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Date:
Sat, Jul 04, 2026 at 7:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Location:
Rockford, Illinois
61101
United States
OpenStreetMap Google Maps
Links:
runsignup.com
Tags:
1 Miles 2 Miles 4.97 Miles 8k Run Walk

Join us for the Lifescape Community Services 4th of July Classic Run/Walk in downtown Rockford! This year's Start/Finish Line is on N. Water St. in front of the Riverview Ice House.

Registration ends on Friday, July 3, 2026!

T-shirt sizes are not guaranteed after June 5!

Register by the end of April, 2026 for your early bird discount!

This race is in memory of Joe Marino and his contributions to Rockford's 4th of July celebration and to our community.

The Lifescape 4th of July Classic Run/Walk is an Independence Day tradition! This run is for everyone, whether you are an experienced runner, this is your first race, or you are just looking for a fun event to do with your family. This race is a wonderful way to celebrate our nation and support older adults and adults with disabilities in our community.

Runners have the choice of running an 8k, a 2-mile, or participating in the 1-mile Family Fun Walk. All runners will receive race swag, including finisher medals, stylish one of a kind run T-shirts, and....BREAKFAST! After the run, all participants are invited to make the short walk to the Downtown Rockford City Pavilion (Where City Market is held) for a FREE Post Run Pancake Breakfast!

Check out our 2019 promo video to get a feel for the day's events: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AScCeDzzo_I

All proceeds benefit Lifescape's programs and services for older adults and adults with disabilities, including Meals on Wheels, Adult Protective Services, the Adult Day Program, Transportation Services, Senior Choice Information & Assistance, Senior Mental Health, Health & Wellness Services, AmeriCorps Seniors Retired and Senior Volunteer Program, and Comprehensive Care Coordination.

For more information on Lifescape, please check out our website at: www.lifescapeservices.org.

RACE PRIZES:

Prizes will go to the overall elapsed fastest times. Cash prize will be mailed after the event. (Student athletes may NOT accept cash prizes. If they do, they lose eligibility to play.)

Overall 8k - Male

  1. $100

  2. $50 Fleet Feet Gift Card

  3. $25 Fleet Feet Gift Card

Overall 8k - Female

  1. $100

  2. $50 Fleet Feet Gift Card

  3. $25 Fleet Feet Gift Card

Overall - 2-Mile - Male

  1. $100

  2. $50 Fleet Feet Gift Card

  3. $25 Fleet Feet Gift Card

Overall - 2-Mile - Female

  1. $100

  2. $50 Fleet Feet Gift Card

  3. $25 Fleet Feet Gift Card

Masters - Male and Female

  1. $25 Fleet Feet Gift Card

Race Day Registration is NOT available!

PACKET PICKUP

Dates will be determined in early 2026.

More races nearby

  • Arny Johnson 5k - 10 mile [rockfordroadrunners.org] [Register at runsignup.com]

    Sat, Apr 25, 2026 at 8:00 AM

    Description

    The 40th Annual Arny Johnson run/walk will be held on Saturday, April 25, 2026, 8 am at Zenith Park Way Trail Head (5451 Zenith Pkwy Loves, Park, IL 61111)

    The race is the same location as last year,...

    The 40th Annual Arny Johnson run/walk will be held on Saturday, April 25, 2026, 8 am at Zenith Park Way Trail Head (5451 Zenith Pkwy Loves, Park, IL 61111)

    The race is the same location as last year, starting and finishing near the Zenith Park Way Trail Head. Both races will go out along Willow Creek Path and into Rock Cut State Park. Corse map down below!

    There is a 5k and a 10-mile run/walk. The races will be a gun start all at the same time.

    This is a Kid Friendly Race. All 18 and under are $15 (price adjustment at check out.)

    There will be three water stops for the 10-mile course. When leaving and re-entering the Willow Creek Path near the dam, you will pass it twice. And near the north entrance to the park where the paved path crosses the road.

    RACE CHARITY: Once again, the Fire Department Coffee Foundation will be the charity for the race. They are supporting firefighters who are sick or injured on the job. You can find out more about them here: https://www.firedeptcoffee.com/pages/charity

    RACE SWAG: this year we will have several options to pick form so you can chose the swag you want at packet pick up.

    AWARDS: Age Group Awards: 8 & under, 9-10, 11-12, 13-14 and 5-year increments up to 100+

    There will be an awards ceremony for just the first-place male and female soon after they finish. All other finishers can check with the awards table to receive their award. (Awards will not be mailed)

    Early Packet Pickup: Friday, the 24th of April at Fire Department Coffee from 10 am - 2 pm 811 W Riverside Blvd, Rockford, IL 61103

    Race Day Packet Pickup: Saturday, April 25st, from 7:00 am to 7:50 am at Zenith Park Way Trail Head (5451 Zenith Pkwy Loves, Park, IL 61111)

    Race Day Sign-up: There will be a race day sign-up, but the price will be $50 for the 5K and $60 for the 10M.

