Santa Cruz Firecracker
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41st Annual Santa Cruz Sunrise Rotary Firecracker Run
The Santa Cruz Sunrise Rotary Firecracker Run is an Independence Day tradition held at Harvey West Park in Santa Cruz, California. The 2026 event marks the 41st year of the race and coincides with the 250th anniversary of the United States. Managed by the Santa Cruz Sunrise Rotary Club, 100% of the proceeds from the participants are donated to support local youth in Santa Cruz County.
The event offers three distinct distances to accommodate different experience levels and accessibility needs:
- 10K: Features a route through Pogonip Park and the Spring Trail at the UCSC meadow before returning through westside neighborhoods.
- 5K: A flat course located within the Harvey West Business Park area that is stroller, ADA, and wheelchair accessible.
- Kids 1K: A fun run designed for children to participate in the morning activities.
Post-race activities take place at Harvey West Park, including an awards ceremony and refreshments such as burritos and Italian ice. Registration is open to runners and walkers. Participants can pick up their race materials on the day before the event at Woodhouse Blending & Brewing or on the morning of the race at the park clubhouse. Parking is available at the nearby Costco. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.