Firecracker 5K - Bryson City
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Event overview
The Firecracker 5K is scheduled for Saturday, July 4, 2026, in Bryson City, North Carolina. The Rotary Club of Bryson City hosts the 36th annual race. The course starts and finishes in the historic town of Bryson City and runs through the Deep Creek community, near the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. The race is followed by the Freedom Festival, with all-day family events and fireworks in the evening. Additional local activities mentioned include whitewater rafting, a train ride, and waterfall hikes.
Registration, fees and packet pick-up
Race entry opens on April 1, 2026. The listed price for the event is $42. Registrations completed by June 10 receive a commemorative race shirt; later registrations may not be guaranteed the requested size. Onsite registration and packet pick-up are scheduled the day before at BC Outdoors, 169 Main Street, Bryson City, and on race day at 101 Mitchell Street, Bryson City.
Awards and location
Trophies will be given to the overall male and female winners, and a challenge trophy is noted for those who beat the 2024 overall winners. Medals are awarded to the top three male and female finishers in standard age-group divisions. The event site is Riverfront Park, 101 Mitchell St, Bryson City, NC, behind the Swain County Clerk of Court building. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
