On August 8, 2026, the Hope Watermelon 5K takes place in Hope, Arkansas at 725 South Mockingbird Lane, with a race start at 7:25 AM. Despite its name, the event features a 1-mile distance rather than the traditional 5K length. Entry fees range from $15 to $30. The early morning start time suits runners looking to complete their race before the day heats up. This one-mile option works well for those seeking a shorter running event or testing fitness before longer efforts.
From the Race Organizer
•Race hosted by the Melonvine Striders. *USATF Course Certification #: AR24012WJT -Every participant receives a locally grown genuine Hope Watermelon 🙂 - High School Track Girls / Boys Team Competition (Need 5 girls and/or 5 boys for a team) Please email race for instructions. 5K AWARDS: Overall Top 3 Male and Female in Open, Masters, Grandmasters and Senior. Overall top 3 Male and Female Walkers, Top 3 Wheelchairs, Girls and Boys High School Track team award. Awards are given 3 deep in the following age groups: 0-9, 10-14, 15-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-74, 75-79, 80 and over . Melon Mile Kids Run starts at 8:30 am, first 70 entered receive shirt. All receive finisher medal. Directions to the Starting Line From I-30 take Exit 30 onto AR-Hwy 32/73, and proceed southeast into Hope. Drive ~1.5 miles, then turn right at the 3rd stop light onto US-Hwy 67 (3rd St). Drive west 3 blocks and take a left onto Fulton St. Drive (Hwy 174 ) south for 1/2 mile until reach Park Dr. Turn right and the start/finish area is right before park entrance. . Address: 1251 Park Drive, Fair Park, Hope, AR Race History The Watermelon 5K was established in 1978 though in the first few years the race distance was 4 miles. The race has been part of the Arkansas RRCA Grand Prix Series since 1994. Course Description Race starts leaving Fair park and going East on Park drive. Mostly flat with a few winding turns, then heading to Elm street going back north for two blocks lining up for the long straight away on Main. Runners continue along Main St rewarded with a small gradual downhill until near the 1.5 mile point. Main St then moves gradually back uphill and the race route continues this gradual incline after making a right turn onto 16th street until just before the 2 mile marker. At this point the course is gradually downhill until after the turn onto Grady Street, where the route levels off. The now weary runners will take Grady north to 7th Street where a left turn is made. The route angles to the southwest onto Park Dr. The road then turns back due west for the final straightaway. It is now time for the runners to begin their finishing kicks as the 3 mile marker and the finish line back in Fair Park are finally in sight! For further information, contact: Don Still, Race Director Email
Hotels Near This Race
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Race Travel Insurance
Don't forget travel insurance for August 8.
You've trained for months and booked a trip to Hope, AR.
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
Hope Watermelon 5K 2026 — Hope, AR takes place on August 8, 2026. The race is held in Hope, Arkansas.
Where is Hope Watermelon 5K 2026 — Hope, AR held?
Hope Watermelon 5K 2026 — Hope, AR is held at 725 South Mockingbird Lane in Hope, Arkansas.
Where can I find hotels near Hope Watermelon 5K 2026 — Hope, AR?
RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in Hope. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.
