Chase the Butterfly Family 5K Road Race

Lace up for the Chase the Butterfly Family 5K Road Race on May 2, 2026, in the charming town of Ipswich, MA. This event isn't just a race; it's a vibrant celebration of community and a crucial fundraiser for the Ipswich Family YMCA and the Cure CMT4J Foundation, supporting local resident Talia Duff in her fight against a rare neurological disease. Held on the scenic, historic grounds of New England Biolabs (the former Proctor Estate), the 5K offers a picturesque course adorned with beautiful buildings, well-manicured landscapes, and breathtaking flowering trees and shrubs in bloom.

Runners will appreciate the unique course design, which begins with a refreshing downhill stretch of at least a mile, allowing for a strong start amidst inspiring scenery. The route then ventures onto a public road with minimal traffic before circling back to the property, concluding with a manageable uphill finish that has pleasantly surprised past participants. This dog and stroller-friendly course ensures a welcoming atmosphere for all, making it a perfect outing for the entire family. Typical race day conditions in early May feature pleasant highs around 64°F and lows near 44°F, with only a 14% chance of precipitation, providing ideal running weather.

The Chase the Butterfly Family 5K fosters an engaging atmosphere from start to finish. Ample parking is available, including garage options at New England Biolabs, where the race both begins and ends. Beyond the exhilarating run, participants can look forward to a lively post-race experience featuring free water, bananas, and energy bars, with local favorites like Riverview Pizza and True North Ale Company also on site for additional refreshments. Join fellow runners in this meaningful event to experience a beautiful course and contribute to vital community causes.