This story originally appeared in The Centre County Gazette.
When the boom of a firework signals the start of the Firecracker 4K on Friday, July 4, at 9 a.m., it won’t just mark the beginning of a 2.48-mile race, but it’ll also kick off an entire day of patriotic celebration.
Now in its 21st year, the Firecracker 4K has become a tradition for runners, walkers and families alike during the Central PA 4th Fest. With nearly 800 participants last year, the race continues to draw a wide mix of serious athletes and casual runners. Some are wearing red, white and blue, while others are pushing strollers and making memories, but all are celebrating.
“There’s something about the energy of a race that just gets people kind of started up or kick in the year for the July 4th day,” Denny Myers, race director and chairman of the Firecracker 4k event, said. “That whole Curtin Road is just covered with people. It’s exciting to see.”
As part of the Central PA 4th Fest, the Firecracker 4K sets the tone for one of the area’s biggest annual celebrations. After the race, thousands stick around for the full slate of activities: a parade, live music, food vendors and of course, the fireworks show.
“It’s just a great kick off for the day,” Myers said. “Get everybody up and going and a lot of people come back then for all the other activities or a lot of the other activities later in the day and of course the fireworks in the evening.”
Central PA 4th Fest President Kurt Weibel also commented on the fun to be had at this year’s 4th Fest.
“The 4th Fest has created a parade that runs downtown and during this time, the business opens their doors. In addition, spectators travel to the event and stay the night in hotels,” Weibel said, adding that all of the funds go toward boosting the economy in Centre County.
The route has changed frequently over the years, but what hasn’t changed is the race’s focus on fun. At just under 2.5 miles, it’s short enough to be approachable, yet still a draw for competitive runners.
“Even though it’s a short distance, we do get some very serious runners that will run the course in a pretty fast time,” Myers said. “But the big thing is that we have a lot of families that come out with their kids, people that aren’t real serious runners that don’t mind doing it because it’s again, only about 2 and a half miles.”
The race offers age group awards for male and female finishers. Participants who register before Wednesday, June 25, get an event T-shirt as well as a lower entry fee. All proceeds directly support 4th Fest programming.
“The registration fees and the sponsor fees that we collect are a big contributor to helping us to be able to put on that big show at the end of the day,” Myers said. “And also to help support the other activities that we provide at no cost; a lot of the kids activities, things like that.”
According to Myers, volunteers are still needed.
“We have need for race marshals for people to stand around the course and just monitor parking lot access points. They also kind of serve as cheerleaders for the races. And we need help with water stations. In fact, I’m looking very hard right now for some about six volunteers to help man the water station.”
Weibel also emphasized the importance of volunteers and financial contributors.
“I believe this is my 20th year and there have been some challenges and many exciting times,” he said. “The Board always has said, ‘We shoot the show the community supports.’”
Looking ahead, Myers hinted at something even bigger for next year.
“I’m sure there’ll be some unique things that we’ll add in to try to celebrate the whole 250th birthday of America.”
But for now, the focus is on keeping the spirits high for 2025.
“It’s just a fun way to start the day. That’s why people keep coming back.”
Weibel offered praise for Penn State for allowing the use of land to put on the event, but also emphasized the importance of the Central PA 4th Fest being a community-financed event.
“The community has to know that this event is not a Penn State event. Yes, Penn State allows us to use the land, and 4th Fest is very grateful for this use,” he explained. “Over the years, the cost of putting the show on has increased while the community donors have not.”
To register for the Firecracker 4K, visit runsignup.com/Race/PA/UniversityPark/Firecracker4K4thFest.
