Folsom Firecracker Race
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Event Overview
The Folsom Firecracker is a community-oriented running event held annually on July 4th in Folsom, California. The race provides a healthy start to Independence Day festivities, with courses that travel primarily along the paved paths of the Lake Natoma bike trails and offer views overlooking the American River. The event features three timed distances and a non-competitive run for children.
Distance Options
Participants can choose from the following distances:
- 10K (Timed)
- 5K (Timed)
- 2 Mile (Timed)
- Kids Fun Run (1/4 Mile, non-competitive for ages 10 and younger)
Participant Information
The start and finish lines are located at 145 Parkshore Drive. Free parking is available in the surrounding corporate parks, though early arrival is recommended. The course follows a "keep right" etiquette to allow faster participants to pass on the left. Finishers in all categories receive a medal upon completion. For the timed events, registration includes a race t-shirt and chip timing.
Awards and Divisions
Awards are presented to the top three male, female, and non-binary finishers overall and within specific age groups. In addition to standard age categories, the 5K and 10K races include special divisions for:
- Adaptive athletes
- First responders and law enforcement
- Active military and veterans
- Folsom residents
- Cancer survivors
- Stroller entrants (strollers must start at the back of the pack)
Post-race activities include vendor booths and complimentary refreshments such as sno-cones. The event serves as a fundraiser for Shriners Hospitals for Children Northern California and Cancer Champions. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
