COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — A new family-friendly event has been announced to kick off central Ohio’s biggest patriotic fireworks celebration.

In a news release, the National Veterans Memorial and Museum (NVMM) and Red, White & BOOM! revealed that the inaugural FREEDOM 5K will take place on Saturday, June 29, 2024, just ahead of the downtown Independence Day celebration on Wednesday, July 3.

“Red, White & BOOM! is excited to partner with the NVMM, bringing these two great Columbus nonprofits together as we extend the downtown holiday celebration,” said Rob O’Boyle, Red, White & BOOM! president. “We are looking forward to spirited strides and sparkling skies!”

Designed for all ages, the run and walk will step off at 10 a.m. and take a winding route along the Scioto River passing through Memorial Grove and finishing on the NVMM Rooftop.

“Thanks to the partnership with Red, White & BOOM! and our collective sponsors, we are kicking off the Independence Day holiday with a FREEDOM 5K celebration to honor our military service members who fought for our freedoms and protect us today,” said Colonel Bill Butler, U.S. Army (Retired), NVMM acting president.

Registration is now open for the inaugural FREEDOM 5K. Register online at the National Veterans Memorial website. FREEDOM 5K registrants will receive a race bib, shirt, finisher medal and a free admission ticket for a future museum visit.

Proceeds will allow the NVMM, a 501 (c) 3 nonprofit museum and memorial, to continue sharing the Veteran experience and history through Veteran stories to inspire museum and online audiences to service in their schools, businesses and communities.

The FREEDOM 5K is presented by the NVMM and Red, White & BOOM!