53rd Annual Walpole Labor Day Road Race
10K · Walk · 5K · Fun Run · 1 mi
Sep 7, 2026 · Walpole, Massachusetts, US
Listed Jun 30, 2016
Run Vibes summary
AI-assistedAt a glance (AI-assisted text)
Join Walpole's 53rd annual Labor Day Road Race, a beloved community tradition supporting high school track and field programs with 5K, 10K, and kids' mile options.
The vibe (AI-assisted text)
This race embodies a strong sense of community and tradition, having been a Labor Day staple for over five decades. It's a heartwarming event where local athletes and families come together, not just to run, but to support Walpole High School's Cross Country and Track & Field programs. The atmosphere is one of shared purpose and local pride, welcoming participants of all ages and abilities.
Race day (AI-assisted text)
Expect a lively, community-focused atmosphere centered around Walpole High School, where the race begins and ends. Packet pickup details aren't explicit, but with pre-registration options, it's likely a smooth process. The event offers a range of distances, from a competitive 10K to a fun 5K run/walk and a kids' mile, ensuring a diverse crowd. You'll likely see a mix of serious runners, casual walkers, and families enjoying the holiday weekend together.
Best for (AI-assisted text)
This race is ideal for runners who love a strong community feel and want to support a great local cause. It's perfect for families, high school athletes, or anyone looking for a traditional Labor Day event in a supportive environment. If you enjoy a mix of competitive spirit and friendly participation, this is a great fit.
Personality (AI-assisted text)
The Walpole Road Race has a warm, established personality, deeply rooted in local tradition and community spirit. It feels like a cherished annual gathering, where the focus is as much on camaraderie and giving back as it is on personal achievement. There's a supportive, encouraging vibe, making it accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
Weather snapshot (AI-assisted text)
Taking place on Labor Day in early September in Massachusetts, you can expect a variety of weather conditions. It could be pleasantly cool and crisp, or still quite warm and humid, typical of late summer in New England. Runners should prepare for either scenario, staying hydrated and dressing in layers if the morning starts cool.
Terrain & course feel (AI-assisted text)
As a "Road Race" starting and finishing at a high school, the course will almost certainly be on paved roads. Walpole, MA, like many New England towns, likely features some rolling hills, so expect a course with some elevation changes rather than a completely flat route. It's designed for road running shoes and offers a classic town race experience.
Signals we noticed (from listing text, AI-assisted)
- 53rd Annual in title
- Labor Day event
- fundraiser to support Walpole High School Cross Country / Track & Field programs
- wonderful community tradition
- 5K run/walk, 10K run, 1 mile kids run options
- starts and finishes at Walpole High School
- finisher's medal mentioned
- official Walpole Road Race T-shirt mentioned
- challenge themselves mentioned
This section is produced with AI from the listing we have on file—think of it as a quick orientation, not a rulebook. Organizers can update start times, courses, policies, and perks at any time, so when something really matters, please lean on their official race page for the latest. We don’t independently verify every detail against live organizer updates; we’re here to help you get a feel for the event and decide if you want to dig deeper.
Original listingFull description from sourceTap to expand · same text as on RunSignup / the official listing▾
For over 50 years, the Walpole Road Race has given local athletes the opportunity to challenge themselves and participate in a wonderful community tradition. The race is the largest fundraiser to support Walpole High School Cross Country / Track & Field programs. By participating in this event you are supporting 200+ Walpole High School Cross Country/Track & Field athletes across 6 seasons as they prepare for upcoming competition. We thank you for your generosity and continued support of the programs!
The Walpole Road Race starts and finishes at Walpole High School and includes 5K run/walk, 10k run, 1 mile kids run, and virtual 5k/10k events that give everyone a chance to participate. If you need to switch events, just let us know at info@walpoleroadrace.org.
Entry Fees (sign up at Walpole Day in May for an additional $5 discount)
- Pre-Registration (before race weekend) Race Fee: $35
- Regular Registration Race Fee: $40
- Ages 13 and younger/65 and older: $20
- Youth Mile Fun-Run fee: $20
Event Swag
- Participants who register before August 15 receive the coveted official Walpole Road Race T-shirt
- All participants will receive finisher's medal
- Race T-shirts are also available for sale in our online store for $20
Awards (in-person events only)
- 10K male winner: name engraved on Herb Lewis Memorial Trophy - displayed at The Run House
- 10K female winner: name engraved on John Murphy Trophy - displayed at John D. Murphy & Co.
- Top three 5K/10K finishers: recognized with specially engraved placement medals
- Team 5K/10K Races: Team name engraved on Team Plaque - displayed at Walpole High School
- Age group awards are not being issued this year
Race Routes
Strollers are welcome in the 5K race, lined up at the back of the starting pack to avoid collisions.
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Full listing on the race page · official details from the source
AI summarization pending
We haven’t generated Run Vibes’ quick-read summary for this race yet—it’s in the queue and will show here when ready.
Full listing on the race page · official details from the source
AI summarization pending
We haven’t generated Run Vibes’ quick-read summary for this race yet—it’s in the queue and will show here when ready.
Full listing on the race page · official details from the source
AI summarization pending
We haven’t generated Run Vibes’ quick-read summary for this race yet—it’s in the queue and will show here when ready.
Full listing on the race page · official details from the source
AI summarization pending
We haven’t generated Run Vibes’ quick-read summary for this race yet—it’s in the queue and will show here when ready.
Full listing on the race page · official details from the source
AI summarization pending
We haven’t generated Run Vibes’ quick-read summary for this race yet—it’s in the queue and will show here when ready.
Full listing on the race page · official details from the source
AI summarization pending
We haven’t generated Run Vibes’ quick-read summary for this race yet—it’s in the queue and will show here when ready.
Full listing on the race page · official details from the source