Thursday is the Fourth of July, a day to reflect on the independence of our country.

There are events galore scheduled. From Bath Heritage Days, to parades in several Maine towns, to the picnics planned, Thursday will be busy for many.

But, before the barbecue’s flicker, with chicken, steak, hamburgers, hot dogs, pototo salad, baked beans, pies, etc., runners from across the area will venture out early in the morning, with a couple Mid-coast choices available.

At 7:30 a.m., the 35th annual L.L. Bean Fourth of July 10K will take place through the streets of Freeport, while in Bath the 34th annual Heritage Days 5- Miler and 1-Mile Fun Run is scheduled for an 8:30 a.m. start.

L.L. Bean 10K

Last year’s race brought out 1,600 participants for the annual race, with Jonny Wilson of Falmouth taking the top spot in 31:40, followed by Freeport’s Josh Zolla in 32:49 and Christopher Harmon in 32:59.

The top woman in 2012 was Erica Jesseman of Scarborough in 36:43, with Meredith Anand in second (37:53) and former Olympic Gold Medalist Joan Benoit- Samuelson of Freeport third in 38:07.

As of Friday, 1,311 runners had registered online, leaving 100 spots available on the day of the race. Runners will meet in Freeport Town Park, with the race beginning on the corner of Bow and Park Streets.

According to the event website (www.llbeanroadrace.com), “the funds from the L.L. Bean Fourth of July 10K are donated to the YMCA of Southern Maine. Over the past 11 years, more than $160,000 has been raised through the road race, specifically to provide financial assistance for children to participate in Y youth and family programs such as summer camp, pre-school and youth swim team at the Casco Bay Branch in Freeport.

“The grand total over the past 11 years is equivalent to sending over 800 kids each to a week of summer day camp.”

The 10K course is a USATF-certified course.

Awards will be given to the top three male and female overall winners, with additional awards presented in several age categories.

The 1-Mile Fun Run will begin at 9:10 a.m. Though strollers are not permitted during the 10K, they are allowed during the Fun Run. A $100 L.L. Bean gift card will be given to the first male or female to break the 10K course record. The course records are held by Pat Tarpy (men, 30:52, 2010) and Kristin Barry (women, 35:12, 2008).

For more information, call the information line at 552-6062.

Early packet pick-up is highly encouraged. Runners can get their packets today from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. and on the day of the race from 6 a.m. to 7:15 a.m. in Old Town Hall, located at 5 Park Street.

Parking is available in various locations, including the Freeport Village Station parking garage.

Heritage Days 5-Miler

Bath’s own Chris Kibler cruised to the 5- Miler win last year, his third win in the past four years in the event. His time of 26:29 was ahead of Jason Cakouros, who crossed in 27:43, with Timothy Roberts taking third in 28:49.

In the women’s race, Katherine Veitschegger was tops in 32:31, followed by Sandy Bouchard (34:59) and Katie Payson (35:00).

The 1-Mile Fun Run kicks off the festivities at 7:45 a.m., and is open to ages 3-80.

The 5-Miler begins at 8:30 a.m. The course winds through downtown Bath, taking runners along the Kennebec River to the end of Washington Street.

Preregistration is highly recommended at www.running4free.com. Registration will also be held from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 a.m. at Bath City Hall.

“Being a part of the event and Heritage Days makes everyone feel like they are a part of the community and of Bath,” said Bath Parks and Recreation’s Karyn Garofoli. “So far, we have over 100 people registered for the 5-Miler, and another 50 for the Fun Run. And, that doesn’t include those who have already registered online! It is going to be a great event again this year.”

For more information, call Garofoli at 443-8260.