Those looking to literally run into the Fourth of July will have a chance to do so with the annual Watermelon Classic in Jackson.
Touted as the largest gathering of 5k runners and walkers in the state, the event is put on by the Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation and benefits the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame & Museum.
This year’s Watermelon Classic begins Friday, July 4, at 7:30 a.m. with a one-mile fun run for kids beginning at 8:45 a.m. Registration closes Thursday, July 3, at 5:15 p.m.
The 5k trail begins outside the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame & Museum and goes west on Lakeland Drive before taking a northward turn on Frontage Road. It then follows Eastover Drive to the east before hitting the Ridgewood Road hill back up to Lakeland Drive and over to the museum. While that final hill is oftentimes a challenge, there’s a festive treat at the end for all who participate.
“With it being the largest 5k in the state, this has become a tradition for so many to start their Fourth of July,” Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame & Museum executive director Andrea Patterson said. “It runs right through the heart of Jackson over Eastover and Ridgewood Drive, whether we like that Ridgewood hill or not, and then, some ice-cold watermelon at the finish line is absolutely a major part of our race.”
The Watermelon Classic was founded in 1997 and is one of the largest yearly fundraisers for the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame & Museum. Patterson expects over 1,500 participants this year, many of whom will be sporting patriotic and watermelon-themed outfits.
To learn more or to register for the race, click here.
