Introducing the Tour de Gourd, a 5k Run
Looking for a way to experience the pumpkins like never before? This 5k run puts Main Street center stage as participants race through Newcastle and Damariscotta's historic buildings and gigantic gourds. Anyone can enter the event and take part in a spectacular celebration of the Twin Villages: from experienced runners looking for a personal best time, to parents pushing the little one in a stroller. Another way to take part is to come into town to cheer on the racers while enjoying a coffee and breakfast pastry.
The race starts at 8am on Monday 13th October, and ends around 9am. The route starts at the Newcastle Town Office, and goes along Main Street, over the Damariscotta River, as far as the Church Street intersection. The street will be closed to traffic for this first part of the race. From here, we take an out-and-back route around the quiet, hilly, residential streets of Damariscotta. The streets are open to cars here, so please watch for traffic and run on the left hand side of the street. The finish is a downhill jog on Elm Street to the winning giant pumpkin at the Elm Street Plaza.
Scan to register
The cost is $25 for online sign up, or $30 for race day sign up. The online sign up is at the following link: https://www.running4free.com/event/tour-de-gourd-5k/. Registration/check in for the race begins at 6.30am, and closes at 7.40am. There will be a brief race meeting at 7.50am.
Parking for the Tour de Gourd 5k is limited. The best place to park is at Lincoln Academy, a ten minute walk (or, warm up) from the start line.
Bicycle parking will be available at the Newcastle Town Office.