1001 NW 34th Street, Gainesville FL
Saturday, July 4th, 2026
🍉 Gainesville’s Favorite Fourth of July Tradition
Start your Independence Day with 3 miles, rolling hills, and a slice of watermelon at the finish.
The Melon Run is one of the Florida Track Club's largest events of the year and as much a part of July 4th as BBQ and fireworks. This community favorite brings runners of all ages together for a festive, fun, and slightly hilly celebration.
🍉 The Race
• 3-mile rolling course
• Age-group awards in 10-year increments (top 3 in each receive a watermelon)
• Post-race refreshments (yes, more watermelon)
👑 Bonus Events
• Free ½-mile kids run
• Crowning of the Melon Run King and Queen after the races
👕 Registration Details
Register by June 19 at 11:59 PM to select a race tank top.
• No tank tops available after June 19, 2026
• Price (no tank option) increases after June 19
• Price increases again after June 27
• Race tanks will not be held if you do not attend
👟 Youth Pricing (12 & Under)
• $25 regular registration
• $15 no-tank option
Pricing automatically adjusts based on age on July 4, 2026
Children receive the additional discount with a family membership.
📍 Race Day Information
Start Time: 8:00 AM
Location: Albert “Ray” Massey Westside Park
1001 NW 34th Street
Gainesville, FL 32605
Parking: Use the large lot on the west side of the park off NW 34th Street.
Bib Pick-Up: Begins at 7:00 a.m. in front of the pool near the finish line (east side of the park)
⚠️ Race Day Registration = Online Only
Register online through 7:30 AM on race morning using your phone or computer, then pick up your bib.
• No in-person registration assistance
• No paper forms
• No in-person payments
💳 FTC Member Discount
FTC Members:
Log in to your FTC account and click the "Local Races" tab for the discount code. Enter that code on the payment page during registration.
Not a member yet? Join the Florida Track Club and take part in 9 free races and 3 discounted events each year.
Annual Membership Rates:
• Individual: $40
• Family: $65
• Student: $25
• Senior (65+): $25 individual / $40 family
(Email us to set up Senior membership.)
Three miles. Rolling hills. Watermelon at the finish.
There’s no better way to kick off the Fourth of July in Gainesville. 🇺🇸🍉
