New Firecracker 5K and annual Stars ‘N Stripes Fest bring summer celebrations to Cary

Posted June 05, 2026 6:50 pm

By Courtney Baker, Cary Park District

The Cary Park District invites the community to celebrate summer. community, and Independence Day weekend with two festive events: the new Firecracker 5K on Friday, June 26, and Stars ‘N Stripes Fest on Saturday, June 27.

The Firecracker 5K will take place Friday, June 26, beginning at Sunburst Bay Aquatic Center, 1201 First St. Race check-in will be held from 6 to 6:45 p.m., with the race starting at 7 p.m.

After the race, participants can enjoy an after party at Sunburst Bay Aquatic Center from 8 to 10 p.m. Firecracker 5K participants receive a T-shirt, free admission to the after-party, and guests of participants can enjoy half-off admission if they do not have a membership.

The deadline to register for the Firecracker 5K is Monday, June 15. The fee is $45 or $68 for nonresidents. For registration information, visit carypark.com.

Stars ‘N Stripes Fest will be held Saturday, June 27, from 4 to 10 p.m. at Cary-Grove Park, 3 Oaks Road. One of Cary’s favorite summer traditions, the event brings thousands of residents and visitors together for an evening of live entertainment, food, family activities, and fireworks.

Admission to the event is free, with parking available for $20 per vehicle.

This year’s Stars ‘N Stripes Fest will feature live music by Hello Weekend, food trucks, beer, wine and hard seltzer for purchase, bounce houses, an obstacle course, festive photo opportunities, and a fireworks show to close out the night.

In honor of America’s 250th anniversary, the event will also include special patriotic touches, including Stars ‘N Stripes Fest shirts available for purchase while supplies last.

“Stars ‘N Stripes Fest is a special event for our community because it brings people together to celebrate the start of Independence Day weekend right here in Cary,” said Katie Tarosas, facility and program manager. “With the addition of the Firecracker 5K, we’re excited to offer another fun way for families, friends, and neighbors to take part in the celebration.”

Cary Park District's annual Stars 'N Stripes Fest on June 27 will feature Hello Weekend, food trucks, bounce houses, and fireworks. Courtesy of Cary Park District

Sponsorship opportunities are still available for businesses and organizations interested in supporting Stars ‘N Stripes Fest. Sponsors receive community exposure through event signage, online recognition, social media mentions, and other benefits depending on the sponsorship level selected.

Businesses interested in sponsoring Stars ‘N Stripes Fest can contact Courtney Baker at cbaker@carypark.com.

For more information about Stars ‘N Stripes Fest and the Firecracker 5K, visit bit.ly/4e0JOuR