EAST MOLINE, Ill. (KWQC) - Three of the Quad Cities’ most established running events are gearing up for a busy summer and fall, beginning with the long‑running Firecracker Run on July 4 in East Moline.
Race director Joe Moreno and Jesse Noriega of the Greater Quad Cities Hispanic Chamber of Commerce joined Quad Cities Live to highlight the upcoming race lineup.
The Firecracker Run marks its 44th year and remains one of the region’s most popular Independence Day traditions. The event includes a 10K, 5K, the IMEG Mile and expanded kids’ races sponsored by Urban Balance.
Moreno said the holiday timing is a major part of the event’s appeal, noting that July 4 is one of the biggest race days in the country. Generations of families now participate together, making the run a longstanding community tradition.
Noriega said the event also brings a boost to East Moline’s businesses, with food and merchandise vendors lining the streets and visitors exploring the downtown area before and after the race.
Next on the calendar is the Freedom Run on Thursday, Aug. 13, also in East Moline. The Freedom 5K raises money for local military families in need. Funds collected through race registrations and donations are given to UnityPoint Health’s veterans outreach team, which distributes support directly to families.
Moreno said the race’s mission remains central to its identity, and many participants return each year to support the cause.
Runners can also look ahead to the TBK Bank Quad Cities Marathon, scheduled for Sept. 27, the final weekend of September.
The marathon weekend includes multiple race distances and draws athletes from across the country. Moreno noted that visiting runners often experience the Mississippi River for the first time, and the course’s unique layout — spanning four cities, two states, three bridges and one island — showcases the region’s riverfront in a way few events can.
More information and registration for the marathon can be found at qcmarathon.org.
Noriega said he hopes participants walk away with a deeper appreciation for the Quad Cities community, its diversity and the shared experience of coming together for major events.
The Greater Quad Cities Hispanic Chamber of Commerce sponsored the segment. The nonprofit organization supports business growth through Hispanic and multicultural collaboration.
More information is available at gqchcc.com or by calling 563‑214‑5160.
