Lake Area Runners 4 for the Fourth 2026

The Lake Area Runners 4 for the Fourth is a 4-mile race held on Independence Day in Lake Charles, Louisiana. The course begins and ends at the Calcasieu Parish Police Jury parking lot, located near Lakeshore Drive and Gill Street. This out-and-back route follows Lakeshore Drive and offers a flat, fast profile, ideal for runners aiming for a fast finish or walkers seeking a brief holiday activity. The organizing club describes it as their most demanding race of the year, with a literal warning for participants to hydrate well before the early start. The race serves as the concluding event in the Lake Area Runners Triple Crown Series, which also includes the Leprechaun 3 Miler and Contraband 5 Miler. Completing all three races earns participants a unique award. Additionally, the top male and female finishers in the overall series will receive complimentary entries to the club's races for the subsequent year. Following the 4-mile run, attendees can enjoy food, beverages, music, and an awards ceremony that recognizes overall winners and age groups in 10-year increments.