National Watermelon Day Run
Hartford, WI's National Watermelon Day Run offers a sweet summer celebration with multiple distances and post-race watermelon.
Race Date
Aug 1, 2026
Location
Hartford, WI
Quick facts
- Date
- Saturday, August 1, 2026
- Location
- Hartford, Wisconsin
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi) + 13.1 Miles, 6.2 Miles, 3.1 Miles, 0.6 Miles
- Course
- Loop Course
- Terrain
- Trail
- USATF certified
- Not listed
- Finishers on record
- 920
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
The National Watermelon Day Run in Hartford, Wisconsin, transforms a summer celebration into a runner's delight. This event, first run in 2019 and now in its seventh edition, draws participants from around 16 states, with recent fields numbering about 170 finishers. The growing event sees about 21% of runners returning in subsequent years, testament to its unique charm.
Runners can choose from a half marathon, 10K, or 5K, ensuring a distance for every level. The course is noted for its shaded trails, offering a refreshing escape from the summer heat. While the focus is on fun, the half marathon is a certified course, and the flat terrain with minimal elevation gain makes it conducive to good times, with typical winning times around 85 minutes.
The true reward, beyond a potential personal best, is the post-race watermelon. This iconic treat, along with a T-shirt, makes for a memorable and satisfying finish line experience, perfect for families and runners alike.
Race-provided description
National Watermelon Day Run 🍉🏃♀️ Celebrate summer’s sweetest day with a refreshing run or walk at the National Watermelon Day Run! Whether you’re here to race, stroll, or just enjoy a slice of fun, this event is the perfect way to beat the heat and celebrate all things watermelon. Event Highlights: Distance Options: 5K, 10K, or Half Marathon—something for every level of runner or walker.Post-Race Watermelon: Cool off and refresh with juicy, ice-cold watermelon slices at the finish line.Scenic Course: Enjoy a beautiful, shaded trail that keeps you close to nature.Family-Friendly Fun: Bring the whole crew for a day of running, walking, and watermelon-filled memories. Whether you’re a competitive runner or just in it for the watermelon, this fun-filled event will leave you smiling, satisfied, and a little sticky. Join us for the National Watermelon Day Run—a sweet way to celebrate summer! 🍉🎉
Logistics
Race Day
Saturday, August 1, 2026
Start Time
8:00 AM
Giveaway
T-Shirt
Start Location
3544 Kettle Moraine Rd, Hartford, WI, 53027
Course Info
Course Type
Loop Course
Terrain
trail
Scenery
Forest
Surface
Dirt Trail
Difficulty
Ultra-Flat
Net Drop/km
0 m (Flat)
Separation
0.0%
Also Offers
Course Map
3 other maps for this race
Quality Score
Standout667 years running
~142 finishers a year
growing or steady
21% returning runners
3 timing sources · 3 photos
runners from 16 states
winner 1:25:04
typical high 81°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
63°
Afternoon (High)
81°
Hot conditions — adjust pace expectations, prioritize hydration
0.1"
Precipitation
9 mph
Wind
71%
Humidity
Historical Finish Times
How 920 finishers actually crossed the line across 7 years.
Most recent
2025
Total finishers
920
Median time
2:20:01
Latest turnout
165
States
28
Turnout by year
2019–2025
Hover the histogram to inspect specific finish times.
Race Photos
Frequently asked
When is the National Watermelon Day Run?
The National Watermelon Day Run is held on Saturday, August 1, 2026, starting at 8:00 AM.
Where does the National Watermelon Day Run take place?
It takes place in Hartford, Wisconsin.
What distances does the National Watermelon Day Run offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles), plus 13.1 Miles, 6.2 Miles, 3.1 Miles, 0.6 Miles.
Is the National Watermelon Day Run course flat and good for a PR?
The National Watermelon Day Run is a ultra-flat, loop course course.
How many people run the National Watermelon Day Run?
HalfRuns has finish records for 920 runners who have completed the National Watermelon Day Run.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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