Independence Rhode Race
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Event
The Independence Rhode Race takes place in Bristol, Rhode Island on Saturday, June 27, 2026. The event is held in partnership with the Bristol Fourth of July Committee and runs during the town's Oldest 4th of July Celebration. The race offering includes:
- Half Marathon
- Two-Person Relay (legs: 7.5 miles, 5.6 miles)
- Virtual Half Marathon
The race is R.I. Department of Environmental Management Green-Certified and is directed by an RRCA Certified Race Director.
Course and logistics
The half marathon course starts on Thames Street in downtown Bristol, passes historic homes, the town common and the America’s Cup Museum, follows part of the parade route, travels along the coastline and through Roger Williams University, and finishes at Independence Park with views of the Mt. Hope Bridge and Narragansett Bay. Parts of the course are unpaved and include shell paths along the water.
Course limit for the half marathon is 3.5 hours; an early start option is available for participants who need more time. Aid stations are positioned along the course; some will provide GU Energy gels, Nuun electrolyte drink and bananas. Port-a-potties will be at every aid station. Packet pick-up is scheduled in the days before the race at local locations, with on-site pick-up available on race morning. Post-race amenities include free photos, finisher medals, gender- and race-specific tech shirts, a recovery zone, and a post-race party at Pivotal Brewing (500 Wood St). Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
