallery and Lilacs and Lace, and art historian Mary McGuire Slevin who is also the director of the festival. McGuire Slevin shares, "his painterly ability evokes the 19th century impressionism and post impressionism work of Vincent van Gogh, though make no mistake, he is not to be confused with a copyist, his has absorbed the influences of the great masters and reinterpreted them with his immense talent and skill."

The painting features the fountain exploding with water swirling its way up to the sky which draws the viewers eye to the entrance of Grand Hotel. Barton's technical ability is ever present in his rendering of the hotel's iconic porch complete with the American Flags waving and the massive light globes that light the porch at night. The entire scene is framed with lilacs that are ever twisting to direct the viewer around the painting. Brilliant colors permeate the scene with shades of greens, blues and violets that seem to calm the painting and push the viewer to witness the beauty of the water flowing from the fountain.

Barton shares "As an artist my goal is to promote the philosophy that appreciating life should be an everyday activity and in doing so inspire those who do not themselves create. I prefer to do my work from life and on location." Many people on Mackinac Island have witnessed Barton painting on the Island over the years and his dedication and desire to paint the scene as he sees it is apparent. His focus is always on his work and while he will give the obligatory nod hello or engage in conversation, Barton is very focused on his subject matter and his purpose. His painting of the fountain in the Tea Garden at Grand Hotel demonstrates this focus and the importance of painting on location. He continues "This brings energy and excitement to the canvas as well as allowing me to be both more truthful to the subject and more interpretive of it. The process as well as the materials I use are all of great importance. I work in oil, using the most unique and high quality colors on oil primed linen, oil primed hardboards, clear primed mahogany and birch grounds, colored gessoes and sometimes a heavyweight cotton canvas, all of which impart a unique feel and look to the final piece. These ideas converge in lucid paintings of bright, balanced colors and bold brush strokes as I strive to create a vision of nature translated through my hand to the mind and eye of the viewer."

Barton's skill, use of color and materials and approach to the subject matter has created an exciting work of art and one that everyone that is a fan of Mackinac Island and Grand Hotel will certainly love to have in their homes for years to come.

In addition to being the official art poster for the annual Lilac Festival, Kevin Barton's painting will also grace Black Star Farms "A Taste of Mackinac" Sparkling Wine, created especially by the Michigan winery to commemorate the 25th Anniversary of "A Taste of Mackinac", the festival's signature culinary event.

The art poster will be available at select Island galleries and shops in June and a reception will be held to honor those who participated in the juried competition. For more information, click on www.mackinacislandlilacfestival.org or call (800) 454-5227.

About Kevin Barton
Kevin Barton is a member of the American Impressionists Society and Oil Painters of America. He is a full-time professional artist and an avid plein-air artist who can often be seen painting on location. His art is a reflection of his love of painting and his inspiration is drawn from living in the Little Traverse Bay area. Because of the his painterly gift, his paintings now hang in private and corporate collections across the country.

In addition to this prestigious award, Barton has received many awards, including a Best of Show Award at Birmingham Art in the Park, a first place award in the National Masterpiece Arts Interpretations contest, signature member status by the American Impressionist Society and Best of Show at the Petoskey Art in the Park show. He has also been exhibited at the Amsterdam Whitney Gallery in New York City. All are promising signs that a greater recognition is on the horizon for this young artist.

Current Gallery Representation:Barton’s Art Loft, Above Symons General Store, Petoskey, MI
Crooked Tree Arts Center, Petoskey, MI
Gallery of Cedar Creek Interiors, Harbor Springs, MI
Stafford’s Gallery, Petoskey, MI
Twisted Fish Gallery, Ellsworth, MI
Victorian Summer Gallery, Mackinac Island, MI

For more about Kevin Barton, please visit www.kevinbartonartist.com

The First Mackinac Island Lilac Festival Art Poster

2011-03-16T10:33:00.000-07:00

Marlee Brown, Marquette Park, Oil on Canvas, 1993

In 1993, Island painter Marlee Brown donated the first work of art to commemorate the annual Lilac Festival. Her painting of Marquette Park with Fort Mackinac in the background was printed in a limited run and was also used as a key chain and admission pin for select festival events.

Today Marlee's work may be found at Oil Paintings by Marlee in Grand Hotel. Her work is hightly sought and may be found in collections at The White House, Washington DC, Governor's Summer Residence, Mackinac Island, University of Michigan's President's House, Tuft's University President's House, Wolverine Insurance Company

Marlee has many solo exhibitions, including The Michigan Women’s Hall of Fame, Bobbitt Visual Arts Center, Albion College. Southwestern Michigan College, Perry-Sherwood Fine Art, Crooked Tree Arts Center, Anderson and Company Fine Art and The Tallmadge

Select exhibitions of her work have been featured at Wally Findlay Galleries, Art Students’ League of New York and Galerie Chabin in Paris, France

She has gained numerous accolades and awards including the19th International Dogwood Juried Art Exhibition at Georgia Tech University and the 26th Annual St. Joseph Art Exhibition as Blue Ribbon Juror’s Choice Award

Her education is extensive with studies at Vermont Studio Center, Artist Residency under Wolf Kahn, Metropolitan Museum of Art, NYC, Copyists Program at Parsons School of Design, National Academy School of Fine Art, Arts Sudents’ League of New York, En Plein Air School of Painting in Paris, France, Scottsdale Artist School, Scottsdale, University of California and she received her undergraduate degree at University of Michigan.
We hope everyone will take time to visit Marlee's gallery at Grand Hotel.

