July 5, 2025

Beaufort County Announces Road Closures for Firecracker 5K Run

News Summary

The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office has announced temporary road closures on July 4th for the 4th Annual Firecracker 5K Run in historic downtown Beaufort. The event will impact Bay Street between Newcastle Street and Carteret Street from 7:45 a.m. to 11 a.m. Participants of all ages can join, with awards for top finishers. It’s encouraged to arrive early due to traffic disruptions, and residents are advised to cheer on runners from designated areas.

Beaufort – The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office has announced temporary road closures set to take place on July 4th for the 4th Annual Firecracker 5K Run. Drivers are advised to avoid sections of Bay Street as the event will impact vehicular traffic in historic downtown Beaufort and the Woods Memorial Bridge.

The race will begin and conclude at Freedom Mall, with runners following a certified 5K course that crosses the Woods Memorial Bridge and proceeds down Meridian Road to Youmans Drive. Bay Street will be closed to traffic from Newcastle Street to Carteret Street from 7:45 a.m. until 11 a.m., providing a safe route for participants.

Event Details

On race day, same-day entries will be accepted from 7:00 a.m. to 7:40 a.m., allowing last-minute participants to join the festivities. The race includes several age categories, ranging from under 12 to 70+, ensuring that racers of all ages can compete.

Prizes will be awarded to the top three male and female finishers overall, as well as to the top two male and female participants within each age division. This recognition will be presented at an awards ceremony scheduled to begin at 8:45 a.m..

Participant Guidelines

The event has been designed to be both pet-friendly and stroller-friendly. However, participants are reminded that Flexi-type leashes will not be permitted, and pets must be kept on a standard 4-6 foot lead to ensure safety for both runners and animals alike.

Background Context

The Firecracker 5K Run is a community event that celebrates Independence Day, encouraging both recreational runners and serious athletes to engage in a festive atmosphere while promoting health and fitness. The scenic route takes participants through the beautiful and historical areas of Beaufort, allowing them to enjoy the local sights while competing. The event has become a beloved tradition, drawing both local and out-of-town participants every year.

With the anticipated participation of numerous runners and their supporters, the expected road closures on July 4th are a necessary measure to ensure public safety. Residents and visitors are reminded to plan accordingly for this traffic disruption and are encouraged to support the event by cheering on the runners from designated spectator areas.

For those interested in participating in this year’s run, early arrival is suggested to account for road closures and to complete registration before the starting time. Additional information regarding the event may be available through local community resources.