Endwell Gears Up for Community-Wide Independence Day Celebrations

Endwell is preparing for a vibrant day of community celebration this Independence Day, with events planned for all ages on Thursday, July 4, 2026. Festivities will include a popular road race designed to get families moving, followed by a beloved annual chicken barbecue and a broader celebration at Highland Park.

The day begins early with the 8th Annual "4 on the 4th" Road Race. Presented by Visions Federal Credit Union, this 4-mile race will kick off at 8:00 a.m. EDT from the Visions Federal Credit Union Headquarters on Country Club Road. Participants can enjoy a course that winds through scenic neighborhoods and parks, offering an initial challenge of hills before a fast, flat finish. The event welcomes families, including children and strollers, with free registration available for those aged nine and under. Runners will receive premium merchandise, and an Athlete Village post-race will offer food, beverages, and ice cream. Prizes will be awarded to top finishers in various categories, alongside a special "Best Dressed" award for the most patriotic attire. This year's race will distribute the second medal in a four-year collectible series, leading up to the event's 10th anniversary in 2028. Proceeds from the race will benefit local first responder organizations, including the Endicott Auxiliary Police, Union Volunteer Emergency Squad, and the Endwell Fire Department's O.L. Davis Fire Company.

Later on July 4th, the Endwell Fire/O.L. Davis Fire Company, in collaboration with Brooks BBQ of Oneonta, will host their Annual Drive-Thru Chicken BBQ at Highland Park. Running from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., or until supplies are sold out, the dinners are priced at $15.00 and include half a chicken, baked potato, coleslaw, a cookie, and bottled water. A chicken-only option is also available for $11.00. This barbecue is part of a larger July 4th Extravaganza at Highland Park, which promises additional food vendors, live entertainment, inflatables, face painting, and a balloon artist, all leading up to a fireworks display synchronized with music. These events offer a wonderful opportunity for the Maine-Endwell community to gather and celebrate the holiday together.

Sources:
- runsignup.com
- findarace.com
- trainerday.com
- fourth-july.com

This article is AI-written and human-reviewed.