Lilac Festival Art Poster Competition

2011-03-16T07:43:00.000-07:00

Noel Skiba, Lilac at the Gazebo
2010 Lilac Festival Art Print

Each season, a work of art is selected as the official Mackinac Island Lilac Festival Art Poster. This season, we received 11 submissions, all worthy of the title. Great Turtle Festivals, a 501c3 non-profit division of the Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau hosted the call for entries for the 62nd Annual Mackinac Island Lilac Festival Series II Art Print. The grand prize winning artwork will be used as part of a national campaign to promote the Mackinac Island Lilac Festival.

Each season, a theme is selected and this year the theme is the Tea Garden Fountain at Grand Hotel. Each painter is asked to include in their work of art entire or partial elements of the fountain and of course, the painting must include lilacs. Any other elements will be at the creative discretion of the artist.

Submission are accepted in any of the following media: acrylic, oil or watercolor and must be a portrait format only. The Lilac Festival Art Poster Series II art prints are 16” x 20” though the image area of the artwork will be 11” x 15”. If the art submitted is in a different size or format, it may be rejected or the festival committee reserves the right to crop the image to fit the parameters of the poster. Only original artwork is considered.

Details:
The winning art print will be printed on gloss coated 10pt premium card stock with water-based, non-toxic soy ink.

The winning artist will receive a two night stay for two on Mackinac Island during the 2011 season plus 50 prints to sell or do with as the artist wishes.

The winning artist’s scanned image becomes the property of the Great Turtle Festivals and will be used for fundraising purposes with reproduction as an art print, lithograph or poster. The artists agrees by submitting their work that they will not compete by creating prints, cards or any other form of media of the winning artwork.

By submitting work, the artist(s) give the Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau exclusive licensing of the winning work of art for perpetuity. The artist’s copyright notice should read “by artist for Great Turtle Festivals” and should be credited as such in retrospectives online or in printed collections of the artist’s work.

All artwork will be displayed on this website, on our facebook page in low resolution and made available to the press for appropriate press releases regarding the competition and the festival.

The original artwork and artist credit of said work will remain the property of the artist.
Stay tuned, we will be posting the works on this site over the next few days and announcing the winner on March 18, 2011.

Lilac Festival Queen

2010-11-11T10:38:00.000-08:00

2007 Lilac Festival Queen Kristi Kamphius left,
with Lilac Festival Court Member Karlena Mosley, right

The Lilac Queen has been an important part of the Lilac Festival tradition since it began in 1949. Then, a police booth where the Taxi Stand is today, was used to post photographs of the Lilac Queen candidates and the public selected the winner.

Today, the Lilac Queen is selected by the students from their classmates at Mackinac Island Public School. It is to honor the student who has dedicated their time to their classmates and community events throughout the year. Generally, the candidates are juniors or seniors. The student body selects the court as well as the Lilac Festival Princess.

Duties include opening Fort Mackinac, welcoming guests to A Taste of Mackinac, riding in the Lilac Festival Parade and making appearances at many community events for the year of their reign.

Chronological List of Mackinac Island Lilac Festival Queens

1949 Sue Perault

1950 Mary Dennany

1951 Jeanie Vance

1952 Catherine McGreevy

1953 Joann Goodheart

1954 Linda Horn

1955 Unknown

1956 Judy Dufina

1957 Alice Bunker

1958 Sandra Gallagher

1959 Anna Joyce Andress

1960 Sharon Schmidt

1961 Joann Sawyer

1962 Beverly Brown

1963 Margaret Doud

1964 Nancy Chambers

1965 Nancy Pfeiffelman and Cindy Francis

1966 Melly Alford

1967 Loretta Cowell

1968 Cathy Cowell

1969 Deborah Rogers

1970 Deborah DeLavern

1971 Dorothy Gillespie

1972 Patty Trayser

1973 Amanda St. Onge

1974 Cindy Cadotte

1975 Barbara Gillespie

1976 Ellen Putnam

1977 Martha Bodwin

1978 Joyce Olson

1979 Midge Bodwin

1980 Anna Rogers

1981 Margaret Gallagher

1982 Carol Ouellette

1983 Velma LaPine

1984 Tonya Bazinau

1985 Tammy LaPine

1986 Louann Kolatski

1987 Michelle McLean

1988 Doris Bradley

1989 Katrina Platzke

1990 Vanessa Smith

1991 Heather Chambers

1992 Mariah Horn

1993 Lisa Doud

1994 Tawna Urman

1995 Erica Jones

1996 Peggy Bynoe

1997 Jennifer Putnam

1998 Heather Campagnola

1999 Christine Ball

2000 Tracy Quinter

2001 Polly Smith

2002 Roxanne Pettit

2003 Sara Wessel

2004 Jennifer Wightman

2005 Blisse Beardsley

2006 Melissa Bunker

2007 Kristi Kamphius

2008 Jane Finkel

2009 Michi Mullings

2010 Marie Bunker

A Taste of Mackinac: the Lilac Festival Culinary Picnic

2010-06-23T12:27:00.000-07:00

A Taste of Mackinac was incredible. The weather was perfect and Harbour View Inn was a pretty as ever. We were fortunate to have Dalmain Wheatley from Jamaica playing piano and the Ardan Academy of Irish Dance entertaining the crowd.

