15th Annual Hilo Bay Veterans 5K Run, Walk & Roll
Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post and Auxiliary 3830, Pahoa, in proud partnership with Hawaiʻi County Parks & Recreation, invites the entire community to participate in the 15th Annual Hilo Bay Veterans Independence Day Run, Walk, and Roll, held in conjunction with the Freedom 250 celebration. The run is an inclusive 5K Run, Walk, and Roll honoring those who served our nation while raising awareness of the challenges faced daily by our ill and injured veterans. This is more than a race - it's a community celebration of service, unity, and patriotism.
STEP INTO HISTORY!
This Independence Day, don't just watch history—RUN, WALK, and ROLL THROUGH IT! Join veterans, families, friends, and community members for the 15th Annual Hilo Bay Veterans 5K Run, Walk & Roll, a one-of-a-kind patriotic experience that kicks off the Big Island's celebration of America's 250th Anniversary of Independence and Freedom. This isn't just a race. It's a journey through 250 years of American history.
TRAVEL THROUGH TIME
As you make your way around the beautiful Liliʻuokalani Park & Gardens, you'll experience seven interactive historical stations that bring America's story to life.
- Before the starting line: Travel back to 1773–1775, where growing unrest and the desire for freedom ignited a revolution.
- At the Start Line: JULY 4, 1776 Witness the birth of a new nation as the Declaration of Independence is signed and the promise of liberty begins.
- ALONG THE COURSE, EXPERIENCE:
- Station 1: 1776–1800 The founding of America and the challenges of building a new nation.
- Station 2: 1800–1865 Expansion, sacrifice, and the struggles that shaped the Union.
- Station 3: 1865–1918 Recovery, industrial growth, and America's emergence on the world stage.
- Station 4: 1918–1945 The Great Depression, World War II, and a generation defined by courage and resilience.
- Station 5: 1945–2001 Innovation, prosperity, exploration, and transformational change.
- Station 6: 2001–Present A nation tested by tragedy yet strengthened through service, sacrifice, and perseverance.
- Station 7: 2026 and Beyond A look toward America's future—a future shaped by leaders, dreamers, innovators, and citizens like you.
- THE FINISH LINE Cross the finish line with a deeper appreciation for the generations who defended our freedoms and built the nation we enjoy today. Remember the sacrifices. Celebrate the victories. Honor our veterans. Inspire future generations.
WHY YOU DON'T WANT TO MISS THIS EVENT
- Celebrate America's 250th Birthday
- Honor Veterans and Active-Duty Service Members
- Experience a Unique Historical Journey
- Family-Friendly Event
- Walkers, Runners, Rollers, and All Ages Welcome
- Beautiful Hilo Bay Setting
- Patriotic Fun, Community Spirit, and Lasting Memories
EVENT DETAILS
15th Annual Hilo Bay Veterans 5K Run, Walk & Roll
Liliʻuokalani Park & Gardens, Hilo, Hawaiʻi
Saturday, July 4, 2026
7:00 AM
Celebrating America's 250th Anniversary
DON'T JUST CELEBRATE HISTORY—BECOME PART OF IT! Gather your family, recruit your friends, wear your red, white, and blue, and join us for an unforgettable Independence Day experience. The past tells our story. The future is ours to write. Happy 250th Birthday, America! We look forward to seeing you at the starting line!
