Riva Runs The Boardwalk 5K takes place at 183 Beach Street in West Haven, Connecticut on September 12, 2026. The event offers two distance options: a 100-yard race and a 5K. The typical start time is 5:45 PM, making this an evening event. Entry fees range from free to $45, depending on registration choices. This boardwalk-based race accommodates both shorter sprint distances and the standard 5K distance, giving participants flexibility in their race selection. Whether you're looking for a quick competitive effort or a full 5K, this West Haven event provides options for different fitness levels and goals.
From the Race Organizer
THIS FALL'S NEWEST SEACOAST RUN & WALK is on TAP! JOIN US AT RIVA on the water in West Haven - famous for its dining, drinks and entertainment! RIVAGIVESBACK** will be hosting this event. Join us before the sun sets and then stay for the after party. ALL abilities are encouraged to join us! Run/walk mostly on the boardwalk, a very flat and scenic 3.11 miles, with lots of amenities. Specially designed t-shirt guaranteed by Sept 1 (after, as available & may run out) Computer chip timed A canned beverage after you finish to all 21 & over Snacks & N/a beverages Awards/prizes/gift cards TBD (see below) Band on site when you arrive and a DJ when are done Riva is open till late for food and drinks The Course - A work in progress based on permits and WH Police approval. As soon as it's confirmed we will post the link. But it is guaranteed FLAT with at least one turnaround point. There will be one water table as well but it's always a good practice to carry your own. It will be well marked with volunteers on course & police. THERE WILL BE A 250 PERSON LIMIT FOR OUR INAUGURAL EVENT Awards - Top male & female overall (removed from their age group) 1st place age groups 9 & under, 10-13, 14-18, 19-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70+ More places may be added as registration increases) 19 & over 18 & under Reg Fees now -7/31 $35 $25 8/1-8/23 $37 $25 (T-shirt guarantee ends 9/1) 8/24-9/6 $40 $25 9/7-9/12 $45 $30 Event Schedule July 9 (tentative) Registration opens Sept 1 T-Shirt guarantee ends Sept 11 Early shirt/bib/swag pickup times TBD Sept 12 Event Night 4:00pm pickup starts at the lot next to RIVA- or inside if raining. 5:45pm FREE Kids fun run on the boardwalk (9 & under only) short distance TBD. 6:00pm START 5k run/walk - shine/rain, followed by the after party "If it pours we still pour!" 6:45pm Awards presented ASAP 7:05pm Sunset Parking - There are "lots" of it, just to the right of Riva. Enough for over 200 cars. Our sincere thanks to the City & departments of West Haven. With their help we are able to present this event. Safety protocols will be in place, and State/Town guidelines will be met. With fixed costs & pre-payment of many items, we CANNOT REFUND any registration fees. YES we ALWAYS need VOLUNTEERS and SPONSOR PARTNERS Please contact Marty- msrunningproductions@yahoo.com EVENT COORDINATION Riva Runs The Boardwalk is being produced by Rivagivesback. MS Running Productions - Marty Schaivone is the race director and coordinator of more than 30 races each year including The Milford Hospital Mother's Day Run, Milford Moves for Veterans, Two Roads Shore to the Pour, the Stratford Turkey Trot, Colony Grill Hot Oil 5K in Fairfield, the 36th Great Pumpkin Classic at Trumbull High School, and many others in Fairfield County. MS Running Productions is available for event consulting & directing. Contact Marty at msrunningproductions@yahoo.com SPONSOR & PARTNER OPPORTUNITIES If you or your company would like to partner with us, please contact- msrunningproductions@yahoo.com If you are not familiar with RIVA (located where Chick's Drive-in used to be) check them out. https://www.facebook.com/rivaonthewater Riva’s shoreline comes alive with music, laughter, and unforgettable nights. From acoustic sunsets to high-energy bands by the fire, our event lineup keeps the vibes flowing all season long. Grab a drink, gather your crew, and see what’s happening next on the coast. **Riva Gives Back is a 501c3 that contributes to many local charities including the Special Olympics. Cheques can be sent to - Riva Gives Back 183 Beach St. West Haven CT 06516 All / any amounts are appreciated. Thank you.
Hotels Near This Race
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Race Travel Insurance
Don't forget travel insurance for September 12.
You've trained for months and booked a trip to West Haven, CT.
A pre-race injury, a delayed flight, or a family emergency can derail the whole thing.
Travel insurance can help cover your race entry fee, hotel, and flights if you can't make it,
and may cover medical costs if something goes wrong on the course. Plans typically only run
5-7% of your total trip cost — and running events are covered under standard plans with no
additional coverage needed.
Trip cancellation up to 100% of prepaid costs
Running events covered under standard plans — no add-ons needed
Trip interruption up to 150% of non-refundable costs
When is Riva Runs The Boardwalk 5k 2026 — West Haven, CT?
Riva Runs The Boardwalk 5k 2026 — West Haven, CT takes place on September 12, 2026. The race is held in West Haven, Connecticut.
Where is Riva Runs The Boardwalk 5k 2026 — West Haven, CT held?
Riva Runs The Boardwalk 5k 2026 — West Haven, CT is held at 183 Beach St in West Haven, Connecticut.
Where can I find hotels near Riva Runs The Boardwalk 5k 2026 — West Haven, CT?
RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in West Haven. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.