    Course Map: HERE

    Course Records:

    5K - M Lueshen, Charlie 19:43 (set 2025)

    5K - W Torres, Deysi 26:06 (set 2025)

    10m - M Anderson, Kyle 1:02:49 (set 2025)

    10m - WCarlson, Kaylin 1:05:19 (set 2025)

    *** Please note: Willow Creek Path is narrow. For runner safety and due to our insurance requirements, we cannot allow strollers or pets.

    9.9 km from Rockford
    5451 Zenith Pkwy, Machesney Park, Illinois, 61111, United States
    OpenStreetMap Google Maps

    5k 10 Miles Run Trail Walk

  • 2026 Harlem Huskie Hustle 5K Walk/Run & 1 Mile Walk/Run and Kids Fun Run [runsignup.com]

    Sat, May 16, 2026 at 8:30 AM

    Description

    **$20.00 EARLY BIRD RATE FOR 5K through APRIL 30th - price will increase to $25 May 1st

    Race shirt guaranteed through April 30th for 5K and 1 mile

    Get your running / walking shoes laced up!! The...

    **$20.00 EARLY BIRD RATE FOR 5K through APRIL 30th - price will increase to $25 May 1st

    Race shirt guaranteed through April 30th for 5K and 1 mile

    Get your running / walking shoes laced up!! The Harlem Wellness Program is excited to host the 2026 Huskie Hustle 5K Walk or Run, 1 Mile Walk or Run, & Kids Fun Run on Saturday, May 16, 2026 at Harlem High School Stadium (Sorry, pets are not allowed in the stadium or on school grounds).

    EVENT SCHEDULE

    8:00 am - Kick off with National Anthem

    8:15 am Line Up / 8:30 am Start - Kids Fun Run (age groups: 4 and under; 5-6; 7-8; 9-10; and 11-12)

    8:45 am Line up / 9:00 am - 5K runners/walkers & 1 mile walkers/runners

    line up and starting order: 5K runners, 5K walkers & 1 mile walkers/runners

    10:15 am - Awards on the track in the Stadium

    Walkers - for yours and the runners' safety, please be aware of runners approaching you from behind. Walk towards the sides of the track, running path, keeping the middle of the path open for the runners

    RACE SHIRTS

    *Included in the registration fee for the 5K Walk/Run & 1 Mile Walk/Run. Guaranteed with completed registration through April 30th.

    Additional shirts in various sizes MAY be available after May 1st. Inquire with Diana Disch at diana.disch@harlem122.org

    *Race shirts are not included with registration for the Kids Fun Run but can be purchased. Orders will be accepted through April 30th so they're available at packet pick-up before the race. Shirts are $10 each in sizes in Youth Medium OR Youth Large. Please contact Diana Disch (diana.disch@harlem122.org) to place your order.

    PACKET PICK-UP

    WHEN: Thursday, May 14th (8:00 AM - 3:30 PM) and Friday, May 15th (8:00 AM - 1:00 PM)

    WHERE: Harlem Administration Center 8605 N. 2nd Street, Machesney Park, IL 61115

    WHO:

    5K Walkers / Runners - Race bibs with timing chips & race shirts (guaranteed with registration through April 30th)

    1 Mile Walkers / Runners - Bibs WITHOUT timing chips & race shirts (guaranteed with registration through April 30th)

    Kids Fun Run - Purchased Shirts only

    RACE MEDALS & TROPHIES

    FINISHER MEDALS for all events (1 per registered participant)

    5K Trophies will be awarded for the top 3 overall male and female finisher

    5K Medals will be awarded to the top 3 finishers in each age and gender groups:

    8+ under; 9-11; 12-14; 15-19; 20-24; 25-29; 30-34; 35-39; 40-44; 45-49; 50-54; 55-59; 60-64; 65-69; 70+

    Trophies will be awarded for the Most Student & Staff Participation

    2025 Winners:

    Ralston Elementary - Most Student Participation

    Machesney Elementary - Most Staff Particpation

    COURSE INFORMATION

    The 5K will start on the track at the 50 yard line. Following the first bend of the track, runners/walkers will exit the track on the North side of the field through the double-gated entrance and follow the marked path to parking lot D and then onto Willow Creek path. The turn around will be marked (runners and walkers will NOT be crossing Forest Hills Road), returning to parking lot D, along the front of the high school and re-entering the track on the South side of the field (the single-gated entrance) to the finish line at the 50 yard line where this all started.

    9 km from Rockford
    Machesney Park, Illinois, 61115, United States
    OpenStreetMap Google Maps

    1 Miles 3.1 Miles 5k Fun Run Kids Run Walk

  • Rhythm of the Heart 5k Race & Walk [runsignup.com]

    Sat, Jul 25, 2026 at 7:30 AM

    Description

    The Rhythm of the Heart 5K Run & Walk is a brand-new event kicking off the City of Loves Park’s 4th annual Rhythm of the Heart Music Festival. This community-focused race invites runners and walkers...

    The Rhythm of the Heart 5K Run & Walk is a brand-new event kicking off the City of Loves Park’s 4th annual Rhythm of the Heart Music Festival. This community-focused race invites runners and walkers of all ages to experience the roots of Loves Park as the course winds through some of the city’s original neighborhoods, the Field of Honor, and other special areas. Along the way, participants will pass beautiful Loves Park murals and even catch a glimpse of the Rock River.

