43rd Annual Milton Optimist Independence Day 10K Run/5K Walk/1 Mile Run

Kick off your Independence Day celebrations with a stride at the 43rd Annual Milton Optimist Independence Day 10K Run/5K Walk/1 Mile Run in charming Milton, Wisconsin, on Saturday, July 4, 2026. This long-standing community event offers a perfect blend of fitness and patriotic spirit, catering to all ages and abilities. Participants can choose from three distinct experiences, all starting and finishing conveniently in front of Milton High School.

The 10K run, covering 6.2 miles, follows an engaging out-and-back course along picturesque country roads, featuring a few rolling hills to add a challenge to your holiday run. Three well-placed water stations will keep you hydrated throughout this scenic journey. For those seeking a more relaxed pace, the 3.1-mile 5K walk begins on the same route before diverting onto the shaded and serene Ice Age trail, offering a refreshing natural escape before rejoining the 10K course for the final stretch. This non-competitive walk includes one water station. Younger participants or those preferring a shorter distance can enjoy the 1-mile run, winding through residential streets with an exciting steep downhill finish.

Beyond the courses, this event is a true community celebration. Organized by the Milton Optimist Club, all proceeds directly support local youth-centered school and community projects, making your participation a meaningful contribution. Typical race day conditions in early July include highs around 83°F and lows around 62°F, with a 15% chance of precipitation, providing generally warm summer weather for your Independence Day effort.