Kerry Norton, the winemaker from Columbia Winery of Washington State was on hand to share his wines with the crowd. It was an honor to have such a distinctive winemaker and his wines as the official wines for the event. Bell's Brewery of Kalamazoo brought their amazing Porter and Lager.

Sam Adams had a great showing of deliciously cold beer. As a former Bostonian, it was great to see the local brew from Boston featured at A Taste of Mackinac too.

It was pretty hot out so most folks started making their own iced coffee treats from the Starbucks Table, it was fun.

Main Courses:
Mary's Bistro: Bistro Chicken Pot Pie
Horn's Bar: Cheese Enchiladas, Chips & Salsa, Strawberry Salad
Yankee Rebel Tavern: Tavern Pot Roast Sandwiches
Pink Pony: BBQ Ribs, Pony Bruschetta with Fresh Mozzarella
Ice House at Island House: White Bean Salad, Chef Sean's Cheesecake
Island Slice Pizzeria: Hand Tossed Pizzas
Millies on Main: BBQ Pork Sandwiches with Cole Slaw, Caesar Salad
Patrick Sinclair's Irish Pub: Corned Beef & Cabbage, Whitefish Cakes, Shepherd's Steak Pie

Desserts:
Murdick's Fudge
Ryba's Fudge
May's Candy Shop

Drinks:
Columbia Winery: Gewurztraminer, Chardonnay, Reisling, Shiraz, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon
Bell's Brewery: Porter, Lager
Sam Adams" Summer Wheat, Twisted Tea
Starbucks: Pikes Roast, French Roast, Columbian
Doud's Market: Bottle Water and loads of Ice
Coca-Cola: Assorted flavors of the refreshing Fuze Juice Drinks

A very special thanks to the staff at Harbour View Inn, Bart Berkshire and Garima Thakur, our tourism bureau interns and Tom Story, a great friend and volunteer and all of dockporters that helped us set up and tear down. Ste Anne's Church for the tables and chairs, Mackinac Island Service Company for getting everything to an from the event by horse drawn dray and of course Harbour View Inn.

See you next year! www.mackinacislandlilacfestival.org

For links to all of the participants, click on www.mackinacisland.org.

61st Annual Mackinac Island Lilac Festival Award Winners

2010-06-22T11:58:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to the following 61st Annual Mackinac Island Lilac Festival Award Winners:

Broadway Theme Window Decorating Contest:
Best Themed Window: La Galerie for Sound of Music
Most Creative Window: Ryba's Fudge (Arnold Line Dock) for Annie Get Your Gun

Ballot Winner of a set of Series II Lilac Festival Posters: Kim Wilson of Grand Rapids

Mackinac Island Dog & Pony Show:
Best in Show: Bill Murko & his bulldog for UP!
Best Dog & Pony: Brugger's Other Farm
Best Group: Boston Terrier Trio for Hair
Best Dog/Owner Look Alike: Chiuaua & Co...

Honorable Mention:
#15 Golden Retriever as Finnian's Rainbow
#4 Dachsund Trio as Cats
Greyhounds of Eastern Michigan
PAWS with a Cause

Mackinac Island Lilac Festival Grand Parade:
Most Creative: 7th Heaven Salon & Spa for Hair
Best Carriage: Lilac Festival Queen & her Court, courtesy of Mackinac Island Carriage Tours & Weber's Floral & Gift
Best Marching Band: Royal Canadian Legion Drum & Trumpet Band
Best Horse Hitch: Brugger's Other Farm for Sound of Music
Stunt Junkies: Mary's Bistro's Unicycle Riding Chicken

Stella King Memorial: Wings of Mackinac Butterfly Conservatory for Wicked
Best Float: Mackinac Island Bible Church for Godspell
Most Diverse: Scottville Clown Band
Best Bicycle: Orr Kids Bikes for Mary Poppins
Grand Award: Grand Traverse Pipe & Drum Band
Best Equestrian: DE Wallen's Wild West Show feat. Bart the Trick Pony
Best Walking: Girl Scout Troop #327 of Southeastern Michigan
Best Parade Theme: Mackinac Island State Dock (DNR): Pirates of Penzance
Best Lil' Lilac: Little Luxuries of Mackinac Island
Most Humorous: Northern Michigan Beach Queens
Best Musical Group: Horn's Bar & Yankee Rebel Tavern's Float for Mama Mia
Humanitarian Award: Greyhounds of Eastern Michigan

Best Equestrian Group: Mackinac Island Horsemens Association for Puttin on the Ritz feat. Maryanke Alexander and Leanne Brodeur Bunker on their gorgeous Fresian Horses

$10,000 Raffle at Mary's Bistro
The raffle is the way we are able to support our lilac festival. There are 300 tickets for $100 each and the prizes are $5000, $3000 and $2000.

The Winners
$5000 Ron Dufina, Village Inn, Balsam Shop, Loon Feather, Pontiac Lodge
$3000 Carol Rearick, Mackinac Island resident
$2000 Split 5 ways: Bill Sova-Island House, Tom Bushman-Star Line Ferry, Silvana Harrison-Ryba's Fudge, Carleton Pfeiffelmann-Mary's Bistro & Lamech Smith-Island House

Lilac Progess, Thursday, May 20, 2010

2010-05-20T11:53:00.000-07:00

Nice weather has arrived and while the breeze off the lake is holding our mid-blooming and late blooming lilacs at bay, the early bloomers should start to open in the next week or two. Lilac time is such a great time of year here on Mackinac Island.

