Located in Chippewa County in the state of Michigan, the small town of Sault Sainte Marie is home to just over 16,000 residents. Named after the Sault tribe of Native Americans, the town is known for its historical architecture and tight-knit local community. Sault Sainte Marie hosts several annual festivals, celebrations, and tournaments that draw big crowds each year.
Sault Sainte Marie's namesake Native American tribe hosts a pow-wow gathering in early July to celebrate their culture and traditions. This event is free of charge, and open to the public. Tribe members perform traditional pow-wow and Sault tribe dances, and arts and crafts by local artists are available for sale.
Kewadin Casino
2186 Shunk Road
Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783
906-632-0530
Kewadin.com
Held in early August, this arts festival brings in over 70 local and nearby artists to sell paintings, photographs, housewares, and other works of arts and crafts. There is also a craft and game area for children to create free arts and crafts. Admission and parking are free, and there is a trolley on-hand to bring festival goers from the parking lot to the festival.
Sault Summer Arts Festival
Federal Building
209 E. Portage Avenue
Sault Sainte Marie, MI 49783
906-437-5463
Saultarts.org
This state tournament gives walleye fishermen the chance to compete for over $120,000 worth of cash and prizes. Entry is $100 per fishing team, and no more than 120 entries are allowed per fishing location. After making it through qualifying rounds, the top teams compete for the top prize of $10,000 plus a boat and motor. Admission to watch is free, and the championship starts at the Aune-Osborn Boat Launch.
Michigan Walleye Tour State Championship
Aune-Osborn Boat Launch
1225 Riverside Drive
Sault Ste Marie, MI 49783
Michiganwalleyetour.com
The Chippewa County Fair is a county-wide animal talent contest and exhibition just outside of Sault Sainte Marie. From rabbits to dogs to livestock, breeders and owners bring out their top animals for 4-H style judging. Visitors can also enjoy the demolition derby, live entertainment, food, and arts and crafts available for sale. Held in late August, admission is free and open to the public.
Chippewa County Fair
Chippewa County Fairgrounds
Kinross, MI 49752
906-632-3952
Held in late October, this fall festival allows children to do some early trick-or-treating at the local businesses in Sault Sainte Marie. Participating businesses put an orange sign in their windows to let trick-or-treaters know they are giving out treats. There is also a costume contest, free hayrides, and a carnival that kids can participate in. Admission is free and open to the public.
Fall Fest
E. Portage Ave & Ashmun St.
Sault Sainte Marie, MI 49783
906-635-6973
Local businesses and clubs design floats for this annual parade, which ends with the town Christmas tree lighting at the City County Building in downtown Sault Sainte Marie. Held in late October, the town is decorated in Christmas light displays, and holiday treats like warm apple cider are available for festival goers.
Annual Parade of Lights
Parkers Ace Hardware
819 Ashmun Street
Sault Ste. Marie, MI
906-635-6973
