The Grand Falls Running - Potato Festival returns to Grand-Sault, New Brunswick on June 28th, inviting runners and walkers alike to explore the scenic terrain of this charming community nestled along the Saint John River. This inaugural event is a collaboration between the annual Grand Falls Potato Festival and local enthusiasts who are eager to showcase their town’s beauty through sport.
As participants lace up their shoes at the start line on Rue Chapel Street in Grand-Sault, they’ll find themselves stepping into a world where rolling hills meet historic trails under the watchful gaze of the Saint John River. The event unfolds along the traffic-controlled streets and stretches of the Trans Canada Trail that wind gracefully through this picturesque locale. On race day, the air is crisp with morning dew and carries the scent of freshly dug soil from nearby farms, setting a serene yet invigorating tone for both distances.
This year’s Grand Falls Running - Potato Festival marks not just another running event but also an opportunity to connect deeply with the community that celebrates its rich agricultural heritage. While this edition will be the first official race in collaboration with the festival, it builds on a long-standing tradition of celebrating local culture and history through various festivities throughout June. Participants can look forward to interacting with fellow runners at the branded swag station, cheering friends or family at the finish line near Potato Festival grounds Bistro, and enjoying post-race celebrations that include free food vouchers and custom medals.
10KM
10km • Start: 09:00:00 • Fee: $52.46
5KM
5km • Start: 09:00:00 • Fee: $46.89
The Grand Falls Running - Potato Festival course offers two meticulously crafted routes: a 5km fun run/walk and an extended 10km challenge. Both courses begin from the heart of the festival grounds at Rue Chapel Street, where participants are greeted with clear signage guiding them through controlled intersections toward the fast and flat main section along the Trans Canada Trail. For those tackling the shorter distance, the turnaround point is marked near a historic train track bridge, ensuring runners enjoy an equal amount of scenic beauty on their outbound and return journey.
As for the 10km route, it continues beyond this midpoint, offering additional kilometers through varied terrain that includes stretches of soft trails alongside industrial areas. Runners will be treated to water stations along both routes but are encouraged to carry hydration as needed due to limited self-serve options. The finish line returns all participants back to their starting point near the festival grounds Bistro, where they can bask in a community atmosphere rich with local pride and camaraderie.
In June, Grand-Sault typically experiences mild temperatures that average around 16 degrees Celsius but can range from chilly mornings at about 12 degrees up to warmer afternoons reaching into the low twenties. The feel of humidity levels averaging near 77% ensures a comfortable yet noticeable dampness in the air. Runners should anticipate occasional breezes blowing across open sections, which might vary between calm and gusty conditions depending on daily weather patterns.
Registration for this unique event can be completed at https://raceroster.com/events/2026/113769/grand-falls-running-potato-festival. Early bird pricing is available online until June 24th, with rates increasing thereafter to accommodate last-minute registrants who will incur additional administrative costs for same-day pick up and on-site processing.
Participants should plan to arrive at the race kit pickup location located at 1 Rue Chapel Street in Grand Falls from Saturday, June 27th between 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm or Sunday morning starting at 7:30 am. For those unable to pick up their own kits beforehand, a designated area will be available on race day for family members or friends to collect belongings.
All runners are advised that the start line is located precisely where Rue Chapel Street intersects with Bistro Avenue in Grand Falls, NB E3Z 2Z6. Age requirements apply; participants must have reached at least age 14 by June 28th to register and compete safely within this year’s inaugural edition.
The Grand Falls Running - Potato Festival on June 28th is more than just a race day; it's an invitation into the heart of Grand-Sault, where every step along scenic trails connects you with local history, community spirit, and natural beauty. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this special event that celebrates both athletic achievement and cultural heritage in equal measure.
