Ann Arbor Firecracker 5K: Run, Walk, or Ruck 2027 — Ann Arbor, MI
Date
July 4, 2027
Location
Ann Arbor, MI
Venue
TBD
Start Time
8:00 AM
Entry Fee
$0.00 – $57.00
Events
5K Run & Walk, 5K Rucking Division, 5K Flag Carrying Division, 5K Hot Dog Eating Division, 1-Mile Fun Run, Kids 5K (10 and under) (Free with paid adult)
The Ann Arbor Firecracker 5K kicks off at 8:00 AM on July 4th, giving you time to settle in the night before if you're traveling from out of town. Held in Ann Arbor, Michigan, this Independence Day event offers multiple distance options: a 200-meter option, 1-mile distance, and the full 5K, plus a rucking category for those looking to add weight to their run. Entry fees range from free to $57 depending on your chosen event. If travel plans fall through, a virtual participation option lets you complete your distance from anywhere and still be part of the race. Whether you're a serious 5K competitor, a recreational walker, or training in rucking gear, this holiday race accommodates various fitness levels and goals.
From the Race Organizer
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. 2027 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 2027☆ 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! Our littlest firecrackers are invited to make a bang all their own in our Kids’ 200-Meter Dash. Open to competitors ages 8 and under, our Kids’ Dash offers children the opportunity soar like eagles down Liberty Street, completing their race at the same finish line as Mom or Dad! Kids can continue celebrating Independence Day at the corner of State and William, where they can take part in the Epic Races float in the Ann Arbor Jaycees' 4th of July parade (accompanied by a parent or guardian)! The Firecracker 5K is walker friendly! Medals for all participants in all divisions! Zero Waste The event is a Leave No Trace event. Learn more about our race-day recycling and composting efforts here. Want more information about running a great race and leaving no trace? Click here to visit Happy Planet Running!
Hotels Near This Race
Find accommodation close to the start line in Ann Arbor, MI. Sorted by distance from the race venue. Book early — race weekend hotels fill fast.
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Ann Arbor Firecracker 5K: Run, Walk, or Ruck 2027 — Ann Arbor, MI
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Race Travel Insurance
Don't forget travel insurance for July 4.
You've trained for months and booked a trip to Ann Arbor, MI.
A pre-race injury, a delayed flight, or a family emergency can derail the whole thing.
Travel insurance can help cover your race entry fee, hotel, and flights if you can't make it,
and may cover medical costs if something goes wrong on the course. Plans typically only run
5-7% of your total trip cost — and running events are covered under standard plans with no
additional coverage needed.
Trip cancellation up to 100% of prepaid costs
Running events covered under standard plans — no add-ons needed
Trip interruption up to 150% of non-refundable costs
When is Ann Arbor Firecracker 5K: Run, Walk, or Ruck 2027 — Ann Arbor, MI?
Ann Arbor Firecracker 5K: Run, Walk, or Ruck 2027 — Ann Arbor, MI takes place on July 4, 2027. The race is held in Ann Arbor, Michigan.
Where is Ann Arbor Firecracker 5K: Run, Walk, or Ruck 2027 — Ann Arbor, MI held?
Ann Arbor Firecracker 5K: Run, Walk, or Ruck 2027 — Ann Arbor, MI is held at TBD in Ann Arbor, Michigan.
Where can I find hotels near Ann Arbor Firecracker 5K: Run, Walk, or Ruck 2027 — Ann Arbor, MI?
RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in Ann Arbor. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.
