Spring is finally in the air, and it’s time to dust off those running shoes and join in the fun at the 21st annual Newton Heartbreak Hill Road Race & Walk.

The race takes place on Sunday, April 14 (the day before the Boston Marathon), from 10:30am – 3:30pm, starting at Newton City Hall. The course is a 1/2 mile up and down famed Heartbreak Hill. The race is sanctioned by USA Track & Field, NE; and all runners receive a t-shirt, seedling tree, race medal and official digital clock timing. The 1st , 2nd & 3 rd place winners in each category receive a trophy.

Of course, there’s also is wild cheering, music, face painting and games with Lasell College students…and admiration all around!

The pre-race pasta/pizza party is a great way to start off the festivities, the day before the race on Saturday, April 13, at 5:30pm at Newton City Hall. The dinner is hosted by Papa Gino’s and Whole Foods Market and is free to all registrants and $3 per person for family and guests.

Not a runner? Join in the Family Walk at 3:00 or the shorter Intergenerational Walk around City Hall at 10:30am. Registration is  online at the Newton Community Pride website.