The Watermelon Classic road race has been run in Jackson, MS every July 4th morning since 1983. With the illness and subsequent death of the race's founder, Bill Johnson, the Museum took over organization of the race in 1997 with ongoing assistance from the Mississippi Track Club. Because of its annual holiday timing, the Watermelon Classic attracts a large, diverse field of entrants, ranging from major college scholarship runners and Olympic team members to Mom, Dad and the kids out to spend holiday time together.

The family friendly race consists of a 5K run and walk plus a one-mile fun run that attracted almost 1000 runners and walkers in 2001. Goody bags are presented to each entrant. The Museum is open for several hours after the event for racers and non-racers alike.

Since 1997, the Watermelon Classic has been sponsored by Baptist Health Systems.

Click here to download a Registration form for the Baptist Health Systems Watermelon Classic!