The New Riverside Barn Park, Bluffton SC
Thursday, July 2nd, 2026
Bluffton Independence Day 5K
Kick off your Independence Day festivities with the Bluffton Independence Day 5K! Join us on Thursday, July 2nd at 7:00 PM at the New Riverside Barn Park for an evening run, jog, or walk through Bluffton's newest parks. This exciting race is the first event in the Town’s Independence Day Celebration, making it the perfect way to start the holiday fun!
Post-Race Party
- Live music: Enjoy vibrant performances after the race.
- Beer: Refreshing beverages to celebrate.
- Food trucks: Delicious food options available.
- Awards ceremony: Celebrate the winners of the race.
Race for a Cause
This stroller- and dog-friendly 5K benefits the Mayor’s “Stay Safe, Bluffton!” campaign and provides student scholarships to promote safe driving in Bluffton and Beaufort County.
Free Kid's Fun Run - "Chase the Chief"
Calling all kids 8 and under! Join us for the “Chase the Chief” Kids Fun Run — a fun run around the park where kids will try to catch Bluffton's Chief of Police!
- Fun: It's all about fun, smiles, and lots of laughs.
- Prizes: All participants will receive a prize!
- Attire: Bring the kids, wear your red, white, and blue.
- Tradition: Get ready for a fun Independence Day tradition!
Patriotic Costume Contest
Show off your red, white, and blue! Dress in your best patriotic gear for a chance to win our Patriotic Costume Contest.
- Creativity: Stars, stripes, Uncle Sam hats, tutus, capes—the more creative the better!
- Grand Prize: The winner will receive the Grand Prize.
- Spirit: Have fun, be creative, and show your American spirit!
The Mayor’s Cup
The top overall male and female winners will have their names engraved on the Mayor’s Cup: a prestigious trophy displayed at Bluffton Town Hall. This award symbolizes the Town’s commitment to safe and mindful driving for all ages.
Swag
The first 400 registrants will receive a Bluffton Independence Day 5K race shirt.
Awards
- Mayor’s Cup: Overall male & female winners
- Custom medals: Top 3 in each division: 12U, 13-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70-79, 80.
- Top 3 Dogs: Also recognized in the awards.
Packet Pickup
Date: Wednesday, July 1st
Time: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: New Riverside Red Barn Park (30 Red Barn Dr. Bluffton, SC 29910)
After Party
Celebrate with live music, food trucks, beer, and giveaways—the perfect way to keep the Independence Day vibes going strong!
Keep the Celebration Going
The fun doesn’t stop there! Come back the next day for the Independence Day Pre-Party at Martin and DuBois Parks, followed by the Town’s spectacular fireworks displays at Oyster Factory Park and Wright Family Park.
Pre-Party: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Fireworks: At dusk
Don’t miss out! Gather your family, friends, and pups for this unforgettable holiday tradition in beautiful downtown Bluffton!
For more information, visit the race's official page at Bluffton Independence Day 5K.
