Celebrate Independence Day with These 4th of July 5Ks in the Bay Area (2025 Edition)
Fireworks, freedom, and 5Ks
At Running Fit Lab, we don't just run races — we make them experiences.
There’s something special about 4th of July runs in the Bay Area: cool mornings, neighborhood pride, and the smell of someone already firing up their grill by the time you hit mile 3. And let’s be honest — nothing beats a sweaty team selfie followed by strong coffee and pancakes.
Here are our favorite 4th of July races for 2025 — complete with local parking tips, food recs, and what makes each event special to the Running Fit Lab crew.
1. Run San Ramon 5K/10K & Fastest Mile
📍 San Ramon
🕗 July 4, 2025 – Fastest Mile: 7:30 AM | 5K/10K: 8:00 AM
🔗 Register here
This one’s close to home for many of our runners. It’s flat, friendly, and fast — great for beginners and PR chasers. Plus, they offer a “Fastest Mile” option which is a fun team challenge.
Local RFL Tips:
Park at the San Ramon Community Center early — it fills fast.
Post-run fuel: We love grabbing coffee at Philz at the City Center or heading to Sideboard Danville for breakfast if you want something a little extra.
2. 🧨 Stars & Stripes 5K – Concord
📍 Todos Santos Plaza, Concord | 🕗 July 4, 2025 – 8:15 AM
🔗 Register here
This race is newer (last year was the first!), which means a smaller crowd and that small-race charm we love. Great downtown loop, patriotic fun, and it's perfect for first-timers.
Local RFL Tips:
Park near the plaza — arrive early, it fills fast.
Hit the $5 pancake breakfast hosted by Concord-Diablo Rotary (7:30–11:00 AM)
Coffee? Peet’s or Starbucks are both within a short walk
Stay for the Concord Independence Day Parade at 10:00 AM!
3. Firecracker 5K – Pleasant Hill
📍 Downtown Pleasant Hill | 🕗 July 4, 2025 – 7:45 AM
🔗 Register here
This race is part of Pleasant Hill's full day of 4th of July celebrations, including a parade and fireworks. It's a family-friendly event with a community feel.
Local RFL Tips:
Arrive early to find parking downtown; parking garage and street parking is available but fills up quickly.
Stay for the Parade: Starts at 9:30 AM and rolls straight through downtown with music, floats, and local organizations.
Don’t Miss the Party in the Park: From 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM at Pleasant Hill Park — complete with live music, food trucks, BBQ from Back 40, kids’ games, inflatables, and the famous watermelon eating contest at 12:15 PM.
4. Independence Day Dash 5K – Livermore
📍 Sycamore Grove Park, Livermore | 🕗 July 4, 2025 – 8:00 AM
🔗 Register here
This race offers a scenic route through Sycamore Grove Park and is perfect for both seasoned runners and those looking to enjoy a leisurely jog.
Local RFL Tips:
Park at Independence Park (2798 Holmes Street) and walk to the entrance.
After the race, check out the Fourth of July Celebration at Livermore Municipal Airport from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM, featuring aircraft displays, food trucks, live music, and a kids' zone.
Why We Love Holiday Races at Running Fit Lab
They're low-pressure and festive — you can push or chill.
You get in movement before the BBQ and fireworks.
You run with a community, not just your earbuds.
You walk away stronger, prouder, and feeling damn good about your day.
As Coach Francisco always says:
“You’re not just running for the result. You’re running to feel alive.”
Want to Train for a 4th of July Race With Us?
We’ve got:
Beginner-friendly classes
Private coaching
Strength and mobility sessions
Support for your first 5K or next PR