    What makes this race truly special is its purpose. All registration fees will directly support Christmas for Kids, a local nonprofit organization that benefits children right here in the Harlem School District through the annual Shop with a First Responder, teacher, and other community members event. By participating, you’re not only getting active and having fun, you’re helping make a meaningful impact in our community.

    Whether you’re running, walking, or cheering from the sidelines, this 5K is a chance to come together, give back, and celebrate everything that makes Loves Park special.

    6 km from Rockford
    100 Heart Blvd, Loves Park, Illinois, 61111, United States
    OpenStreetMap Google Maps

    5k Run Walk

  • RAMP River Run – 3K, 5K, & 1/2 Marathon Run [815riverrun.com] [Register at runsignup.com]

    Sat, Aug 15, 2026 at 6:00 AM

    Description

    Competition and Fun that makes a difference!

    What better way to end your summer than getting out for some family-friendly competition (for those who want to be competitive) in downtown Rockford.

    RAMP...

    Competition and Fun that makes a difference!

    What better way to end your summer than getting out for some family-friendly competition (for those who want to be competitive) in downtown Rockford.

    RAMP will be hosting the 13th Annual 3K Walk/Wheel, 5K Run, 1/2 Marathon! All proceeds from these events will go directly to RAMP. This run is USATF certified (IL 17063NM) and is a 2026 RRR Circuit Race. See more information about the RRR Circuit at www.rockfordroadrunners.org. Register by July 20th to be guaranteed an event t-shirt.

    Thank you for supporting RAMP, a local non-profit organization that provides services and advocacy that assist individuals with disabilities to live as independently as possible.

    RAMP Disability Resources & Services mission is to build an inclusive community that encourages individuals with disabilities to reach their full potential. RAMP takes a creative approach to find resources and opportunities available to team up with individuals with disabilities to access the community where we live, work and play. We have this knowledge because the majority of our staff and board of directors have disabilities. RAMP staff meets individuals with disabilities where they are at and together as a team we take them where they want to go. We advocate for the implementation of current laws, promotion of needed legislation and improvement of existing systems for people with disabilities while working to diminish negative attitudes that threaten to impede equal access. For more information about RAMP, call 815-968-7467 or visit www.rampcil.org.

    PLEASE NOTE:

    In case of inclement weather please see the following website for updates, www.815riverrun.com

    Race Map/Route

    View 5K Race Route

    View Half Marathon Race Route

    Please note: The course is open from 6:30am-10:45am after which time course support will NOT be available.

    Refund Policy

    Because this is a fundraising event, refunds will not be offered for any reason, including cancellation due to hazardous or inclement weather or mandatory social distancing.

    FAQ

    When is packet pickup?

    Packet pick will be Thursday, August 13th from 12:00pm-6:00pm at RAMP, 202 Market Street, Rockford, Illinois or Saturday morning beginning at 6:30 a.m. at the event.

    When/Where do I turn in my donations for RAMP?

    You may turn in your donations at packet pickup the morning of the event. For more info, contact RAMP at 815-968-7467.

    What happens if I cannot participate for any reason?

    There are no medical comps, rollovers, refunds, or transfers of any kind.

    Can I register on race day?

    Yes! Race day registration and packet pickup is from 6:30-7:00 a.m at the City Market Pavilion. Race day registration costs $40 for the 3K and 5K and $75 for the 1/2 Marathon Run. To speed up the process you may print off and fill out the brochure.

    Am I guaranteed a race shirt?

    No. Race shirts are only guaranteed to those who register by July 20th. After that, shirts will be first come first serve based on availability, so register early! New this year for an additional cost receive a crewneck sweatshirt instead of a t-shirt.

    If you raise $50 for RAMP by July 20th, you will earn a RAMP event t-shirt!

    What are the age brackets for the Half Marathon and 5K?

    They are broken into male and female brackets into the following age groups:

    8 & under, 9-10, 11-12, 13-14, 15-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-74, 75+

    Parking

    Please park at Trinity Lutheran Church, up and down Market and Water Streets, the lot across the street from RAMP and the lot behind RAMP’s parking lot where Register Star employees park.

    Street Closings

    We apologize in advance for the inconvenience of the following streets being closed on Saturday, August 15th from 7-11am: Lower Jefferson, Lafayette, Prairie, Madison, Hill & Olive Streets

    Can I bring my stroller/dog?

    Baby joggers/strollers are not permitted on the Half Marathon course. However baby joggers and strollers are permitted on the 3K Walk/Wheel course and the 5K Run course. If you plan to run/walk with a stroller, please position yourself near the back of the starting line. The only animals allowed on the courses are service dogs, please leave your dog at home. Thank you!

    3.7 km from Rockford
    202 Market Street, Rockford, Illinois, 61107, United States
    OpenStreetMap Google Maps

    3k 5k 13.1 Miles Half Marathon Run Walk

  • Nik's Home Run 7K [finishers.com]

    Sat, Oct 10, 2026

    5.3 km from Rockford
    Machesney Park, Illinois, United States
    OpenStreetMap Google Maps

    7k Run

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