The 5 Mile International Bridge Run on Day 1 is a RUN. You are required to maintain a pace of 15 minutes per mile or faster in order to ensure the International Bridge can open back up in the appropriate time. This is NOT A WALK. Those who walk the entire course and are struggling to maintain pace may be asked to stop and receive a shuttle from the International Bridge Authority. There is a free annual walking event over the International Bridge in late June that usually coincides with Engineers Day. There is a 5K Walk downtown that DOES NOT CROSS THE BRIDGE on Day 2 with its own division.
The 2026 Sault International Festival of Races will take place September 26-27, 2026. Races will begin at 8:00am on both Saturday (5 Mile Bridge Run) and Sunday (Half Marathon, 5K Run, and 5K Walk). For those traveling from Canada make sure to note the bridge will have a specific closing time prior to the race (7:45-9:45am). Give yourself additional time in case of a traffic backup. The last event took place in 2025 which saw 720 participants take part in multiple races. The 5 Mile Bridge Run will run across the International Bridge on day 1 (Saturday) starting and finishing on the historic campus of LSSU. The start/finish area will now be at the LSSU Arts Center. There are views of the Soo Locks, LSSU, the St. Mary's Rapids, passing freighters, and more! There will be a half-marathon and 5k that DO NOT CROSS the International Bridge on Day 2 (Sunday) that will start/finish near the heart of downtown Sault Sainte Marie, Michigan. Participants wanting to participate in both Day 1 and Day 2 races are required to register for each race separately.
You will want to carry an ID in case of a medical emergency. A passport is not required while running but recommended. All citizens traveling from Canada will still need a passport in order to travel into the US. We recommend that participants look into purchasing 1 day international health insurance from their providers. Emergency personnel will transport participants to the nearest hospital (Canada or US) in the case of a health emergency on the bridge during Day 1.