Every July 4th morning, Winter Park‘s Park Avenue transforms into a race course for the AdventHealth July 4th Watermelon 5k, one of Central Florida’s most beloved Independence Day traditions. Organized by Track Shack, the race kicks off the city’s morning of patriotic celebration before the Winter Park Olde Fashioned 4th of July Celebration begins in Central Park at 8:30 a.m.
2026 AdventHealth July 4th Watermelon 5k
The race starts at 7:30 a.m. on Saturday, July 4, 2026, at 251 Park Avenue South in Winter Park. The 3.1-mile course runs along Park Avenue and through the neighborhood streets surrounding Central Park. Arrive 45–60 minutes before start time to pick up your race bib. All finishers receive a T-shirt, post-race refreshments, and a watermelon snack.
Registration and pricing
Register at trackshack.com. Pricing increases by registration deadline:
- Through May 11: $35
- May 12 – June 22: $40
- June 23 – July 3: $45
- Race day: $50
A $10 discount applies for participants ages 17 and under, 65 and older, and active or veteran military (through July 3). Groups of 3 or more can save 15% with code friendsandfamily at checkout (through July 3).
Watermelon eating contest and kids’ run
After the 5k finishes, the fun continues with the watermelon eating contest at 8:40 a.m. The free kids’ run begins at 8:45 a.m. — children register on event day. Distances are assigned by age (100 to 400 yards).
What to do after the race
After the race, the morning still has plenty going for it. The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum offers free admission from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. all weekend (July 3–5) — it’s a 5-minute walk from the finish line. Note that Winter Park’s 31st Annual 4th of July Celebration (live performances, bicycle parade, Kids Zone) runs the evening before on Thursday, July 3 from 6:00–9:00 p.m. at Central Park Main Stage, so plan your long weekend accordingly.
Local Tip: Parking is tight on Park Avenue by 7 a.m.; aim for the side streets off Pennsylvania Avenue or the New England Avenue garage and walk over. Registering with a group of 3 or more? Use code friendsandfamily at checkout for 15% off through July 3. Bring a change of clothes — the Morse Museum is free and just steps from the finish line, and it’s a great way to recover before heading out for the rest of the day.
Planning your full Independence Day weekend? 4thofjulyorlando.com is our mini-guide dedicated specifically to celebrating the 4th of July in Orlando — with event listings, fireworks times, and tips all in one place.
AdventHealth Watermelon 5k Video
Park Avenue Map