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We invite you to be part of a moment where history, celebration, and connection beautifully intertwine. Explore our 2026 Newsletter to learn more.

Grand Distillers Weekend with Ethanology and Maker's Mark

Available Friday, August 28, 2026 - Sunday, August 30, 2026

Description

Join us at Grand Hotel for a memorable celebration of craft spirits. The Grand Distillers Weekend features representatives from Ethanology, an environmentally focused distillery committed to encapsulating the diversity of Northern Michigan agriculture, and Dr. Blake Mayfield, Master Distiller from Maker’s Mark, a premium American bourbon whisky rooted in tradition and craftsmanship founded by Bill Samuels Sr.

The weekend begins with a Friday Welcome Reception on the iconic Front Porch, featuring themed cocktails. On Saturday afternoon, guests enjoy an interactive Lunch-a-Round, sampling spirits paired with curated tasting stations. Saturday evening continues with a four-course dinner, paired with a unique themed spirit or cocktail for a cohesive journey of flavor and craftsmanship.

The weekend concludes on Sunday with the option to attend the fourth-annual Spirits of Mackinac, a handcrafted cocktail and bartender celebration from 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM at participating island venues. Join in the celebration of island mixology showcasing inventive cocktails from Mackinac Island’s finest bartenders. It’s the perfect finale to a weekend of rich flavors, warm company, and timeless Grand Hotel charm.

Package Includes:

  • Grand Hotel accommodations
  • Breakfast and dinner daily
  • All resort amenities
  • Welcome amenity
  • Friday evening Welcome Reception
  • Saturday afternoon Interactive Tasting Journey Lunch-a-Round
  • Saturday evening journey through four unique cocktails paired with a four-course dinner
  • Sunday Spirits of Mackinac event included from 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM

About Ethanology

Ethanology is a Northern Michigan distillery dedicated to crafting exceptional spirits with intention, artistry, and sustainability. Using hyper-local grains and botanicals sourced from family-owned farms, the distillery embraces a vertically integrated, environmentally conscious approach that celebrates the region’s rich agricultural diversity. Every bottle reflects Ethanology’s commitment to quality, innovation, and fostering a meaningful connection between its craft, its community, and the land.

About Maker’s Mark

Established in 1953, Maker’s Mark is a premium American bourbon whisky rooted in tradition and craftsmanship. Founded by Bill Samuels Sr., the brand was designed to stand apart through its smooth character and meticulous production process. Each bottle reflects a dedication to time-honored techniques, quality ingredients, and a philosophy that values flavor over volume.

View Grand Hotel Policies and Information >> to learn more about our evening dress code, luggage process, and more.

*Subject to 6% Michigan sales tax, 4% Mackinac Island assessment, 19.5% resort fee, and a $16.00 per person, per stay, baggage-handling charge. Regular children’s rates apply. Extra charges apply for additional adults over double occupancy rates. Dates are subject to availability, 30-day cancellation policy applies.

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Schedule of Events

Friday

August 28, 2026

Welcome Cocktail Reception

6:00 PM – 7:00 PM on the West Front Porch

Dinner

6:30 PM – 8:45 PM in the Main Dining Room

Saturday

August 29, 2026

Breakfast

7:30 AM – 10:00 AM in the Main Dining Room 

Grand Hotel History Lecture with Resident Historian- Bob Tagatz

10:00 AM in Brighton Pavilion

Strolling Lunch

11:30 AM – 12:30 PM in the Grand Pavilion

Whiskey Lab with Makers Mark & Ethanology

12:30 PM – 2:00 PM in the Brighton Pavilion

Pre-Dinner Reception

6:00 PM – 6:30 PM in the Geranium Bar   

Private Pairing Dinner

6:30 PM – 9:00 PM in the Grand Pavilion

Sunday

August 30, 2026

Breakfast

7:30 AM – 10:00 AM in the Main Dining Room

Spirits of Mackinac - Bartender Exhibition

2:00 PM – 4:00 PM at Gate House

The Celebrate Michigan Sale is Here!

Our most anticipated sale of the year has arrived! The annual Celebrate Michigan Sale is officially live, offering a limited-time opportunity to experience the timeless elegance of Grand Hotel and the beauty of Mackinac Island at a special rate. Don’t miss your chance to save and make plans for an unforgettable escape to America’s Summer Place.