Esplanade 5K Run & Walk

Event Details

The Esplanade Association (EA) invites you to enjoy a new season and new pace to support the same great cause! The annual 5K is scheduled for Sunday, October 25, 2026, with hopes that a free parking day in the City of Boston amid fall foliage will be a great opportunity to celebrate fitness and community in the park before Halloween. Building on the successful history of our beloved 5K Race, we are also introducing a dedicated Walk in succession to the annual Run. This staggered option will allow more individuals (including dog walkers, strollers and rollers!) to participate at their own pace and comfort level, while keeping pathway safety in mind.

Location: Charles River Esplanade, Fiedler Field, Boston, MA 02114

Event Times:

• 5K Run begins at 9:00 AM EDT (rain or shine!) with Awards immediately following.
• 5K Walk begins at 11:00 AM EDT.
• Vendor Fair begins at 8:00 AM EDT.

Registration and Tickets

Pre-Event Registration (closes Saturday, October 25th at 12:00 PM EST):

• Run Registration: $35.00. Includes a chipped bib for timing and race results, and a chance at prizes.
• Walk Registration: $30.00. Includes a bib (not chipped for time).

Day-of Registration:

• $45.00 (for both Run & Walk). Only available if not sold out.

Registration Includes

• 5K Run ONLY: One custom bib with timing chip and official race results, a chance at prizes for top runners.
• 5K Walk ONLY: One custom bib (no timing chip).
• ALL Registrants: Virtual Prize Bag (shared post event via email), Pre-Event Packet with information, and one 18 oz customized eco-friendly commemorative cup.

Bib Pickup

• Early Bib Pickup:
• Thursday, October 22nd: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM at Esplanade Association office (575 Boylston Street, Suite 4R, Boston, MA 02116).
• Friday, October 23rd: 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM at Marathon Sports in Back Bay (671 Boylston Street, Boston, MA 02116).
• Day Of Pickup: Available starting at 8:00 AM at the Registration Tent.

Policies

• Dogs and Strollers: Permitted during the 5K Walk only. Not allowed in the 5K Run.
• Refunds: Registrations are non-refundable, but transferable.
• T-shirts: Not offered to reduce textile waste; a commemorative cup is provided instead.

This event supports EA's work to revitalize the Esplanade's greenspace, improve infrastructure, and build community through free programs.