The last Friday in June is when the annual Engineers’ Day in Sault Sainte Marie, Michigan and Sault Sainte Marie, Ontario is typically held. Today, June 26th, is when it would have been held this year. Unfortunately, it has been cancelled this summer due to the current COVID-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic that we are currently dealing with worldwide.

I have been to this a few times and have always found it to be fascinating, as this is the one day out of the year where you get to explore the Soo Locks, one of the busiest locks in the world, more in depth. Maritime trade in the Great Lakes has such a powerful economic impact in the region, but also has a tumultuous history.

Some of the things you can partake in during this annual event include walking across the mighty Soo Locks’ walls, strolling the Soo Locks Park, exploring the U.S. Coast Guard Station as well as other buildings and special exhibits, and even enjoying the Arts, Crafts and Family Fun Fair.

There is also the International Bridge Walk, where you can take in the scenery during the 2.8 mile walk from Sault Sainte Marie, Michigan to Sault Sainte Marie, Ontario. This walk itself is free, but there is a nominal fee to take the bus back. Since you would be walking internationally, you would need to comply with the WHTI (Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative regulations and have proper identification.

So much to pack in! If you are ever traveling to or through Michigan towards the end of June down the road and have an interest in the maritime industry, this is definitely an event NOT to be missed! Seeing that travel is discouraged during this pandemic (hoping and praying for this pandemic to end soon, most importantly for the health and well-being of all of us but also because I know so many people (myself included) are itching to explore again!), perhaps the next best thing to actually being there in person would be to watch the area via their local WEBCAMS.