Smuttynose Rockfest Half Marathon
Hampton, NH
- Half Marathon, 5K
- Road (Paved)
- Official race website
Ready to rock? The annual Smuttynose Rockfest Half Marathon & 5K returns to Hampton! Race along the stunning New England Coastline with thousands of runners at New Hampshire’s largest half marathon and 5K. And, because this run is rockin’, on-course jams will keep you movin’ and groovin’ throughout your run. … MORE
Local Historical Weather (Oct 04):
| 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 | 2021 | |
| H (°F) | 81 | 69 | 79 | 57 | 60 |
| L (°F) | 46 | 51 | 57 | 45 | 54 |
Find Nearby Lodging (hotel, rental, etc.):
Decent event, nice beach area.
Nice beach area near start/finish areas. Stayed in local hotel. So walked to expo, and start/finish. Nice not to deal with traffic or parking! Zip sweatshirt given at expo was … MORE
Nice beach area near start/finish areas. Stayed in local hotel. So walked to expo, and start/finish. Nice not to deal with traffic or parking! Zip sweatshirt given at expo was nice, instead of typical T-shirt. Race was fine, flat course, aid stations were typical. Some music on course, but not as much as I expected. Post race had stage with band. Small Lobster roll (or Veggie option) given with chips at end. Finishing medals were ok. It was nice to be able to go cool off in the ocean after the race! Otherwise a pretty typical event. Not great, but no complaints either. One and done for me. Just needed a NH race for my 50 state goal. Mission accomplished.
It rocked
This is a great race, the swag sweatshirt was cool, definitely not sized accurately. Also they do not do DAY OF registration and packet pickup which is super inconvenient for … MORE
This is a great race, the swag sweatshirt was cool, definitely not sized accurately. Also they do not do DAY OF registration and packet pickup which is super inconvenient for anyone not local. Parking was difficult, but that’s just the area, nothing they can do to fix that. I think if there was different options for non-locals to pickup I would rate this 5/5. Overal 4/5
Going Downhill (Literally...)
This was my third time running Rockfest (2022, 2024, and this year 2025). I loved it the first two years for the flat and fast course, ocean views, amenities (e.g. … MORE
This was my third time running Rockfest (2022, 2024, and this year 2025). I loved it the first two years for the flat and fast course, ocean views, amenities (e.g. swag, food, party), and vibe.
This year, some of that magic was missing. The course was significantly more difficult and less charming: the majority wove through HILLY residential areas instead of FLAT by the ocean. They replaced the chowder with bags of chips (the “free food” advertised on the race website) and replaced The Old Salt restaurant’s lobster rolls with inferior ones served in plastic clamshells. The starting corral area was confusing. There was a “PR bell,” but the race didn’t bring the runners’ attention to it until days after the race concluded. There was no race-day bib/swag pickup, so I (and many others) had to choose between $20 shipping and making an extra trip to Hampton. There were fewer photos (by far!), and they were of lower quality.
There were positive aspects to the event, too. The pacers did an amazing job, this year’s jacket and medal were great, the entire course felt safe, and there were sufficient aid stations.
The event was a reasonably good time and I’m glad I ran it this year. However, if the race director team does not re-elevate Rockfest to its previous glory, including reinstating the “flat and fast by the ocean” aspect of the course, I’ll select a different Fall half-marathon in future years. I’d love to keep running this race annually, as I know how special an event it can be–and has been!
I won't do this one again
If you are like me and have done many other races, you know you usually get the swag same day. This one though they take your excessively priced entry fee … MORE
If you are like me and have done many other races, you know you usually get the swag same day. This one though they take your excessively priced entry fee and then ask you to come a couple days prior to get your swag. It is not possible for anyone who works and then lives hours away. Yet, then they say, scan this code and we mail it. However, they don’t mention the $20.95 fee! No thanks ! Keep it just as your planned most will do!
A beautiful day to run a half Marathon
The course was flat and even and the scenery is great. All the participants were kind and courteous. They changed the course this year and we started the race behind … MORE
The course was flat and even and the scenery is great. All the participants were kind and courteous. They changed the course this year and we started the race behind the Casino Ballroom. We went around twice and then down to Salisbury. Less neighborhoods this year. A lot of spectators to cheer you on.
My favorite 5k so far!
It was my first time doing the Smuttynose Rockfest 5k - I would definitely recommend this race and plan on registering for next year's race! I love the windbreaker and … MORE
It was my first time doing the Smuttynose Rockfest 5k – I would definitely recommend this race and plan on registering for next year’s race! I love the windbreaker and medal – the food and music was good too! The race was well done!
Great Half Marathon
Race has beautiful scenery and the vibes are high. Course is mostly flat except miles 9-10 run through a neighborhood and is basically one gradual uphill. This caused elevation gain … MORE
Race has beautiful scenery and the vibes are high. Course is mostly flat except miles 9-10 run through a neighborhood and is basically one gradual uphill. This caused elevation gain to register at 171ft and not the 60ft advertised on the race site. The medals and swag are really nice! Lots of water stations along the course. Bib pickup went smoothly. Race started on time. Overall would recommend this race for a first time half marathoner or for someone trying to PR. 🙂
Amazing Race!
