People Got to Be Free

Running is the perfect metaphor for independence, when you think about it: It’s the sport of loosening up everything and getting into a rhythm and going as far as you body can take you — like five kilometers, or whatever comes first. That must be why Independence Day week is littered with running events, along with the fact that it’s high summer, the trees are green and people are relaxing their way into a holiday that’s all about freedom…and being outside. Today’s opportunity to run for it comes in the form of the all-ages-and-abilities Race 4 Independence, a 5K number that ends with a big community picnic in Denver’s Washington Park.

Registration begins at 8 a.m. in the southeast corner of Wash Park, near Louisiana Avenue; the Kids Fun Run kicks off at 8:45 a.m., followed by the 5K proper at 9. When it’s all over, there’ll be festivities including prizes and giveaways, vendor booths, music and entertainment until noon, in addition to a picnic spread. To participate in Race 4 Independence, a benefit for the Third Way Center mental health organization, register online at thirdwaycenter.org; fees are $25 to $35, or $90 for a family of four (two adults and two children).

Sun., June 30, 8 a.m., 2013