Event Details
The Faxon Law New Haven Road Race is excited to celebrate its 49th anniversary this Labor Day, Monday, September 7. The event again features a half marathon, half marathon relay, 5K, the Town Fair Tire Kids Fun Run, and its signature 20K race. The 20K hosts the USATF 20K National Championship, attracting elite runners from around the country.
This year marks the 35th consecutive year a national championship race has been held in New Haven, making it the longest-running USATF Championship event in the country. The 20K is expected to feature a strong field, including U.S. Olympians and national champions. With over 1,400 runners already registered and a cap of 5,500 participants, the event is on track to sell out again. Runners are strongly encouraged to sign up early to secure their spot.
All races start and finish on the historic New Haven Green, where spectators and participants will enjoy a variety of vendors, including beer poured by a nationally recognized and local favorite, East Rock Brewing Company.
Race packet pickup will be held Friday through Sunday of Labor Day weekend at Corsair, a luxury apartment building located in New Haven’s East Rock neighborhood.
The event also offers plenty of fun for families. The Kids Fun Zone on the New Haven Green will include games, sports mascots, and other outdoor entertainment to keep kids engaged and smiling throughout the morning.
In keeping with its commitment to sustainability, the 2026 Faxon Law New Haven Road Race will continue to uphold its green initiatives in partnership with Avangrid. Race materials and packet bags will be printed on 100% recycled paper, and race shirts will be made from recycled fabrics. The event will use biodegradable cups and trash bags, eliminate plastic water bottles entirely, and feature electric or low-emission lead vehicles to further reduce its environmental footprint.
After crossing the finish line, participants are invited to celebrate at the BAR New Haven After Party. From 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., runners can relax with two slices of pizza and a beer (for those 21+) for just $14. Attendees under 21 must be accompanied by an adult. Tickets are limited and selling quickly.
The Faxon Law New Haven Road Race is organized by JB Sports and a passionate group of local volunteers.
New Haven Road Race President Michael Dolan urged participants to sign up early as spots are going quickly.
“Registrations for the Faxon Law New Haven Road Race, with the support of our sponsors and in coordination with the City of New Haven for this world-class event, have been robust,” he said. “The current pace of registrations indicates the races will sell out once again. We strongly encourage early registration to ensure your ability to participate in this historic event and save, as prices will continue to increase throughout the summer.”
Faxon Law Group, the title sponsor since 2007, remains at the heart of the event’s mission.
“We are honored to once again support this remarkable nationwide event in the Elm City,” said Joel Faxon, founding partner of Faxon Law Group. “The Faxon Law Group New Haven Road Race is more than just a race—it’s a celebration of community and purpose. We’re especially proud of the meaningful impact the race continues to have supporting the local charities that share our firm’s values of achievement, connection, empowerment, and engagement.”
Major sponsors of the event include Faxon Law Group, Crabtree Lexus, Town Fair Tire, In Memory of Mark Gilhuly, Corsair, G Café, Ivy Rehab Network, Yale University, and the City of New Haven.
Register today or learn more by visiting www.newhavenroadrace.org.