With afternoon temperatures consistently reaching triple digits, the idea of a fun run may seem counterintuitive.

But have no fear, for three area Fourth of July 5-kilometer fun runs will have participants under the shade and out of the summer heat long before the temperature gauges pop.

Denton Parks and Recreation will hold the 11th annual Liberty Run Saturday at 7:30 a.m. The event will get under way at the North Lakes Recreation Center, and the course will wind through neighborhoods in the North Lakes Park area before ending back at the recreation center.

A $20 registration fee includes a race T-shirt, as well as snacks and beverages, and a one-mile walk will be offered as well. The top three male and female runners in each of 13 age groups will receive awards, and all walkers will receive a participation medal.

Runners and walkers are encouraged to arrive at the recreation center at 6:30 a.m. to check in before the race.

About 445 people participated in the Liberty 5K run and one-mile walk last year, said City of Denton recreation superintendent Kathy Schaeffer. She added that registration has been slower in 2009, and that the parks department is hoping to field at least 300 runners the 11th time around.

“And then, participants can keep the fun going at the Fourth of July Jubilee,” Schaeffer said.

The jubilee will be held at Quakertown Park and will feature children’s attractions and a parade. It begins at 9:30 a.m.

Sanger Parks and Recreation will host its own Freedom Fest 5K run and one-mile fun walk Saturday as well. That race is scheduled to start at 8 a.m. at Sanger Park on the Square, and the registration fee is $20.

There will also be an opportunity for runners in the Double Oak area to get in a good morning jog at the Declaration Dash 5K, hosted by the North Texas Striders. The 5K will start at 7:45 a.m., while the 1-kilometer kids’ race will begin at 8 a.m.

MATT MARTINEZ can be reached at 940-566-6873. His e-mail address is mmartinez@dentonrc.com .