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

  • Image of white and blue American Legion building with flags out front.

    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

  • 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.

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.

Mackinaw Area Public Library building with trees in the background.

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!

Close-up of blackened wooden planks reinforced with gray metal brackets and bolts.

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