PORT ST. LUCIE \u2014 Residents can start their Independence Day celebration on the move as the City of Port St. Lucie hosts its inaugural Freedomfest 5K Walk\/Run on Saturday, July 4.<\/p>\n
Participants are encouraged to lace up their running shoes, dress in red, white and blue and take part in the patriotic community event, which begins at 7 a.m. at the front plaza of the MIDFLORIDA Event Center, 9221 SE Event Center Place.<\/p>\n
Race-day registration opens at 5:45 a.m. Free parking will be available on site until 6:45 a.m. After that time, participants will be directed to park at the nearby Publix Plaza. A pre-race warmup is scheduled for 6:40 a.m.<\/p>\n
Following the race, runners and spectators can enjoy post-race festivities beginning at 8 a.m., along with an awards ceremony recognizing the top three overall male and female finishers. Age-group awards also will be presented.<\/p>\n
Registration fees are $35 through June 14, $40 from June 15-20, $45 from June 21 through July 3 and $60 on race day. All participants must register online and complete a waiver during sign-up.<\/p>\n
Race bibs and event T-shirts may be picked up from 3:30 to 6 p.m. on Friday, July 3, at Fleet Feet, 11586 SW Village Parkway. Race-day pickup also will be available at the event site.<\/p>\n