Winter Park Watermelon 5k
On Thursday, July 4, kick-off your Independence Day in an exciting, energetic, and delicious way at the Watermelon 5k sponsored by AdventHealth. The annual Winter Park race welcomes everyone to celebrate patriotism, athleticism, and watermelons in support of our military veterans.
Race Specifics
Located at 251 Park Avenue South in Winter Park, FL, the Watermelon 5k begins at 7:30 a.m. The race will be run on a USATF-certified, 3.1-mile course through the beautiful streets of Winter Park. Participants are encouraged to arrive at the Park Avenue starting line at least 45 minutes to an hour early. The Watermelon 5k is also a walker-friendly event. However, organizers encourage 5k runners and walkers to maintain a pace that allows race completion within one hour. After the first hour, race officials will direct slower racers to the sidewalk.
Entry fees for the Watermelon 5k cost:
- $30 through June 22
- $35 from June 23 – July 3
- $40 on the day of race
Participants age 17 and under and those age 65 and over can receive $10 off through July 3.
Free Kids’ Run
The event is also hosting a free kids’ run for all children starting at 8:45 a.m. Children will be placed in age appropriate groups and challenged to run distances ranging from 100 to 400 yards. Participants can be registered on race day and the first 150 kids to register will receive a free T-shirt.
13th Annual Watermelon Eating Contest
Following the race, Track Shack will be sponsoring a watermelon eating contest at 8:30 a.m. Of those who register on race day at the Track Shack tent, only three males and three females will be randomly chosen to participate. All six participants will receive a Corkcicle canteen, while the top male and female winners will receive watermelon-themed prizes.
Supporting the Troops
Through July 2, military personnel and family can receive a $10 entry fee discount and a special bib. As a thank you for their service, those age 18 and over will be automatically entered in the Military Appreciation Staycation from Rosen Hotels with prizes including a 2-Night hotel stay at the Rosen Centre and $100 to spend at the hotel’s Everglades Restaurant. The winner will be chosen at the event.
Nearby Accommodations
A Rosen Hotel and Walt Disney World Good Neighbor Hotel®, Rosen Lake Buena Vista is an ideal place to stay to enjoy all of Orlando’s Independence Day celebrations. Our central location makes it easy travel to and from attractions and events across Orlando. Contact us at 407-996-7300 (or click the red button in the upper right hand corner) to book your stay today.