Independence Day Run 2026
The Independence Day Run 2026 takes place on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at Fox River Park in Waukesha, Wisconsin. Located at W264 S4500 River Road, this mixed-terrain event offers a combination of forest trails with elevation changes and paved sections along the Fox River Trail. Participants can expect typical late June weather in Waukesha, which often features warm temperatures and moderate humidity, making it ideal for outdoor athletic activities. The event features various distances ranging from a children's run to a half marathon, supporting the Silver Circle Foundation, Inc.
What distances and categories are available?
- →Kids 1K Run (ages 12 and under; parent must be registered)
- →5K Run
- →5K Walk
- →5K Ruck
- →10K Run
- →10K Ruck
- →Half Marathon (including an early start option)
What is the race day schedule?
- →6:45 AM: Packet Pickup Opens
- →7:00 AM: Half Marathon Early Start
- →7:45 AM: Kids 1K Run
- →8:00 AM: 5K, 10K, and Half Marathon Start
- →9:30 AM: Half Marathoners must have started their final lap
- →10:30 AM: Finish Line Breakdown
- →11:00 AM: Course Closes
How much does registration cost?
- →Half Marathon Early Start: $55 (not eligible for age group awards)
- →Half Marathon: $50
- →10K (Run or Ruck): $37.50
- →5K (Run, Walk, or Ruck): $37.50
- →Kids 1K Run: FREE
Note: Prices increase after June 12, 2026, at 11:59 PM CDT. The T-shirt guarantee ends at noon on June 12.
Where can I find the course maps?
- →5K Course Map: Mapmyrun ↗
- →10K Course Map: Mapmyrun ↗
- →Half Marathon Course Map: Mapmyrun ↗
What are the course details and terrain?
The course is mixed-terrain, consisting of forest trails with elevation changes and paved sections of the Fox River Trail.
- →5K: Winds through a forest canopy with elevation changes.
- →10K: Consists of two laps of the 5K course. Runners must not cross the finish line until both laps are completed.
- →Half Marathon: Consists of two loops. Each loop includes one loop inside the park on the 5K trail course and one out-and-back section on the paved Fox River Trail.
- →Course Markings: Navigation is aided by 12x12 turn arrows, 3-foot tall course signs, and orange cones. There is no traditional trail tape used.
What awards are presented?
- →Overall Awards: Custom awards by Ridgeway Woodworks for the top male and female in each distance.
- →Age Group Awards: Top 3 male and female finishers in 5-year age increments (starting at 0–14).
- →Finisher Woodle: A magnet woodle keepsake provided to every finisher.
- →Average Joe & Jane Awards: Presented to the male and female participants who finish exactly in the middle of the total registered field.
What amenities are provided for participants?
- →Post-race refreshment: A free fresh fruit bar featuring pickle juice, lemon water, and cucumber water.
Are there any important participant notes?
- →Sizing: Female race shirts tend to run small; sizing up is recommended.
- →Walkers: All distances are open to walkers. The walk division is timed and non-competitive; while walkers do not receive age group awards, they will receive the finisher woodle.
- →Charity: The event supports the Silver Circle Foundation, Inc., which aids firefighters, police officers, veterans, and troops overseas.