The Firecracker 4 is easily the premier 4th of July race in the Milwaukee area. Lots of runners, and lots of fast runners. Plus, being in SE WI in July, you can bank on the weather not cooperating (aka it's gonna be warm).

You'll have two options for packet pickup. Grab it at Performance Running Outfitters the day or two before the race, or grab it race morning at the park. The line always looks long at the park, so again this year I opted for pickup at the store.

Parking for the race is dictated tremendously by when you arrive. This year, an additional road was blocked for a new parade route (construction) reducing the street parking spots. If you arrive early enough, you can park in a lot right by the start finish line (which is what I did). The streets do have parking, just be sure to not park along the course.

At the beginning of the race, it's super crowded. Obviously, this factors into race strategy. Either hang back, or get out in front of others around you. Neither is great, but those are your options. Overall, the first mile is slightly downhill, and the second mostly flat. Miles three and four are where the hills (and pain) come into play. The finish is a long stretch on grass in the park.

There is one aid station just a smidge after the second mile marker, but you can pick up water (and run through sprinklers) from spectators watching the race. The entire route goes through neighborhoods, so you'll have plenty of people out supporting.

Post race there is food, water, and beer. Basically all the essentials.

Personally, I liked the race shirt in 2019 better than years past. Red with the race logo. Typically the race shirt is soft; great for wearing but probably not something you would run in.

Overall, this is another top notch event put on by the Badgerland Striders. If it wasn't, then next year's race wouldn't be the 42nd year of the race. Also, this is an affordable option as well; so don't pass it up if you're in the area!