Firecracker 5K returns to Bryson City
Since its first running 34 years ago, the Firecracker 5K has grown from 30 to 300 runners. Donated photo
Thursday, July 4, marks the 34th running of the Firecracker 5K in Bryson City. Created in 1989 to celebrate the town’s centennial, this annual tradition has grown from 30 to 300 runners.
The flat course starts in town, heads toward Great Smoky Mountains National Park, through the Deep Creek community and finishes at Riverfront Park. The Rotary Club of Bryson City first sponsored the race in 2016, using the proceeds to fund their service projects in the community and around the world. This year, the money raised will go towards scholarships for Swain County students. In the past 10 years the Rotary Club has awarded over $750,000 to rising college freshmen.
Runners from across the U.S. have run this race every year. Every registered runner receives race t-shirts while supplies last and the top male and female finishers receive an award, while the top three finishers in each age group are awarded medals. Interested runners and walkers can participate in this Bryson City Fourth of July tradition by registering online at runbrysoncity.com.
