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2027 Rocky Neck Runfest

Rocky Neck Runfest's final year offers beach trails and a festive finish.

Expected Race Date

~Apr 2027

Date not yet announced — this is when the race usually runs.

Location

Niantic, CT

Quick facts

Date
around April 2027 (expected)
Location
Niantic, Connecticut
Distance
Half marathon (13.1 mi)
Course
Loop Course
Terrain
Mixed
USATF certified
Not listed

Highlights

Atmosphere

Party FinishSpectator SupportGreat Post Race

The Experience

Rocky Neck Runfest takes runners through the natural beauty of Rocky Neck State Park in Niantic, Connecticut. The course winds along well-marked roads and trails, passing the Bride Brook salt marsh, the historic stone Ellie Mitchell Pavilion, and the Four Mile River tidal area. The beachside setting provides a scenic backdrop for this final edition in 2026.

The race is built around a central hub where relay exchanges, spectators, and finishers converge. High-energy atmosphere fills the park as participants gather, cheer, and refuel. The post-race party is the highlight, featuring live music and a hot bRUNch from Flanders Fish Market that runners rave about.

This is a community celebration with a coastal twist. Whether you're running the half marathon or a relay leg, the combination of seaside trails, tidal marsh views, and a lively finish makes for a memorable day. Don't miss the chance to be part of the Runfest's grand finale.

Race-provided description

About HMF & Policies

[image: https://www.hartfordmarathon.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/banner_event_landing_spring_shoreline.jpg]

Sunday - April 19, 2026ROCKY NECK RUNFEST

Results

Start Times

[image: https://www.hartfordmarathon.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/logo_rocky_neck_runfest_new.jpeg]

Final Year – get in on Runfest in 2026! Choose from three race opportunities in one incredible venue along the beach and trails of Rocky Neck State Park. Explore the natural beauty on well-marked roads and trails, including the Bride Brook salt marsh, the historic stone Ellie Mitchell Pavilion and the Four Mile River tidal area. Ideally set up in a central location with high-energy atmosphere for relay exchanges, participants and spectators can gather, cheer, refuel and easily access the nearby finish line. The post-race party is one not to be missed with live music, hot bRUNch from Flanders Fish Market, and incredible camaraderie.

CHOOSE AN ADVENTURE:

Rocky Neck Relay: Each member of th

Logistics

Race Day

around April 2027 (expected)

Start Time

TBA

Start Location

Niantic, CT

Directions

Course Info

Course Type

Loop Course

Terrain

mixed

Scenery

Coastal, Park

Surface

Dirt Trail, Paved

Difficulty

Rolling Hills

Quality Score

Methodology
Heritage0/20

first year

Size0/15

no finisher counts yet

Momentum3/5

small race — neutral

Loyalty0/20

needs a few years of results

Course & details0/15

limited extras

National draw0/10

no finisher data yet

Front-pack speed0/5

no winner time yet

Weather10/10

typical high 57°F

Race Day Weather

5-year historical avg

Start (Low)

42°

Afternoon (High)

57°

Ideal racing weather — cool and comfortable

0.1"

Precipitation

14 mph

Wind

68%

Humidity

Frequently asked

When is the 2027 Rocky Neck Runfest?

The 2027 Rocky Neck Runfest hasn't announced its next date yet, but it typically takes place around April 2027 (expected).

Where does the 2027 Rocky Neck Runfest take place?

It takes place in Niantic, Connecticut.

What distances does the 2027 Rocky Neck Runfest offer?

The half marathon (13.1 miles).

Is the 2027 Rocky Neck Runfest course flat and good for a PR?

The 2027 Rocky Neck Runfest is a rolling hills, loop course course.

HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.

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