The Litchfield Hills Road Race is ideal if you're looking for a small-town run and are in Connecticut during the summer. It's an institution in the town of Litchfield, and race organizers realize that: they plan an entire weekend around the road race, including a craft fair and a block party.

The

I've never had so much fun running 26 miles in my entire life. Aid stations were great. Crowd support was enormous and deafening. There was music everywhere. It's like NYC threw a party for us. There are obstacles to overcome like getting in and getting up

This is probably my favorite road race. The town really puts on a show, and makes runners feel welcome. In my prime , I was fortunate enough to have been given elite status in this race, and it was a special experience; however, weaving through the crowds other years