Engineers Day 2025 Brings Changes to Public Access and Event Layout

SAULT STE. MARIE, Mich. – The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, in coordination with federal, state, and local public safety partners, is implementing changes to public access for this year’s Engineers Day event on Friday, June 27, 2025.

Out of an abundance of caution, and in order to prioritize public safety, visitor access will be limited to Canal Park. Access in and around active Soo Locks operations will not be allowed.

“We acknowledge this is disappointing and acknowledge the importance of this event to the community, which is why we coordinated closely with our public safety partners to permit the event to still take place,” said Soo Locks Operations Manager LeighAnn Ryckeghem. “All public activities and displays will be concentrated within Canal Park, which includes the observation platform to view vessels and the visitor center.”

These changes are precautionary and aim to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all attendees.

The United States Coast Guard will participate in the event but will not host an open house this year due to updated security protocols.

Engineers Day Public Access Hours – Friday, June 27

  • Canal Park open: 9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

  • Viewing platform open until 10 p.m.

  • Soo Locks Visitor Center open: 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.

“We are continuing the requirement for all bags coming into the Soo Locks to be clear,” said Jason Wojnaroski, Soo Project Office Assistant Operations Manager. “Clear bags will allow park security to quickly inspect bags and assist with making this a fun and safe event for everyone.”

Bag Policy for Engineers Day Visitors:

  • Clear bags must not exceed 12” x 6” x 12”

  • Diaper bags are not allowed

  • Medical bags are allowed

  • Wallets must not have a strap and must be no larger than 4.5” x 6.5”

All attendees are subject to security screening. Prohibited items include firearms, weapons (including knives of any size), drugs, pets (except service animals), and bicycles.

Additional Events – Saturday, June 27
In partnership with the Sault Ste. Marie Convention and Visitors Bureau, Portage Avenue will be closed to vehicle traffic and open to pedestrians and vendors between Ferris Street and Osborn Boulevard from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Other weekend events include:

  • Arts, Crafts and Family Fun Fair hosted by Hospice of the Eastern Upper Peninsula and Superior Health Systems at the City Hall grounds, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

  • Lake Superior State University Center for Freshwater Research and Education, open from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.