This was my first half marathon and I had the best time! After we finished we signed up for another half in May. There were plenty of bathroom stops and … MORE
This was my first half marathon and I had the best time! After we finished we signed up for another half in May. There were plenty of bathroom stops and was mostly a flat course (other than a few hills at mile 9 and 10). I highly recommend and will be coming back next year !
A must run race in New England
With this race known as the flattest race course in the area, I was very excited about this one. The course was fairly diverse, with parts of it in the … MORE
With this race known as the flattest race course in the area, I was very excited about this one. The course was fairly diverse, with parts of it in the down town beach area, as well as a local neighborhood and along the beach. The hardest mental part was the final three miles during the long stretch along the ocean, and seeing the finish line miles away. The race was very well run, parking was easy, and the post race treats were 💯.
Great experience
The race was amazing for my first half-marathon experience. Amazing weather, scenery, fellow racers, and spectators. The only thing I would change is possibly the amount of music. I felt … MORE
The race was amazing for my first half-marathon experience. Amazing weather, scenery, fellow racers, and spectators. The only thing I would change is possibly the amount of music. I felt like it needed more for it being the “rockfest”. But nonetheless, highly recommend!!
A Race You'll Want To Run!
It's called a fun run for a reason. Just do it!!!! This was the first year that I ran this race. I was originally supposed to run the half marathon … MORE
It’s called a fun run for a reason. Just do it!!!!
This was the first year that I ran this race. I was originally supposed to run the half marathon – dropped to the 5k. I was glad that I did as the after party was well worth attending for the extra time (and, I finished). I am signed up for the 5k next year, too.
Both half marathoners and 5k runners got the same swag, medal, (2) beer tickets and food. A whole lotta fun and can’t wait for next year! Amazing!
I’ll start with the cons:
* No same day bib pick up – that was confusing as they had a bib pick up tent on site.
Suggestion: Race day bib pick up be available
* No pace markers
* Massive crowding at the start line for both the half and 5k even though they started 45 minutes apart. The course was super packed as well – very difficult for runners
Suggestion: A “pace based” rolling start. ( (Each pace group- 10 minutes apart.)
* Bib and getting your time – the QR code on the bib didn’t work for some runners due to the bib being crunched while running. Mine did not and I wasn’t sure how to get my finish time. Later found the website.
* Couldn’t find a med tent
Pros:
* Bib pick up tent, gear drop, porta johns all very close to start line.
* With a few exceptions, the race was well organized. Those exceptions would not deter me from running this race again. Quite a production.
* Runners called to start line appropriately for both half and 5k.
* The race started on time – within a couple minutes.
* Plenty of porta John’s
* Plenty of parking
* National Anthem played
* Michael Bernier race announcer – he’s a lot of fun, friendly and interacts with the crowd. A great guy with an outstanding personality.
* Race swag and medal – the jacket is super cute and the medal was fitting to the race name. Both beautiful and well made. I appreciated the thought in the design. NOTE: Jacket runs small – size up 1 or 2 sizes depending on how you like your fit.
* I liked the 5k course, itself ending on a side street.
* The Strip Boston – Phenominal band. I can’t say enough good about these guys and the music they played. They engaged the crowd and were professional. They rocked Ocean Boulevard! They’re coming back next year. Yes!
* Food – Lobster rolls (gluten free, too), veggie wraps, clam chowder, minestrone and bananas. Lobster rolls – plenty of lobster – delicious. Warm clam chowder – very tasty. Everything else looked great, too.
* Drinks – (2) beer tickets, water. The alcohol area – half shell – well monitored.
* No confusion on route – knew where to go with race volunteers directing us.
* Offered pacers
* Charity – Girls On The Run
A race worth running even to have a lot of fun in the sun, the comrade and enjoy a great after party, the beach and all that Hampton offers.
‘Til next year Smutty Nose!
Most fun run and after party!
Mostly flat course along the coast and through neighborhoods with energizing and inspiring music along the way. The after-party was so much fun! And, who doesn't like beer and lobster … MORE
Mostly flat course along the coast and through neighborhoods with energizing and inspiring music along the way. The after-party was so much fun! And, who doesn’t like beer and lobster rolls?
My new favorite race
Will definitely be doing this race again! The course is flat and filled with spectators, communication was clear before and during the race, and the post race festivities were so … MORE
Will definitely be doing this race again! The course is flat and filled with spectators, communication was clear before and during the race, and the post race festivities were so much fun!
Best race!
I highly recommend this half marathon. The energy is so positive! The runners cheer one another on, and the community, family members and friends line the course. Such a good … MORE
I highly recommend this half marathon. The energy is so positive! The runners cheer one another on, and the community, family members and friends line the course. Such a good experience!
