Bridgefest was organized to celebrate the anniversary of the Portage Lake Lift Bridge, which officially opened in 1959. The Bridge is a vital link between the communities of Houghton and Hancock, and is a gateway to the rest of the historic Keweenaw Peninsula.

The weekend celebration includes a wide range of events including outdoor concerts, contests, boat tours, sporting events, and the annual Bridgefest parade and Jon Davis Memorial Fireworks. The waterfront is a scenic venue in which to browse exhibits from local artisans, as well as a place to grab a quick snack in between the many activities. Sponsored by the Keweenaw Peninsula Chamber of Commerce, Bridgefest is held in conjunction with the Houghton Rotary Seafood Fest, which provides a variety of delicious foods including live lobster! 

To learn more about the history of the Portage Lake Lift Bridge, you can visit the City of Houghton's Historic Tour online or browse the City of Hancock’s history.