The Santa Cruz Sunrise Rotary Club is gearing up for a milestone Fourth of July tradition, as the Firecracker Run returns for its 41st year in 2026, coinciding with the nation’s 250th birthday.
Organizers are aiming to make this year’s event the largest in its history, with a goal of more than 1,000 participants ranging from competitive runners to families, walkers and children. The race will once again be based at Harvey West Park, a longtime hub for the community celebration.
“This is one you don’t want to miss,” organizers said in promoting the event. “Lace up your shoes, hit the pavement, and kick off Independence Day the way this community has for over four decades.”
The event features three courses designed for different abilities and ages.
The 10K route takes runners through Pogonip Park and its “Thrill of the Hill,” continues onto Spring Trail through a University of California, Santa Cruz meadow, and returns through westside neighborhoods before finishing at Harvey West Park.
A 5K course stays within the Harvey West Business Park area and is described as flat, fast and fully accessible for strollers, wheelchairs and ADA participants. A 1K Kids’ Fun Run opens the morning for younger runners.
Start times begin at 8 a.m. with the Kids’ 1K, followed by the 10K at 8:30 a.m. and the 5K at 8:40 a.m. After the races, participants gather back at the park for a community celebration featuring burritos, ice cream from Izzy’s and awards ceremony scheduled around 10 a.m.
Organizers are also encouraging participants to refer friends and family when registering. Those who successfully refer five additional runners can receive registration refunds, depending on race category.
Bib pickup will take place Friday, July 3, from 3 to 7 p.m. at Woodhouse Blending & Brewing on Madrone Street, where the first 200 participants will receive a free beer. Race-day pickup will also be available at the Harvey West Park clubhouse from 7 to 8:30 a.m.
Participants are encouraged to arrive early on race day, with parking recommended at the nearby Costco lot before 7:15 a.m. to avoid road closures.