Super Impressed
I have run half marathons and even a full marathon before…but it’s been a while. This training cycle was HARD to say the least…(because LIFE). I was really starting to … MORE
I have run half marathons and even a full marathon before…but it’s been a while. This training cycle was HARD to say the least…(because LIFE). I was really starting to doubt if I’d be able to do it. My last training run, 12 miles, felt AWFUL. But miraculously, the race felt AMAZING. The vibe, the swag, the course. Hampton Beach is my happy place and the Ocean feeds my soul. There’s something to be said about the sunshine, fresh, salty air, and hearing those waves crash against the shore for those last miles. My literal only complaint…WHY WAS THERE MAYO ON THE LOBSTER ROLLS? 😭🦞🌊🏃🏻♀️🤣
Fun race beautiful scenery
It’s a great course not allot of inclines. Beautiful scenery running along the beach. The beer afterwards is just icing on the cake. You also get lobster rolls and other … MORE
It’s a great course not allot of inclines. Beautiful scenery running along the beach. The beer afterwards is just icing on the cake. You also get lobster rolls and other goodies. Only wish the medals were different for 5k and 1/2. But I guess that’s par for the course now a days. Different medals might help motivate someone to try the half instead of the 5k.
The ideal race for a PB attempt
This was my first race ever, and I had an awesome experience all-around. Parking was great and cheap. Amazing energy from the staff and crowd. Beautiful scenery along the beach. … MORE
This was my first race ever, and I had an awesome experience all-around. Parking was great and cheap. Amazing energy from the staff and crowd. Beautiful scenery along the beach. Couldn’t ask for a better half marathon race!
Great race all around, one of my favs
This was a great race! * easy to get to - I flew into Manchester, NH - 45 minute drive * stayed in a local "motel" - very nice and … MORE
This was a great race!
* easy to get to – I flew into Manchester, NH – 45 minute drive
* stayed in a local “motel” – very nice and reasonable
* walked to packet pickup from my hotel – very easy and organized
* many choices of great places for lunch & dinner
* started at 8:00 am (wish it were earlier
* walked to the start line – easy to find
* great scenery – ocean views and beach neighborhoods
* good crowd support
* water stations – wish there had been a few more but overall plenty
* swag – jacket that is really cute and wearable
* medal – worst part – just ok – no sign of NH on it
* after party – looked good with chowder and lobster rolls
* pictures – one free with an $11 option to buy them all
* course – well marked
* pre-race communication – very good, plenty of emails
* overall – one of my favorites of 48 races to date!
Sheer Joy
I love this event. 2024’s was my second time in three years and I plan to return as often as possible in the future. Pros: —It’s flat and fast —Great … MORE
I love this event. 2024’s was my second time in three years and I plan to return as often as possible in the future.
Pros:
—It’s flat and fast
—Great vibe: while it’s obviously a race, there’s room for the “happy to complete” crowd.
—Awesome swag and medal (including XS options for the wearables!)
—Live music on parts of the course
—Live rock concert, lobster, chowder, and 2 craft beers at the finish line
—Ocean views and a bridge on the course
—A LOT of photos! I had 52 to choose from!
—Great volunteers
—Awesome host/MC bringing great energy to the day
—Water and Gatorade stations were manned and stocked until the end.
—Pacers, including for slowpokes like me!
—Huge crowd of cheering spectators at the finish line, even for the back-of-packers.
Cons:
—Expensive (but you get the value for your money and it’s a little cheaper if you register early)
—Strict 3h course limit: after 3 hours, the roads reopen, aid stations pack up, the photographers no longer cover the finish line, and you may be in for a long walk home on the sidewalk. This may not be a con for many. This is an amazing first half-marathon experience, but only if you’re confident you can finish in the time allotted.
—There’s a dangerous section on the course where the fast runners and back-of-packers were running toward each other on a narrow path. No one collided that I observed, but it easily could have happened.
—Parking is tight; $20 for the day is the *cheapest* available, and you have to get there by 6:05 to get it.
—If you arrive in time for good parking, you must wait in the cold for two hours before the race starts.
—The lobster “rolls” are three-bite sliders and the soup is potato chowder. Yummy, but definitely bring your own post-race fuel. Consider the event offerings as dessert.
—The beer line/concert entry was at least 30 minutes long by the time I got there. Expected, but I had to leave rather than partake. Run fast or wait a long time for your beer.
Overall, I highly recommend this event. It has everything you want in a half-marathon experience (unless your valid preference is small and/or hilly). Many of the “pros” are unique to this race, and most of the “cons” are standard for most big races. Enjoy your Life, and run Rockfest!
all-around winner
fantastic race that I highly recommend. Fairly big race with lots of crowd support. Flat, fast course. the only elevation is over one bridge. race production/communication is good. no expo, … MORE
fantastic race that I highly recommend. Fairly big race with lots of crowd support. Flat, fast course. the only elevation is over one bridge. race production/communication is good. no expo, but the swag is great. Love the medal. Food after the race is good and plentiful. Very crowded beer garden. ended up giving ticket away and going to the Smuttynose brewery a short drive from race and having lunch/beer. I live close to this race, but I would definitely pick this as a destination race/50 staters.