This lilac pictured is called Syringa vulgaris 'Sensation' P.P.# 1242 created by Father Fiala. It is an outstanding lilac and one of the most loved here on the Island. With large trusses and purple-red florets edged in white, it is a mid-bloomer. Its right outside of our window here at the Tourism Bureau downtown.

To learn more about this lilac, be sure to join in one of the Walk and Talk with Lilac events ongoing through the festival. Jeff Young is the lilac curator here on Mackinac and comes each season from Vermont. There is so much to know so bring your notebook and let Jeff teach you how to care and feed your lilacs at home.

http://www.mackinacislandlilacfestival.org/

2010-05-13T15:49:00.000-07:00

Here is the lilac bush next to the tourism bureau a few days ago. The buds measured about an inch long...as you can see, its still very much spring here on Mackinac. Today, we are getting alot of rain and its about 46 degrees...brrrrrr.

Lilac Update

2010-05-13T10:06:00.000-07:00

Hello Lilac Lovers,
Its been pretty chilly here and while the horses are returning each day, the lilacs aren't even close to blooming here...which means they will be right on time (unless we get a warm spell). The tightly closed buds are starting to appear in an unusual abundance as well as wee little leaves.

We'll start to take pictures and post them here over the next few weeks so ya'll can see what's happening.

Painter Noel Skiba wins the 2010 Lilac Festival Art Poster Competition

2010-05-04T15:38:00.000-07:00

Since 1993, the Mackinac Island Lilac Festival has had an official festival art poster. This season, painter Noel Skiba of Rockford and Mackinac Island, Michigan received 1st Place for her painting “Lilacs by the Gazebo.”

Each April, the submissions arrive and the judges have the arduous task of selecting a winner. “It is always very difficult to choose and place the artists” says Mary McGuire Slevin, art historian and executive director of the Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau. “This season, we chose “Lilacs by the Gazebo” by artist Noel Skiba. Her depiction of Mission Point Resort’s Gazebo had so much depth; we felt it captured the abundance of the fully grown garden as well as its surroundings; the iconic horse and buggy overlooking the lake, sailboats in the distance and the Adirondack chairs of summer in the foreground. Her use of space was well conceived and created a foreground, middle and background by using the flowers to direct the scene to the Gazebo. This illusion of depth and her use of color and line have framed the gazebo while giving it the lush landscape that is so reminiscent of summer.” Noel resides on Mackinac each summer ad shows her work at Victorian Summer Gallery on Market Street.

Skiba was raised in Alpena, Michigan and began to study art at the age of 12. She received her BFA, AAS and ASA degrees in the 1980’s and began working as a commercial and fine artist traveling from Canada to Mexico paining ‘en plein air’ as the impressionists did during the 19th century. One of the highlights in her career thus far was paining live at the funeral of President Gerald R. Ford as a gift to the family and the museum. She may be found at events all over the Island each summer painting live for charitable events including Jammin’ for the Arts at the Manoogian Foundation House, the Mackinac Island Music Festival at Mission Point theatre and in picturesque places all over Mackinac Island. She has been featured in Mackinac Living and Michigan Blue Magazines.

The Lilac Festival art print will be released on June 11, 2010 and will be available at select Island shops.

The theme is chosen by the board of directors of the Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau at their winter meeting each year and must depict something special about Mackinac Island. This season’s theme was Gardens & Gazebos. Historically, the Gazebo remains most prevalent outdoor garden structure in the world. Common in Egyptian gardens 5,000 years ago it was also found in ancient Rome, tenth century Persian gardens and as teahouses in Japan and China throughout the ages. The Victorian Era saw a rebirth of the gazebo but was overtaken in popularity of the summer porch. By the 1930’s, people again turned their attention to space away from the home and the gazebo revival was born. By the 1980’s there was an explosion of gazebos being built across the country as people harkened back to the Victorian Era and its elegance. Today, we have several gazebos from the last gazebo building boom at Mission Point Resort, Island House Hotel and Harbour View Inn. Island gazebos have become the place where special memories are made and recorded as a wedding site, engagement location and as a place for family portraits. The Somewhere in Time Gazebo at Fort Mackinac is the actual gazebo from the cult classic Somewhere in Time starring Christopher Reeve and Jane Seymour, filmed on Mackinac Island in the late 1970’s.

The judges for the competition were Mary McGuire Slevin, , Jack Landres, owner of Victorian Summer Gallery, Marie Steensma , Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau Board Member and manager of Wings of Mackinac and Sam Barnwell. Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau Board Member , owner of Mackinac Outfitters, All Aboard and Food & Beverage Manager at Hotel Iroquois’ Carriage House Dining Room.

Past festival art poster artists have included Marlee Brown, Richard Wolfgang , Joe Cilluffo, Betty Bea Washburn and Diane Neyer.

