Get ready for an unforgettable Independence Day celebration, Central PA 4th Fest is back and bigger than ever! Known as Central Pennsylvania’s best community celebration, this patriotic tradition is created by the community, for the community, and brings together thousands of residents and visitors for a full day of festivities, fun, and fireworks.

A Day Packed with Patriotic Fun

The 2025 4th Fest promises something for everyone, kicking off bright and early and culminating in one of the top-rated fireworks shows in the entire country.

Firecracker 4K – A Festive Start

Start your day off with a burst of energy at the 21st Annual Firecracker 4K Run/Walk! Whether you’re a serious runner or just looking to stroll with family and friends, this festive race winds through the beautiful Penn State main campus, beginning near Beaver Stadium. Last year, nearly 800 participants donned their red, white, and blue—this year, it could be you!

Register now and show off your patriotic pride.

Firecracker Car Show – Classics & Chrome

Celebrate America’s birthday in style at the second annual Firecracker Car Show from 12–5 p.m. at the Jordan East Lot. From vintage models to muscle cars, this showcase honors American automotive history. The first 100 registrants receive a dash plaque, and winners will be awarded at 5 p.m. Rain or shine, this show will rev your engines!

Register your car today.

The Parade – Honoring Our Hometown Heroes

Wave your flags high at the Central PA 4th Fest Independence Day Parade, beginning at 11 a.m. along North Burrowes Road, East College Avenue, and Shortlidge Road. This year’s theme honors the heroes of the Centre Region, and community groups, businesses, and performers are all invited to participate.

Sign up your group and be part of the tradition.

Food, Music, and Family Fun

Stick around throughout the day for a variety of family-friendly events near Beaver Stadium:

• Free hot dogs
• A giant American cake
• Live entertainment, BMX stunt shows, and more!

With plenty of vendors, activities, and smiling faces, this is a true celebration of what makes our region—and our country—great.

The Fireworks – A Grand Finale Like No Other

End your Independence Day with a spectacular fireworks display, launching at 9:45 p.m. Rated among the top five fireworks shows in the nation, this professionally choreographed performance is a sensory masterpiece, simulcast on 99.5/107.5 WBUS. Thanks to a collaboration between dedicated volunteers and Starfire Corporation, each year’s show is set to a stirring soundtrack of patriotic and pop favorites.

The cost? Around $125,000–$140,000—but the memories? Priceless.

Mark Your Calendar – July 4, 2025

Join us in the heart of Happy Valley for a full day of celebration. Whether you're running in the Firecracker 4K, admiring chrome at the car show, waving a flag in the parade, or watching the night sky light up with fireworks—you’ll be part of something special.

Let’s make this 4th of July unforgettable.

See you at the 2025 Central PA 4th Fest!