Friends of the National Arboretum Flowering 5K

Race Info

Join us for a 5k run or walk on the idyllic grounds of the National Arboretum. Strollers and dogs are allowed but dogs must stay on a 6' non-retractable leash.

VIRTUAL 5K

Can’t make it to the National Arboretum but still want to break out your running shoes? Simply run/walk 5K and submit your virtual results.

Description

Enjoy spring at the U.S. National Arboretum during FONA's Flowering 5K. This run or walk will take you past garden collections brightly colored with spring flowers, over tree-lined rolling hills, and along streams winding their way to the Anacostia River. Enjoy cherry blossoms, magnolias, and so much more! This race is not only scenic but also safe and secure. All roads are closed to cars during this race so you can safely enjoy running or walking through this 451-acre urban green space. A professional race announcer will call out runners as they cross the finish line and music will get you in the groove before and after the event. A professional photographer will also take photos of racers along the course (photos will be available 1 week after the race). Strollers and dogs are welcome, but dogs must stay on a 6' non-retractable leash.

Free registration is available for the first 50 veterans who sign up, made possible by support from the National Environmental Education Foundation. Active and reserve military members can also receive 20% off their registration. All FONA members can also receive a 20% discount as part of their member benefits. Please make a donation of any amount to become a FONA member. Email [email protected] for these coupon codes.

Early packet pickup is only available to registrants who sign up before noon on March 21, 2026. If you register after this date and time, please plan to pick up your bib the morning of the race.

Registration Pricing

• The first 150 entries are $40
• The second 150 entries are $45
• The third 150 entries are $50
• All remaining entries are $55
• Entries for kids under 13 years old are free

T-shirts are included with adult registration and are available while supplies last. Youth t-shirts can be purchased when registering.

Schedule

Early Packet Pickup (Saturday, March 21st)

2:00 PM - 4:30 PM: Packets will be distributed outside of Arbor House near the Arboretum's R Street entrance (2400 R Street NE, Washington, DC 20002).

Race Day Schedule (Sunday, March 22nd)

7:00 AM - 8:00 AM: Packet pickup at the race start in front of the Arboretum's Capitol Columns.

8:30 AM: Race Start

Awards

Awards will be distributed immediately following the event. Awards will be given to the top overall male, female, and non-binary racers. They will also be given to the top 3 male and female racers in each age category. Age categories are as follows: 15 & under, 16-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70+

Virtual Race Information

Submit Your Virtual Results Here. 1. Click on Submit Virtual Results at the top of the page (inside the green button) 2. Use the Search By Name feature to locate your registration 3. When you see your information appears, click directly on the BIB NUMBER to view/print your virtual bib 4. After you have completed your virtual race, repeat steps 1-3, but this time click on Submit Virtual Results to enter your time. Results can be submitted any time between Friday, March 20th to Sunday, March 22nd at 5:00pm.