Results:
First Place: Noel Skiba: Lilacs by the Gazebo, Acrylic on Canvas-“Painting life any where...concerts, festivals, sports, and religious events..."Capturing a Moment" began in the 1990's. I traveled to Trinidad and Tobago in 2000, painting with a Christian music group, sharing my gifts with children and adults, performing in person as well as with finished pieces. While creating, I am like a vessel; the art flows through me like an instrument. When I paint, something special happens. I thank God for giving me a gift I can share.” www.noelskiba.com

Second Place: Diane Neyer: Mackinac: Mackinac, A Moment, Acrylic on Canvas-Exposed to art and painting at an early age, Diane has been working as an artist off and on all her life. An avid gardener, Diane's colorful use of flowers and landscapes are depicted in many of her works. Recently, she has started a series called "Scenes of Mackinac" with limited edition giclees and prints as well as original works available at Metivier Inn on Market Street. Diane spends her summers on Mackinac Island and winters in Traverse City, Michigan.

Third Place: Betty Bea Washburn: Watercolor on Arches-Betty Bea has been painting for over 40 years. She grew up in Indiana but has been living in Michigan most of her adult life. She taught art in Marshall, Michigan for over 30 years and now resides in Bellaire, Michigan. The colors she achieves with her watercolors are amazing. She finds inspiration in area landscapes, gardens, and historical sights. Betty Bea is intrigued by watercolor relationships: the harmony between the physical properties of the medium, the effect of the atmosphere on the subject matter, and the use of color as a means of creating an internal glow. Her goal is to infuse the paintings with energy that remains within the work long after the brush has been lifted from the paper.

Honorable Mention:

Diane Sprengel, Mackinac Island, Michigan

Yvonne Della Morta, St. Ignace , Michigan

Tad Scheiber, Traverse City , Michigan

Kevin Barton, Petoskey, Michigan

To view all of the works of art, please click on http://www.mackinacislandlilacfestival.org/

'News from Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau'

2010-04-27T05:51:00.000-07:00

'News from Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau'

Victoria Magazine

2010-04-26T09:37:00.000-07:00

Victoria Magazine came to the Island to cover the festival last season and it was fantastic to have such a great publication write about Mackinac Island. We were so honored to have had them here.

Here is an excerpt: "In a dreamy locale where the pace of life moves along a bit more leisurely than in the rest of the world, innkeeper Becki Barnwell fondly recalls the days of her childhood spent on Mackinac Island and her family’s legacy at the Hotel Iroquois. For most of the island’s residents, the month of June evokes the strongest memories—when an abundance of lilacs blossom throughout the island, signaling a ten-day festival that draws thousands of visitors from around the country"
The article from their visit may be found here: http://www.victoriamag.com/article.aspx?id=6890 or, swing by your local news stand and pick up a copy to view more of Mackinac Island and to learn more about the lilac festival taking place there June 11 through 20. The story is“The Lovely Lilacs of Mackinac Island,” on page 54 of the May/June 2010 issue of Victoria magazine.

61st Annual Mackinac Island Lilac Festival Events....

2010-04-26T08:20:00.000-07:00

We've been working for months on our lilac festival and today, have completed all events for the festival. Please take a look and be on the lookout for our new festival website which will launch next week....stay tuned!

http://www.mackinacislandlilacfestival.org/

Mackinac Island Lilac Festival Events
June 11-20, 2010

Please check back often, while unlikely, events may change…

Ongoing

7am-8:30am Sunrise Legends & Lore Trek - Island coach, Mary Patay PhD will ensure you stay in shape while exploring the Island during this early morning trek from downtown to Arch Rock and back. Please wear layered clothing and good walking shoes. $10 per person meets at Tourism Bureau.

10am Walk and Talk with Lilacs - Learn about Mackinac Island’s lilacs and how to care for yours with lilac curator and expert Jeff Young. Presented by the Mackinac Island Community Foundation, meets at the Tourism Bureau (from Sunday, June 13 through Saturday, June 19)

12pm2pm Grand Luncheon Buffet - The legendary Grand Luncheon Buffet is a distinct highlight of the Grand Hotel experience. It features hot and cold entrees, seafood, salad, sumptuous pastries and much more. Served in the Main Dining Room from noon until 2pm daily. $40 per person, hotel admission will be deducted (no hotel dress code during the day).

12pm-2pm Victorian Summer Gallery - Island artists are scheduled to paint in front of the gallery throughout the Lilac Festival. Stop by and watch the artists at work and say hello to some of Mackinac Island’s finest painters.

3pm Walk and Talk with Lilacs - Learn about Mackinac Island’s lilacs and how to care for yours with lilac curator and expert Jeff Young. Presented by the Mackinac Island Community Foundation, meets at the Tourism Bureau (from Sunday, June 13 through Saturday, June 19)

3:30pm-5pm Grand Afternoon Tea - In keeping with more than 100 years of Grand Hotel tradition, Afternoon Tea is served each day in the Parlor. Guests enjoy tea, sherry and champagne, petite finger sandwiches, fresh-baked scones, and an array of pastries, accompanied by a chamber music recital. $25 per person, (additional $10 hotel admission for non-guests, no hotel dress code during the day)

9pm Comedy with Stu Stuart - Direct from his worldwide tour, Stu heads back to Mackinac Island for his summer in residence as the Island comic. Tix available at the Lilac Tree Hotel and at the door. $15 per person, $12.50 students, seniors and military, $50 families, Lilac Tree Hotel Lower Level

9:30-11:30pm Alex Graham & Grand Hotel Orchestra - Graham has been the music director at Grand Hotel since 2001. His latest CD on Origin Records, Brand New, was ranked in the top 50 nationally. Come hear what all the fuss is about…Grand Hotel (dress code: coat and tie for gentlemen, dresses or pantsuits for ladies after 6:30pm

10pm Downtown Entertainment - Musicians and DJs take over the stages in our downtown pubs Gate House • Horn’s Bar • Mustang Lounge • Patrick Sinclair’s Irish Pub • Pink Pony

Shopping Events

Little Luxuries of Mackinac Trunk Show-This delightful shop features home decor, luxury bath and body products, stationary and gift wrap, hostess gifts, accessories women love and unique jewelry and will feature local arts and crafts throughout the festival.

