Explore the cozier side of winter during Fireworks and Flannels
Two-day event features the Light the Night Flannel 5K, live music and many other cool activities
WATERFORD, MI – Jan. 27, 2026 – The return of Fireworks and Flannels and the Light the Night Flannel 5K are sure to turn chilly temperatures into warm memories with frosty fun like horse-drawn wagon rides, a petting farm, pony rides, winter games, sledding, fat tire biking, crafts and an illuminated walking path as well as live music, food trucks and a beer tent. This two-day community celebration takes place on Friday, Feb. 13 and Saturday, Feb. 14 at Waterford Oaks County Park in Waterford.
“Fireworks and Flannels proves that winter doesn’t have to be boring. We’re bringing all the warm vibes, so grab your favorite flannel and bring your sense of adventure to Waterford Oaks,” OCP Chief of Recreation Programs and Services Brandy K. Boyd said.
Light the Night Flannel 5K
The event kicks off at 5 p.m. Feb. 13 with the opening of the Illuminated Trail followed by the start of the Light the Night Flannel 5K where participants are welcome to run or walk while wearing their comfiest, coziest flannel.
“This is an out-and-back race through the park on paved and unpaved surfaces, providing the perfect opportunity to connect with nature and enjoy the beautiful scenery at Waterford Oaks,” Recreation Program Coordinator and Race Organizer Riley Hayes said. “After the race, enjoy a cozy bonfire, hot cocoa and a quiet night under the stars.”
Cost is $28/person. Each race participant will receive a beanie, medal and drink ticket for the Feb. 14 beer tent, part of the Cozy Night Out event. Register by scanning the QR code on the Fireworks and Flannels Flyer posted at OaklandCountyParks.com.
Cozy Night Out
General event activities are free, with hot food and drinks available for purchase from local food trucks and in the beer tent. Join the fun from 4-8 p.m. Feb. 14.
New this year is the Fat Tire BMX Experience. Trek Bicycle Pontiac will bring a demonstration fleet of fat tire bikes to the BMX track so participants can take a spin on a specially marked snow-covered course.
A highlight of Fireworks and Flannels will be the fireworks. They will light up the wintry skies in spectacular fashion beginning at 8 p.m. Bring a camping chair and blanket to watch fireworks outdoors or enjoy the view from the comfort of your heated vehicle.
Illuminated Walking Path
After Fireworks and Flannels comes to a close, continue to enjoy the Illuminated Walking Path. The path will be open from 5:30-8:30 p.m. Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays Feb. 20-22 and Feb. 27-March 1.
Additional Information
Fireworks and Flannels is hosted by Oakland County Parks with support from race sponsor McLaren Oakland and Cozy Night Out sponsor Trek Bicycle Pontiac. Because Fireworks and Flannels takes place during possible inclement weather, organizers encourage participants to dress warmly and prepare appropriately. In addition, with the size of Waterford Oaks County Park and the layout of activities, the use of strollers and walking-assisted devices is advised, as needed.
While leashed dogs are permitted during the Light the Night Flannel 5K, no animals except service animals will be allowed during the Cozy Night Out event due to the live animals on site for the petting farm and pony rides as well as the fireworks.
Waterford Oaks County Park is located at 1702 Scott Lake Road in Waterford. For the full schedule of events and the latest updates, visit OaklandCountyParks.com and follow OCP at Facebook/OCParks.
For more information about Oakland County Parks, visit OaklandCountyParks.com.