The streets of downtown Concord will soon come alive with music, energy, and community spirit as the 24th annual Rock’N Race returns on Wednesday, May 6 at 6 p.m. This fundraising event, which supports cancer patients at the Concord Hospital Payson Center for Cancer Care HOPE Resource Center, is expected to draw thousands of participants and spectators for an evening of walking, running, and live entertainment.

The Rock’N Race offers both a 5K run and a shorter walk option, making it accessible for people of all ages and fitness levels. Participants are encouraged to fundraise through the peer-to-peer platform and enjoy live music along the course, followed by donated food and festivities on the State House lawn.

Event timeline

Registration and packet pickup are scheduled for Tuesday, May 5, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Christ the King Parish in Concord, as well as Wednesday, May 6, starting at noon under the registration tent on Capitol Street in Concord. Participants who have not registered in advance are encouraged to arrive early to allow time for check-in. Those participating as part of a team should plan to receive their shirt and bib from their team captain.

Opening ceremonies will begin at 5:50 p.m. with a brief speaking program, followed by a bell-ringing by a cancer survivor to officially kick off the race at 6 p.m. Live bands positioned along the course will provide entertainment and encouragement throughout the route, creating the event’s signature “rock” experience.

Most participants complete the course within about an hour. Post-race festivities, including music and refreshments, will continue until 7:30 p.m, offering participants and spectators time to gather, celebrate, and connect. For attendees, comfortable shoes, festive attire and a spirit of enthusiasm are highly recommended. The event is rain or shine.

Road closures and traffic impacts

Plan ahead if you are traveling in downtown Concord on the evening of the event, as several streets will be temporarily closed to support the race and ensure participant safety.

Road closures for the May 6 event include:

  • North State St. at Pleasant St. (Northbound) from 4-8:30 p.m.
  • North State St. at Capitol St. (Northbound) from 4-8:30 p.m.
  • North State St. at Centre St. (Southbound) from 4-8:30 p.m.
  • Green St. between Centre and School St. From 5:45-8 p.m. (or until the last walker passes)
  • Warren St. between Green and North State St. from 4-7 p.m. (or until the last walker passes)
  • North Spring St. at Centre St. from 5:45 – 7:30 p.m. (or until the last walker passes)
  • Rumford St. at Centre St. from 5:45 – 7:30 p.m. (or until the last walker passes)
  • Liberty to School St. (northbound) 5:45 – 7:30 p.m. (or until the last walker passes)

Drivers are advised to avoid the downtown area between 5:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Detours will be clearly marked, and police officers and volunteers will be stationed at key intersections to assist with traffic flow.

A community tradition

Rock’N Race has become a meaningful tradition in Concord.

“Our residents really appreciate the Payson Center for Cancer Care and Concord Hospital for the wonderful services they provide to all our residents,” Hal Carter, co-captain of the Havenwood Heritage Heights team, said during the Rock’N Race kickoff breakfast event. “We’re thankful for all the care they offer. Helping even just one person has an impact on so many other people. This is such a blessing to not only that person, but the whole community.”

Now in its 24th year, the event raises funds that go directly toward helping local cancer patients and their families by providing financial assistance for everyday expenses during treatment.

“All of us have been touched by cancer in some way, whether it’s a friend, family member, or co-worker,” said Linda Lorden, president of Merrimack County Savings Bank (the event’s presenting sponsor). “To have this resource in our backyard is really an awesome thing.”

Community involvement is at the heart of the event’s success. Whether participating, volunteering, or cheering from the sidelines, residents are encouraged to attend and show their support.

“I am tremendously proud of what our hospital and this community are able to offer these patients,” said Tamara Wren, director of Payson Center for Cancer Care. “Everyone makes a difference, and every day we come to work, it’s an honor to be able to serve this good community.”