Mackinac Island Lilac Festival

Arrive in Elkhart, Indiana, and make yourself at home before meeting your Tour Manager and fellow quilting enthusiasts at this evening’s Welcome Meeting. Take a little time to explore the surroundings and get excited for the days ahead. As you settle in, spend time admiring the local art installations that capture the spirit of this charming city.

Start your day with a hearty breakfast, then head to the charming town of Howe, Indiana for a creative adventure! Step into the beautifully restored Kingsbury Art & Event Center for a hands-on, instructor-led barn quilt design workshop—no experience needed, just bring your love of color and fun. Afterward, explore the center’s quaint shops filled with handcrafted goodies, treat yourself to a scoop of local ice cream, or strike a pose in front of the cheerful Howe mural—picture-perfect memories await!

After breakfast, explore charming downtown Shipshewana and start shopping for quilting cottons and supplies at The Cotton Corner. Next, at Yoder Department Store, shop for handmade Amish goods, then browse the luscious fabrics and quilts at Lolly’s Fabrics. After an Amish rug-weaving demo, enjoy an Amish Quilts trunk show. Don’t forget to capture memorable moments and share stories with fellow quilters. Tonight, savor a home-cooked Amish wedding feast with a Plain family and learn about the peace and simplicity of the Amish lifestyle as you indulge in homemade pies for dessert.

This morning, embark on a scenic drive along Indiana’s backroads to see the vibrant Quilt Gardens. Pick up some gardening tips from the experts who cultivate these living masterpieces. Next, stop by Das Dutchman Essenhaus, where you can purchase locally crafted quilts, fabrics, and notions at The Quilt Shop. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy a home-cooked Dutch meal at the restaurant or a visit to the attached bakery for a homemade sweet treat. Later, continue to Grand Rapids, where you’ll check into a downtown all-suite hotel. End your day relaxing at the evening Manager’s Reception.

Take in the scenic drive north, making a stop in charming Petoskey for lunch and exploring on your own. This historic town offers a variety of shops and cafés for you to discover before arriving in Mackinac City and boarding the ferry to enchanting Mackinac Island. Experience the town-wide Lilac Festival celebration as you board a horse-drawn carriage upon arrival. Marvel at the iconic Grand Hotel and enjoy your carriage ride through town, soaking in the island’s abundant lilacs. Tonight, after exploring the boutiques, gardens, and lilac festivities at your waterside resort, unwind watching the sunset, reflecting on your unforgettable journey so far.

Savor sunrise views at breakfast before joining a history tour of our historic, landmark hotel. After, wander downtown to discover the annual Lilac Festival’s planting seminars and Lilac Queen coronation then sample famous fudge or enjoy an elegant lunch on the porch of the Grand Hotel. Spend the afternoon browsing local shops for unique souvenirs and keepsakes. Tonight, celebrate the trip with fellow travel companions at your customary Farewell Dinner, sharing highlights and favorite moments that enriched your quilting adventure.

Board the ferry back to the St. Ignace witnessing the “Mighty Mac” suspension bridge, the longest in the Western hemisphere.  Exchange addresses with new friends on your departure transfer to Cherry Capital Airport – Traverse City. Before boarding your flight, make sure to sample a slice of local cherry pie and cherish the memories and friendships you’ve made during this incredible quilting adventure.