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FIRECRACKER 4K

Sat, Jul 4, 2026, 9:00 AM EDT

Location
University Park, PA
Medlar Field at Lubrano Park - Penn State Main Campus, Corner of Curtin Rd & Porter Rd, 16802
Featured distance
4K
Type
RUN
Official registration

Sign up and verify details on the organizer’s official page.

At a glance

A patriotic 4K run/walk on Penn State's campus, directly supporting Central Pa's spectacular 4thFest fireworks show.

  • Fun
  • Scenic
  • Competitive
  • Festive
  • For a Cause

Great for: cause-driven runners, runners who like a competitive edge

Less ideal for: walkers-only pacing

Kick off your July 4th celebrations with the 22nd annual Firecracker 4K run/walk on the beautiful Penn State main campus. This event is a central part of the Central Pa 4thFest, with all proceeds directly supporting the nation's renowned fireworks show. Don your most patriotic attire to celebrate America's birthday, especially its 250th milestone this year. It's a festive way to enjoy the holiday and contribute to a beloved community tradition.

What to expect

  • Enjoy a run or walk on the scenic Penn State main campus.
  • Compete for overall and age group awards, then enjoy post-race refreshments.
  • Receive a tech-style race T-shirt if registered during early signup periods.

Standout details

  • Supports Central Pa 4thFest fireworks
  • Run on beautiful Penn State campus
  • Celebrate America's 250th birthday
  • Tech-style race T-shirt included

Auto-drafted from the public listing — confirm details on the official event page before signing up.

Vibe Check

Easygoing

Distance only — terrain and weather data unavailable.

The course

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From the organizer

Thank you for making our 2025 Firecracker 4K a huge success!! Your participation is key to our ability to host one of the nation's best July 4th   fireworks shows.

***************************************************************************************************

2026 FIRECRACKER 4K

Our 22nd annual Firecracker 4K run/walk kicks off the Central Pa 4thFest's

July 4th celebration . Last year 870 runners/walkers kicked off our annual

celebration of  America's birthday.

* This year is extra special as we all celebrate America's 250th !*

This year's race will once again be run on the beautiful Penn State main

campus starting near Beaver Stadium located on the east side of campus.

Don your most patriotic apparel and join in the fun. Following the race return

later in the day with your friends and family to enjoy another amazing Central

Pa 4thFest fireworks show!!

Where/When :  Friday, July 4th @ 9 a.m.

NOTE: Day of race registration is available from 7:30 - 8:30 a.m. on the mezzanine inside the PSU Medlar Field Baseball Stadium located on the east side of the PSU main campus.

ONLINE REGISTRATION ONLY! -  use your smartphone, tablet or computer to register.

T-shirt: 2025 Firecracker 4K race T-shirts are guaranteed to all race registrants registered during

the early signup periods (ends June 25th).

(Tech style shirt available in both Youth (Y) and Adult (A) sizes: Y-S, Y-M, Y-L, A-S, A-M, A-L, A-XL,

A-XXL, A-XXXL)

Awards:

* Overall: Top male (1) and Female (1)

Top 3 (M&F) each age category: 10 & under, 11-14, 15-18, 19-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70+

* Post race refreshments will be provided. Race route will have a water station mid-route.

* All proceeds from the race go to supporting all 4thFest activities

* Race will be professionally timed by the Bryn Mawr Racing Co.

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