Canton YMCA to hold holiday race

The North Canton YMCA will be holding a special run on the Fourth of July, looking to raise money and celebrate milestones for the organization and the country.

The run will offer multiple distance options for runners and walkers of all abilities. The morning will kick off with a free “firecracker dash” for ages 5 and under, followed by 2 and 5 mile walks and runs. There will also be separate wheelchair races for both distances. Discount registration is available for children and teens.

The race event will also feature family-friendly entertaining including music and costume contests for those who want to dress up while they run. Patriotic red, white and blue costumes are suggested for the occasions. This year’s event will be the 48th annual edition of the 4th of July run, and also coincides with the 250th anniversary of America’s Declaration of Independence and the 175th birthday of the YMCA.

The top finishers in each category will receive awards as part of the post-race festivities, and all participants will receive a custom finisher medal and T-shirt. Athletic events often use printing services and trophy shops to help create items like this to reward participants and raise awareness of future editions.

The 2026 edition of the North Canton YMCA July 4 Race will begin on North Canton’s Main Street and conclude at the YMCA’s headquarters.