FREEdom Firework 5k

Celebrate Independence Day with a Bang at the Lakewood 5K Trail Run! FREE 5k Group Run Donations are welcome to cover the Nature Preserve reservation fee and fireworks post run. We will host a community cook out post run so please bring something to contribute and be ready to tailgate as the sun sets and the fireworks light up the sky! Join us this 4th of July for an unforgettable evening at the Lakewood Nature Preserve, where the beauty of nature meets the excitement of fireworks. Lace up your running shoes and hit the trails for our 5K race, winding through lush greenery, towering trees, and the serene backdrop of Lakewood’s pristine surroundings. Whether you’re a seasoned trail runner or looking for a family-friendly activity to kick off the holiday, this event promises something special for everyone. As the sun sets, the atmosphere will transform into a festive celebration of freedom, community, and fitness. After crossing the finish line, participants and spectators are invited to gather for a spectacular fireworks show that will light up the night sky. Enjoy the crackle of vibrant colors bursting above, reflecting off the natural beauty of the preserve—a perfect way to commemorate Independence Day with family and friends. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to combine your love for running with the patriotic spirit of the 4th of July. Secure your spot today and join us for an evening of fitness, fun, and fireworks at the Lakewood 5K Trail Run. Let’s celebrate the red, white, and blue with an adventure that’s sure to become a cherished tradition for years to come! Happy (Almost) 4th of July! We’re excited to welcome you to the Lakewood 5K Trail Run—a free community group run to celebrate Independence Day with fresh air, friendship, and fireworks! Here’s everything you need to know for this patriotic evening out on the trails. 🏃‍♂️ RUN DETAILSWhen: Saturday, July 4thWhere: Lakewood Nature PreserveTime: Race starts at 7:30 PM This is a FREE 5K trail run that winds through the shaded trails and scenic routes of Lakewood. All ages and abilities are welcome—it’s a relaxed, family-friendly event with no official timing. Just show up, run, and enjoy the moment. Donations are appreciated to help cover the preserve reservation fee and our evening firework display. We'll have a donation jar at the start/finish or you can Venmo if preferred (details posted at the event). 🍔 POST-RUN COOKOUT & POTLUCKOnce the run wraps up, stick around for our BYO (Bring Your Own) cookout and community potluck! We’ll fire up the grills, pop open the coolers, and settle in for a casual tailgate-style dinner while we wait for the fireworks to begin. Here’s how you can contribute: 🍔 Grill Items: Hot dogs, burgers, veggie burgers, sausages🌽 Sides: Chips, baked beans, pasta salad, potato salad, watermelon slices🧁 Desserts: Cookies, brownies, fruit trays, red-white-and-blue treats🧃 Drinks: Waters, sodas, iced tea, lemonade (please no alcohol at the preserve)🧊 Extras: Ice, coolers, lawn chairs, fold-out tables, outdoor games, bug sprayWe’ll have a few portable grills on-site, but feel free to bring your own if you'd like to cook or warm your food. Tables and picnic blankets are welcome too. 🎇 FIREWORKS AT DUSKAs darkness settles in, we’ll end the evening with a small fireworks show right at the preserve. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy the show as we light up the sky in red, white, and blue! It’s a laid-back, family-friendly vibe you won’t want to miss. 🧨 Final NotesParking is limited—carpooling is encouragedPlease pack out what you pack in (leave no trace)Bring a headlamp or flashlight if staying after darkKids, strollers, and leashed dogs are all welcome!Let’s kick off the 4th of July together—on the trails, around the grill, and under the fireworks. We can’t wait to celebrate with you!