The Sault International Festival of Races offers running and walking events across three distances: 1 mile, 5 miles, and a half marathon. The event takes place on September 26, 2026, in Sault Sainte Marie, Michigan, with the venue located at 650 W. Easterday and a typical start time of 8:00 AM. Entry fees range from $20 to $60 depending on the distance selected. If you can't make it to Michigan in person, the race organizers provide a virtual participation option, allowing you to complete your chosen distance on your own schedule. This flexibility makes it accessible for athletes traveling to the area or those managing training around other commitments.
From the Race Organizer
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.
Hotels Near This Race
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Sault International Festival of Races 2026 — Sault Sainte Marie, MI
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Race Travel Insurance
Don't forget travel insurance for September 26.
You've trained for months and booked a trip to Sault Sainte Marie, MI.
A pre-race injury, a delayed flight, or a family emergency can derail the whole thing.
Travel insurance can help cover your race entry fee, hotel, and flights if you can't make it,
and may cover medical costs if something goes wrong on the course. Plans typically only run
5-7% of your total trip cost — and running events are covered under standard plans with no
additional coverage needed.
Trip cancellation up to 100% of prepaid costs
Running events covered under standard plans — no add-ons needed
Trip interruption up to 150% of non-refundable costs
When is Sault International Festival of Races 2026 — Sault Sainte Marie, MI?
Sault International Festival of Races 2026 — Sault Sainte Marie, MI takes place on September 26, 2026. The race is held in Sault Sainte Marie, Michigan.
Where is Sault International Festival of Races 2026 — Sault Sainte Marie, MI held?
Sault International Festival of Races 2026 — Sault Sainte Marie, MI is held at 650 W. Easterday in Sault Sainte Marie, Michigan.
Where can I find hotels near Sault International Festival of Races 2026 — Sault Sainte Marie, MI?
RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in Sault Sainte Marie. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.
