The International Ironworker Festival is an annual event held each summer in Mackinaw City, MI. located on the Straits of Mackinac overlooking the beautiful Mackinaw Bridge. It attracts ironworkers from across the United States and Canada to compete in friendly competition. It is open to the general public, although only ironworkers and retirees can compete in the skilled events. These events include knot tying, rod tying, rivet toss, spud throw, column climb all on Saturday and the World Championship Column Climb on Sunday.  The old-timers events are also held on Sunday.  This years festival will take place August 10th, 11th, and 12th

International Ironworkers Festival

The Mackinac Bridge

The Mackinac Bridge is currently the third longest suspension bridge in the world. The bridge opened to traffic on November 1, 1957. The bridge was officially begun amid proper ceremonies on May 7 & 8, 1954, at St. Ignace and Mackinaw City. The bridge opened to traffic on November 1, 1957 according to schedule, despite the many hazards of marine construction over the turbulent Straits of Mackinac. The last of the Mackinac Bridge bonds were retired July 1, 1986. Fare revenues are now used to operate and maintain the Bridge and repay the State of Michigan for monies advanced to the Authority since the facility opened to traffic in 1957.