48th Annual Jack Gamble Melon Run

Sat, Jul 4, 2026, 4:00 AM EDT

Location: 1001 NW 34th Street, Gainesville, FL 32605
Type: Run

Race feel

Kick off your Fourth of July with Gainesville's beloved 3-mile Melon Run, featuring rolling hills, age-group awards, and a refreshing watermelon finish.

Fun
Competitive
Quirky
Festive

Start your Independence Day with the 48th Annual Jack Gamble Melon Run, a cherished Gainesville tradition. This 3-mile event features rolling hills and a refreshing slice of watermelon at the finish line, making it a festive and fun celebration for all ages. As one of the Florida Track Club's largest events, it brings the community together, much like BBQ and fireworks on the Fourth of July. Runners can also vie for age-group awards and the chance to be crowned Melon Run King or Queen.

What to expect

From the organizer

🍉 Gainesville’s Favorite Fourth of July Tradition

Start your Independence Day with 3 miles, rolling hills, and a slice of watermelon at the finish.

The Melon Run is one of the Florida Track Club's largest events of the year and as much a part of July 4th as BBQ and fireworks. This community favorite brings runners of all ages together for a festive, fun, and slightly hilly celebration.

🍉 The Race

• 3-mile rolling course • Age-group awards in 10-year increments • Age-group winners receive a watermelon • Post-race refreshments (yes, more watermelon)

👑 Bonus Events

• Free ½-mile kids run • Crowning of the Melon Run King and Queen after the races

👕 Registration Details

Register by June 19 at 11:59 PM to select a race tank top. • No tank tops available after June 19, 2025 • Price (no tank option) increases after June 19 • Price increases again after June 27 • Race tanks will not be held if you do not attend

👟 Youth Pricing (12 & Under) • $25 regular registration • $15 no-tank option

Pricing automatically adjusts based on age on July 4, 2025. Children receive the additional discount with a family membership.

📍 Race Day Information

Start Time: 8:00 AM Location: Albert “Ray” Massey Westside Park 1001 NW 34th Street Gainesville, FL 32605

Parking: Use the large lot on the west side of the park off NW 34th Street.

Bib Pick-Up: Begins at 7:00 a.m. in front of the pool near the finish line (east side of the park)

⚠️ Race Day Registration = Online Only Register online through 7:30 AM on race morning using your phone or computer, then pick up your bib.

• No in-person registration assistance • No paper forms • No in-person payments

💳 FTC Member Discount

FTC Members: Log in to your FTC account and click the "Local Races" tab for the discount code. Enter that code on the payment page during registration.