Rhode Races & Events, in partnership with the Bristol Fourth of July Committee, has announced the return of the annual Bristol Independence Rhode Race on Saturday, June 27.
The event offers participants a one-of-a-kind opportunity to experience America’s most patriotic town on foot, running through historic streets fully decked out in their festive summer best. More than just a morning of athletics, the half marathon serves as a powerful engine for local charitable impact, civic celebration, and community wellness.
Starting at 6:30 a.m. at Independence Park, the scenic course winds through historic downtown Bristol, the Town Common, the Herreshoff Marine Museum, and the waterfront campus of Roger Williams University.
To lower the barrier to entry, the popular two-person relay splits the 13.1-mile distance into two manageable segments: Leg 1 (7.5 miles), the Independence Park start to Roger Williams University; and leg 2 (5.6 miles), Roger Williams University to the finish at Independence Park.
A portion of the proceeds directly supports the volunteer-led Bristol Fourth of July Committee, funding the oldest continuous Independence Day celebration in the United States.
“The Independence Rhode Race is a true celebration of community spirit, and we are honored that our event plays a vital role in supporting America’s oldest Fourth of July tradition,” said Susan Rancourt, the Warren resident and Co-Founder of Rhode Races. “By channeling the energy of our running community into regional tourism and fundraising, we are able to support the preservation of Bristol’s vibrant history, unique maritime culture, and local civic organizations. As a local runner, introducing new runners and visitors to Bristol’s famous parade route and time-honored local running routes is a joy for me.”
“The Bristol Fourth of July Committee is incredibly grateful for the partnership and community spirit that Rhode Races brings to our town,” said Ana Barboza Motta, Fourth of July Committee general chairman. “Events like this not only promote health, wellness, and tourism but also shine a spotlight on Bristol’s rich history and vibrant local culture during one of the most meaningful times of the year. We appreciate Rhode Races’ continued support in bringing people together and creating memorable experiences for residents and visitors alike as we celebrate America’s oldest continuous Fourth of July celebration.”
Rhode Races is also proud to welcome back the Mt. Hope High School Cross Country team as a returning charitable partner for this year’s event. This ongoing partnership directly supports the high school athletics program, empowers the next generation of runners, and strengthens the vital, long-standing link between youth athletics and community-wide fitness initiatives.
Beyond financial contributions, the race drives a zero-waste sustainability mission. Rhode Races is partnering with the Eastern Rhode Island Conservation District (ERICD) for a post-race “Plogging” initiative. As runners clear the course, ERICD’s community volunteers will walk and jog segments to collect race trash (and pre-race trash!), leaving the neighborhood streets and coastal paths entirely litter-free.
All finishers receive a commemorative medal and entry to the post-race celebration at Pivotal Brewing.
For more information or to register, visit www.rhoderaces.com. Registration price increase takes effect on June 24.
