Ann Arbor Firecracker 5K: Run, Walk, or Ruck

Kick off your Fourth of July the Epic Races way: join us in downtown Ann Arbor on the 4th of July for our classic Firecracker 5K: Run, Walk, or Ruck! Our 3.1-mile course gets underway at a truly red, white, and blue locale: the intersection of Liberty and 4th... where else would you start a race on the 4th of July? Racers then loop around downtown and come in for a spectacular star-spangled finish in front of thousands of spectators.

2026 Schedule of Events:

6:30 AM — Packet Pick-Up and Race-Day Registration open

7:45 AM — Packet Pick-Up and Race-Day Registration close

7:47 AM — Hot dog eaters to the stage

7:50 AM — Pacers to line up

7:52 AM — Remarks

7:55 AM — National Anthem

8:00 AM — 200-meter Kids’ Dash

8:05 AM — Ruckers Start

8:08 AM — Hot Dog Eating

8:10 AM —  5K Start

8:20 AM — 1 Mile Fun Run Start

Add an all-American angle to your outing by opting for one of our 3 special holiday divisions:

☆It's Back for 2026☆ Rucking Division: Rucking is simply walking or hiking while carrying a weighted rucksack or backpack. It is a staple of military training, as soldiers must be able to carry weapons, food and other supplies for long distances. Embrace an even HEAVIER challenge when you sign up for the Ruck Division.

The Flag Carrying Division: Participants in this patriotic category will run or walk their 5K proudly bearing a mounted 3 x 5 American flag from start to finish.

Hot Dog Eating Division:  It’s simply not the Fourth of July without hot dogs, and those who choose this challenge — up to 20 competitors — will try to chow down on four dogs in 76 seconds, then get their 5K underway. Consider it our version of the world-famous Nathan’s Hot-Dog Eating Contest, which is held annually in New York City every Independence Day.

Don't have the time for 5K? Try our timed 1-Mile Fun Run! A fun, friendly course awaits runners and walkers of all ages who want to show their Firecracker fervor but with a little less mileage. Whether you choose to make it competitive or relaxed, enjoy this frolic through downtown on the 4th of July!