Spinning Turtle Pottery-Jay Barch is the Island potter and has created one of a kind signed vase for this season’s lilac festival and will be available at Weber’s Floral and Gifts on Historic Market Street

Lilac Plant Sale-Each season, Weber’s Floral offers lovely lilacs for you to take home and plant in your own yards. Weber’s Floral & Gift, Historic Market Street

Viviana G. Trunk Show at Some Wear on Mackinac-Viviana Gabeiras is a Fashion Designer graduate of Parsons School of Design in New York.

Friday, June 11, 2010

2pm-5pm Lilac Festival Wine Tasting at Mission Point Resort sample fine wines from boutique wineries with Ken Mattei of Bayside Beverage with select bottles available for purchase. Mission Point’s Lake Side Market Patio.

4:30pm Pre-Coronation Jazz Concert with Grand Hotel’s Alex Graham Quartet • Windermere Point. Graham has been the music director at Grand Hotel since 2001 and is an incredibly talented composer. This is a unique opportunity to hear Graham and his Quartet in an open air concert.

5:30pm Coronation of the Lilac Festival Queen • Mayor Margaret Doud, Reverend Vince Carrol, Father Rey Garcia and 2009 Lilac Festival Queen Michi Mullings welcome the new festival queen elected by the school children each season, Windermere Point (inclement weather, Windermere Hotel)

6pm Cannonball BBQ Hayride • Take a hay wagon to the Cannonball at British Landing for a BBQ feast. $32 per person, reservations suggested (906) 847-0932

9pm Movies at the Mission - First run films at historic Mission Point Theatre. Tix at Mission Point Activities Center and at the door.

Saturday, June 12, 2010

9:30am Lilac Festival 10K • This paved road race starts in the historic downtown turning up to the state park then through the wooded-center of the Island. The last leg of the race is on the shore road, offering the unique opportunity to take in sights. Registration online or at the school $25 per person. Begins at Windermere Point

11:00am Lil Lilac Run/Walk - This is a great way to introduce children to fitness and the entire race will be run in the school yard. Registration online or at the school, $10 per child. Water, fruit and cookies for participants, Mackinac Island Schoolyard

11-4pm Annual Book Sale • Mackinac Island Public Library, this gorgeous library was decorated by Dorothy Draper protégé Carleton Varney, who also decorates Grand Hotel.

2pm-4pm Hops on a Mustang- There is nothing quite like a cold beer at the Mustang Lounge and on this day hop on in and sample fine brews from Miller & Coors.

2pm-4m Lilac Festival Wine Tasting at Mission Point Resort sample fine wines from boutique wineries with Ken Mattei of Bayside Beverage. Bottles will also be available for purchase.

5pm Architectural Walking Tour - Covering 300 years of American Architectural styles, learn the who, what, where, when and why of many downtown buildings. Tourism Bureau, $10

6pm Cannonball BBQ Hayride • Take a hay wagon to the Cannonball at British Landing for a BBQ feast. $32 per person, reservations suggested (906) 847-0932

6:30pm Chophouse Mackinac Carelli Wine Dinner with Argentinean wine maker Rick Collet and Chef Scott Blackerby’s four course prix fixe menu. $45 per person. Reservations recommended.

7:30-9:30pm Dancing’ in the Streets - Learn Country Line Dancing with the West Michigan Bootscooters • Market Street at the Stuart House Museum

9pm Movies at the Mission - First run films at Mission Point Theatre. Tix at Mission Point Activities Center and at the door.

Sunday, June 13, 2010

9am-11pm Sinclair’s Lybster Brunch - Lybster, Scotland is our sister city and Patrick Sinclair built the Fort, bought the Island from the Chippewa for the King was a legendary Celt on Mackinac Island, Patrick Sinclair’s Irish Pub, $8.99 per person

2pm-5pm Lilac Festival Wine Tasting - Sample fine wines from boutique wineries with Ken Mattei of Bayside Beverage with select bottles available for purchase. Goodfellow's Grill, Lake View Hotel

5pm Architectural Walking Tour - Covering 300 years of American Architectural styles, learn the who, what, where, when and why of many downtown buildings. This easy, level walking tour lasts about one hour. Tourism Bureau • $10

Monday, June 14, 2010

2pm Artist’s Garden Party • All are invited to join Island painter Diane Neyer who created the 2009 Lilac Festival Poster painting in her gorgeous garden at Metivier Inn with music and refreshments for all.

