Join a cherished Fourth of July tradition at the Arnold Mills Road Race in Cumberland, Rhode Island, on Saturday, July 4, 2026. This popular 4-mile event, a staple for over 50 years, draws an average of 500 to 700 participants annually, including top regional talent and even past U.S. Olympians such as Matt Centrowitz Sr. and Pete Pfitzinger, and triathlon legend Karen Smyers. The race kicks off promptly at 9:00 AM, starting and finishing near the Cumberland Fire Department – Station 5 on Arnold Mills Road, making it an exciting way to begin your Independence Day celebrations.

Runners can expect a moderately challenging course that winds through the scenic, rural Arnold Mills neighborhood. The 4-mile route is known for being hilly, presenting a unique test for those accustomed to Rhode Island's typically flatter coastal terrain, and boasts a total elevation gain of 175 feet, with a notable 40-foot climb right from the start. The course involves a smaller loop followed by a larger one, guiding runners through various turns on roads like Nate Whipple Highway, Abbott Run, and Sun Valley Drive, before a final stretch back to the fire station. Typical race day conditions in early July include highs around 84°F and lows around 63°F, with a modest 14% chance of precipitation.

What truly sets the Arnold Mills Road Race apart is its timing in conjunction with Cumberland's annual Fourth of July parade, allowing runners and their families to extend their festivities. All finishers receive a commemorative race medal, and the first 500 registrants are awarded a free race t-shirt. Known for its competitive yet welcoming atmosphere, the event sees a broad range of runners, from elite athletes to those simply looking for a fun, community-focused run.