The DWTC & MC Kids Compassion Firecracker 5K starts at 9:30 a.m. on July 4th in Dayton, Ohio, giving you a morning race slot on Independence Day. The 5K event launches from 101 E. Helena St. and costs $30 to enter. This is a straightforward local race option if you're in the Dayton area for the holiday weekend and want to log a 5K before Fourth of July festivities take over your schedule. The early start time means you can finish and still have the rest of the day ahead.
From the Race Organizer
The Morning of July 4th, We are coming together to celebrate health, fitness, community support/connections and building positivity this July 4th, 2026 at the DWTC & MC Kids Compassion Firecracker 5K! Join runners, walkers, families, and strollers for a high-energy race through Dayton’s Island Park & Triangle Park that brings the community together in true Fellowship for fun and support of children battling illness. Whether you’re chasing a personal best, trying to simply make some new connections, give back to the community or just coming out for fun, this event is for all ages and fitness levels. Expect an electric atmosphere filled with music, motivational running stations, bubbles, superheroes, and vibes that will fill your fitness and spiritual cup, making the holiday weekend a blessing from start to finish. Big Thanks to our event Partners: Mount Calvary Kids Children’s Ministry as we support **Brave Gowns (hyperlink)** – an organization that supplies fun, kid friendly decorative gowns for children with long hospital stays. This event focuses on the importance of helping, supporting and giving back to our community members that are dealing with extensive medical conditions! We’re having fun and showing compassion by running for children who have difficulty running with us! What to Expect: • 5K run/walk for all levels | Hype, Entertaining, Water Stations for runners along the course set up for support, motivation and sun Fun!! • Family-friendly (strollers welcome!) & Donation Opportunities • Music By DJ Aura and Face Painting • Food, refreshments, and an Ice-Cream Truck • Finisher medals & event t-shirt included Free Shirt: Community Sponsor-The Reserve on Third Energy, Recovery and Health Eating Community Sponsor: PHX Energy Drink | Boom Nutrition | Better Blend Event Schedule: • 8:30 AM – Race day registration & bib pickup • 9:30 AM – Race start (5K distance) Location: Dayton, Island Park Stay after for: Refreshments, Fellowship, Music, & Dancing! Lace up, grab your water and your family/Friends and come out to be a part of a movement that celebrates health, unity, and the power of community.
Hotels Near This Race
Find accommodation close to the start line in Dayton, OH. Sorted by distance from the race venue. Book early — race weekend hotels fill fast.
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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 Dayton, OH.
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 DWTC & MC Kids Compassion Firecracker 5K 2026 — Dayton, OH?
DWTC & MC Kids Compassion Firecracker 5K 2026 — Dayton, OH takes place on July 4, 2026. The race is held in Dayton, Ohio.
Where is DWTC & MC Kids Compassion Firecracker 5K 2026 — Dayton, OH held?
DWTC & MC Kids Compassion Firecracker 5K 2026 — Dayton, OH is held at 101 E. Helena St. in Dayton, Ohio.
Where can I find hotels near DWTC & MC Kids Compassion Firecracker 5K 2026 — Dayton, OH?
RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in Dayton. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.