5:30pm Lilac Festival Grand Golf Tournament, Grand Nine • $50 (906) 847-3331 to register, ask for the Pro Shop, club rentals available

7-9pm Jamie Bynoe Lilac Festival Street Hockey Tournament - Islander Jamie Bynoe rallies all hockey fans to join in on Market Street at the Post Office
Tuesday, June 15, 2010

10am Grand Hotel History Lecture - This is a must do event with hotel historian Bob Tagatz • Grand Hotel • Included with $10 hotel admission

12pm A Literary Lunch - Island Bookstore presents bestselling author Kris Radish whose novels celebrate the power, passion and friendships of women. Carriage House Dining Room, Hotel Iroquois $25 per person, reservations suggested, (906) 847-6202.

12pm Nature Tour with naturalist Trish Martin - Trish writes the nature column for the Mackinac Island Town Crier and knows so much about the flora and fauna of Mackinac Island. This is a great walking tour and lasts a few hours. Meets at Bogan Lane Inn

2-4pm Lilac Festival Poster Exhibition - Each season, we have an artist’s call for entries for the annual festival poster; this exhibition features the works of the artists at Victorian Summer Gallery on Market Street.

6:30pm Lion’s Club Bingo - In 1917 Chicago businessman Melvin Jones suggested civic groups ban together to better communities all over the world to make the world a better place today. Community Hall, 18 & over only,

9pm Gate House Jazz & Wine Night with the Alex Graham Quartet, Spend an evening enjoying hot jazz in a cool setting with Grand Hotel musical director Alex Graham and some of the best jazz musicians on the planet. Gate House

Wednesday, June 16, 2010

9:30am-11:30am Governor’s Summer Residence Tour - The Lawrence A. Young cottage donated to the state of Michigan for its Governors. Free tour

12pm Grand Hotel Garden Tour - Grand Hotel Gardens - Meet at Tennis Court entrance, $10 per person (does not include hotel admission)
2pm-4pmCead Mile Failte- Learn Irish Dancing with Metro Detroit’s Ardán Academy of Dance and connect with Irish Culture at Windermere Point. No experience necessary! Free

4pm-8pm Family Game Night - Caddywampus and Great Turtle Toys put on a great evening of fun with new, classic and exceptionally entertaining games for kids of all ages. Lilac Tree Lower Level

5pm History Tour with Dan Seely - Island historian and retired history teacher from Mackinac Island Public School, Dan Seely shares the who, what, where and when of Mackinac Island. $10 per person meets at Windermere Hotel

6pm Yankee Rebel Wine Dinner - Known for their distinctive menu and award worthy wine list, the Yankee Rebel Tavern will host an incredible dinner featuring creations by Chef John Ness and Washington winemaker Kerry Norton from Columbia Winery. Reservations (906) 847-6249.

Thursday, June 17, 2010

11:30am A Taste of Mackinac at Harbour View Inn - Mackinac Island’s most anticipated culinary event with Chefs from around the Island showcasing their favorite dishes. Beer, Wine, Soft drinks included. . Ardán Academy of Irish Dance and pianist Dalmain Wheatley entertain. $15 adults, $10 teens (13-17) $5 children (5-12), tix at the Tourism Bureau and the event

2-4pm Lilac Festival Wine Tasting - Join winemaker Kerry Norton of Columbia Winery from Washington State. Norton is known as one of the most innovative wine makers in America. Hotel Iroquois’ Carriage House, $10 per person

2-4pm Sinclair’s Beer Tasting - Beer from around the globe makes this event a journey around the world in 120 minutes. Flight pricing varies, Patrick Sinclair’s Irish Pub.

5pm History Tour with Dan Seely - Island historian and retired history teacher from Mackinac Island Public School, Dan Seely shares the who, what, where and when of Mackinac Island. $10 per person meets at Windermere Hotel

Friday, June 18, 2010

11am Harbor History Cruise - Mackinaw Breeze at Bay View $18 adults $15 children (5-12) Enjoy a cruise from the harbor named after the Commander in Chief of North America, Sir Frederick Haldimand (August 11, 1718 – June 5, 1791) who oversaw military operations against the northern frontiers during the French Indian or Seven Years War which changed Mackinac Island from being a territory of New France to Great Britain.

2pm-5pm Lilac Festival Wine Tasting at Mission Point Resort - Sample fine wines from boutique wineries with Ken Mattei of Bayside Beverage. Bottles will also be available for purchase.

4pm Feast of Epona 4H Lemonade Sale & Stable Tour- Join the students of the 4H program as they offer stable tours and offer lemonade to help raise funds the 4H program on Mackinac Island. Mission Hill Stable

5pm Feast of Epona Blessing of the Animals - Join us as we bless the horses and dogs of Mackinac Island at this auspicious event. Mission Hill Stable

Saturday, June 19, 2010

11am-12:30pm Party with your Pooch - Everyone is invited to join together before the parade with their pooches at this pet friendly restaurant for libations and such. Waterside Patio at Mary’s Bistro, Star Line Ferry Dock.

1pm Epona & Barkus Parade - This zany parade is a blast for pooches and their human companions. This season’s theme is Broadway Musicals, so come join in or watch the parade of canines dressed to the hilt.... presented by the Mackinac Island Dog and Pony Club. Line up at the school, parade is on the boardwalk from the school to Windermere Point.

1:30pm Mackinac Island Dog & Pony Show - Featuring DE Wallen’s Wild West Show with his Amazing Performing Horses!!! Pick up a raffle ticket for the Log Dog Bed from local craftsman Jim Francis and be sure to enjoy the best hot dogs, brats and root beer floats from the Dog House and laugh with emcee/comedian Stu Stuart. This family event is one of the highlights of the festival. Windermere Point.

