Pursuit of Happiness 5K
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Pursuit of Happiness 5K : Exeter, New Hampshire
The Pursuit of Happiness is the inaugural 5K race held on July 11, 2026, hosted by the American Independence Center as part of events marking the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. The measured loop course is 5K (3.1 miles) and begins and ends on Water Street in historic downtown Exeter near the intersection of Water Street and Center Street.
The route passes the Exeter Bandstand, the Old Town Hall, and the Town House Common where the Declaration was first read to New Hampshire citizens in July 1776. The course is described as very flat with a small rise off Water Street that leads to a downhill finish.
Race logistics include packet pick-up at the Ladd-Gilman House under a pop-up tent on Friday, July 10 from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. and on Saturday morning from 6:00 to 7:30 a.m. Race registration is available at those times for a stated fee. Timing is chip-based and provided by Granite State Racing Services; the timing chip is attached to the race bib.
Amenities noted include on-course and nearby restroom facilities, nearby parking options within a short walk of the start and finish, a marked bag drop at the registration table, and post-race bottled water, snacks, and fruit. The race coincides with the American Independence Festival and the original Dunlap Broadside is on display at the museum near the finish. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
