Before the fireworks begin, hundreds of runners, walkers and families will gather downtown for the Firecracker 4 Miler, a Fourth of July tradition hosted by the Fayetteville Running Club that celebrates community, fitness and local student-athletes.
"The Firecracker 4 Miler is woven directly into Fayetteville's identity as the All-American City," said Shawn Wussow of the Fayetteville Running Club. "With a 7 a.m. start, the morning transforms into a magnificent sea of red, white and blue."
Nearly everyone arrives wearing patriotic colors, and for many local families, participating has become a cherished holiday tradition.
"It's a nice way to start the holiday before you head out to those BBQs, fireworks and other festivities," Wussow said.
The Firecracker 4 Miler continues to attract strong community support, with organizers expecting approximately 850 participants this year, a level of participation that allows the Fayetteville Running Club to expand its scholarship program and enhance the race experience for runners.
“We've grown every year, and that means better scholarships and swag for the participants," Wussow said.
Beyond the festive atmosphere, the Firecracker 4 Miler serves a larger purpose. Proceeds from the event support the Fayetteville Running Club's Student Athlete Scholarship Program, which awards scholarships to local students pursuing higher education.
"We award up to four local students scholarships to the college they will attend," Wussow said. "It's not about being the fastest or having the highest GPA. Sometimes it's the personal stories that help win the scholarships."
For Wussow, one of the most rewarding aspects of the event is seeing the impact firsthand.
"It's really nice to be a part of a tangible effort that you can see the results from," he said. "Often the students come back and join one of our group runs after college."
The course winds through downtown Fayetteville, passing landmarks such as Arsenal Park, Hay Street and Segra Stadium before finishing at North South Brewing Company. Beyond the race, participants can enjoy brunch, local vendors, family activities and visits from Woodpeckers mascot Bunker.
"We strive to provide a premium experience," Wussow said. "We want every participant to leave with lasting holiday memories."
One of the event's defining characteristics is its welcoming atmosphere. Elite runners share the course with first-time participants, families with strollers, walkers and dogs.
"As a member of the Road Runners Club of America, we pledge to be inclusive and supportive of all abilities," Wussow said. "We all started somewhere, and along the way we met others and became like family."
That sense of inclusion has created memorable moments over the years.
Community partnerships also play a major role in the event's success. Local businesses, sponsors and volunteers help support race operations, scholarships and participant experiences.
"Local businesses, sponsors and our volunteers are the lifeblood of any charitable event," Wussow said. "When the Firecracker flourishes, our downtown partners flourish right alongside us, and that collective success is the very essence of community partnership."
For first-time participants who may be hesitant to sign up, Wussow offers simple encouragement.
"Do not hesitate simply lace up your shoes and join us," he said. "Whether you choose to run or walk, you'll be embraced by the most supportive community in the city. You'll see not only tears of joy, but tears of triumph. Come take a walk or run with your neighbors and make some new friends. No shortage of cowbells and high-fives here."
The Firecracker 4 Miler takes place July 4 in downtown Fayetteville. Registration is available online through RunSignUp at https://runsignup.com/Race/NC/Fayetteville/Firecracker4MilerFayetteville. For more information, course maps and registration details, visit the Fayetteville Running Club's social media pages or race website.

(Photo courtesy of Fayetteville Running Club's Facebook page)