2pm-5pm Lilac Festival Wine Tasting at Mission Point Resort sample fine wines from boutique wineries with Ken Mattei of Bayside Beverage. Bottles will also be available for purchase.

6pm Cannonball BBQ Hayride - Take a hay wagon to the Cannonball at British Landing for a BBQ feast. $32 per person, reservations suggested (906) 847-0932

6:30pm Black Star Farms Wine Dinner - Chef Scott Blackerby of Chophouse Mackinac pairs his culinary creations with wine maker Lee Lutes award winning wines during this delightful four course dinner. $45 per person. Reservations recommended, Mission Point (906) 847-3312

7pm A Blooming evening-This concert showcases the blossoming talent of the children in the Suzuki Academy of Kalamazoo and the Barrington Children’s Choir. Ste Anne’s Church

Sunday, June 20, 2010

9am-2pm Sinclair’s Lybster Brunch - Lybster, Scotland is our sister city and Patrick Sinclair built the Fort, bought the Island from the Chippewa for King George was a legendary Celt on Mackinac Island, Patrick Sinclair’s Irish Pub, $8.99 per person

2pm Scottville Clown Band - Budweiser and Mission Point present the Scottville Clown Band whose roots date back to the start of the 1900’s when a musical group of Scottville merchants began to dress as hillbillies and entertained at local carnivals. Mission Point Promenade deck.

3:30pm The Agnes Shine Scottish Tattoo - Marquette Park becomes the stage at the ramparts of Fort Mackinac as we honor the memory of Scottish immigrant and Island resident Alice Shine with music by the Grand Traverse Drum & Pipe Band, Glen Erin Pipe Band & Sault Ste Marie Pipe Band. Listen to the stirring pipe tunes that over centuries have given courage and inspiration on battle fields in every corner of the globe.

5pm Lilac Festival Grand Parade presented by Coca Cola Led by the Andress and Perrault families, direct descendants of Chief Mackinac. Our 2010 Grand Parade Marshall is community volunteer Caroline LaPine and announcers include Terry Braverman, the voice of MSU sports, Terri Ray, afternoon classic rock jock from WKLT and more.

6:30pm Great Turtle Festivals Post Parade Gala – This marks the end of the festival where we select the $10,000 raffle winners ($5,000, $3,000 and $2,000) to support the festival. We encourage everyone to pick up a $100 raffle ticket from the Tourism Bureau to help support the Lilac Festival (only 300 tickets available).

2010 Lilac Festival Poster Winner Announced

2010-04-19T14:53:00.000-07:00

This season, artist Noel Skiba takes first place in the annual Lilac Festival Poster Competition. The theme was Gardens & Gazebos and the judges loved her use of color, line and depth to create this commemorative work of art.
"All the works were incredibly thoughtful and beautiful-it was really tough to choose one over the other" said executive director and art historian Mary McGuire Slevin. "Noel's work just stood out a bit more than and we all felt it would represent the theme and Mackinac Island well" she added.
The works were judged on beauty, color, texture, composition, movement, technical skill and how they best fit the festival theme.

Top Three:

1st Place: Noel Skiba

2nd Place: Diane Neyer

3rd Place: Betty Bea Washburn
Honorable Mentions:

Yvonne Della Moretta

Diane Sprengel

Tad Schieber

Best Non-Theme:

Kevin Barton
The judges for the competition were Marie Steensma, Jack Landres, Sam Barnwell and MaryMcGuire Slevin.

New Lilac Festival Website

2010-02-08T14:40:00.000-08:00

It is official, Great Turtle Festivals has launched a new Mackinac Island Lilac Festival Website at www.mackinacislandlilacfestival.org. Designed in house, the idea was to create an easier navigatble site for visitors to find the information they need for the festival with less navigation.

"Less is more is a mantra that is becoming more and more popular with web designers, it was also time to freshen up our site. We were able to take the feedback from the site users and apply it to our online presence" says Mary McGuire Slevin, executive director of the festival. "We are very happy with the redesign and love the larger images."

All events are posted in text that is formatted for easy printing and the parade applications and lilac festival poster competition forms are now available from one page as well. The new site also incorporates easy ways for users to add the site to their Facebook profiles.

To view the new site visit http://www.mackinacislandlilacfestival.org/

We hope you'll like it!

The Beginning....

2009-09-30T16:25:00.000-07:00

Celebrating Mackinac's lilac collection began in 1949 after a conversation with Evangilene “Ling” Horn and Nurse Stella King who encouraged the then teen and today's Mackinac Island Carriage Tours veterinarian Dr. Bill Chambers to have a parade on Lilac Sunday. The idea was to bring people to the Island to enjoy a great horse drawn parade amidst the lovely lilacs that fragrance the Island in June.

What began as a one day event called the Mackinac Island Lilac Day has blossomed into a ten day festival.

Mackinac Island Lilac Festival Blog

2009-09-30T15:19:00.000-07:00

Greetings from Mackinac Island and thanks for visiting our blog for the Mackinac Island Lilac Festival.

The 61st Annual Mackinac Island Lilac Festival will take place June 11-20, 2010.

The official website for the festival is www.mackinacislandlilacfestival.org.

Come back soon as we'll be sharing information about the festival and our lilacs right here.