Sunshine and Sneakers: Delaware’s Weekend of 5K Walks, Giving, and Hope

At least 5 major 5K Walks go off this weekend across Delaware. (Photo Credit: Delaware Online 2024

Perfect fall weather sets the stage for thousands of walkers uniting across Delaware in 5K Walks to celebrate health, friendship, and community impact

WILMINGTON, Del. (Oct. 14, 2025) — With crisp fall air, clear skies, and golden leaves setting the scene, Delawareans are preparing to step into a weekend filled with purpose — joining thousands across the state for a series of 5Ks and charity walks that combine fitness, fun, and compassion.

For Glen Gray of Wilmington, this weekend’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s is personal. Gray has gathered friends and family to honor several loved ones affected by the disease. “This is one of those weekends where a small step can have a huge impact,” Gray said. “You don’t have to be a runner or an athlete — just showing up helps your neighbors, your friends, and your community in ways that truly matter.”

That sense of community connection extends across Delaware, from Smyrna to Lewes. “Every October, we see new faces who start by walking one mile and end up volunteering year-round,” said McKenzie Blithe from the Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition. “It all starts with the first step — that’s how awareness grows, and that’s how lives are changed.”

From the purple Promise Gardens of Wilmington’s Riverfront to the garden paths of Smyrna and the sand trails of Cape Henlopen, more than 5,000 Delaware residents are expected to take part in at least five major events between Saturday and Sunday, October 18–19 — walking for causes that touch nearly every family in the First State.

Wilmington’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s: A Sea of Purple for a Powerful Cause

The highlight of the weekend will be Wilmington’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s, one of Delaware’s most emotional and unifying events, where caregivers, advocates, and families come together to honor loved ones and advance the search for a cure.

Set for Saturday, October 18, at Tubman Garrett Riverfront Park, the event already boasts over 750 registered participants and 127 teams, with fundraising nearing $180,000 toward a $283,000 goal.

The morning begins with registration at 8:00 a.m., followed by the Promise Garden Ceremony at 9:00 a.m., where participants hold colored flowers representing their connection to the disease — blue for those living with Alzheimer’s, yellow for caregivers, purple for those who’ve lost someone, and orange for supporters.

“This is a community that refuses to give up hope,” said a spokesperson for the Alzheimer’s Association Delaware Valley Chapter. “Every step taken, every flower lifted, represents a promise to keep fighting for a world without Alzheimer’s.”

Funds raised will support local caregiver programs, education and outreach services, and Alzheimer’s research. Walkers can still register, volunteer, or donate online.

Communities Across Delaware Join In

While Wilmington’s Riverfront glows purple on Saturday, the spirit of giving will echo throughout Delaware as multiple charity walks and 5Ks bring together families, friends, and co-workers to support causes that make lasting change.

Monster Mile Walk for a Cause – Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition

Saturday, Oct. 18 | 10 a.m.–2 p.m. | Homestead Gardens, Smyrna

The Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition (DBCC) will fill Smyrna’s Homestead Gardens with pink pride and fall fun during its annual Monster Mile Walk for a Cause.

Participants can enjoy a 1-mile stroll through garden paths, live music, food trucks like Love That Plate and Marmy’s Creamery, games, and costume contests for kids, adults, teams, and even pets.

Funds raised provide free mammography screenings, bilingual health navigation, transportation, and survivor outreach to women across Delaware.
Adults: $25; Kids 12 and under: Free with a registered adult.

Delaware Down Syndrome Walk & 5K – Glasgow Park, Newark

Saturday, Oct. 18 | 10 a.m.–2 p.m.

Now in its 22nd year, the Delaware Down Syndrome Walk & 5K will fill Glasgow Park with more than 1,000 participants celebrating inclusion and advocacy.

The event features a timed 5K (10:00 a.m.), an awareness loop (11:30 a.m.), and a Family Fun Day with inflatables, music, caricatures, and food vendors.

Hosted by the Down Syndrome Association of Delaware (DSADE), the event supports nearly 600 families statewide with resources, education, and advocacy programs — with a $100,000 fundraising goal to expand services in 2026.

Easterseals Delaware 5K Run/Walk – Baywood Greens, Long Neck

Sunday, Oct. 19 | Run 3:30 p.m. | Walk 3:40 p.m.

Sunday’s coastal event, the Easterseals Delaware & Maryland’s Eastern Shore 5K Run/Walk, promises a mix of scenic beauty and community pride at Baywood Greens Golf Course in Long Neck.

Participants can enjoy celebrity guest Bob Lougheed (Elvis impersonator), raffle baskets, crafts, fire truck tours, and a post-race boxed supper on the Pro Shop Patio.

Funds support children and adults with disabilities and seniors needing inclusive care, including programs like Camp Fairlee and adult day services.
Pre-registration: $30 through Oct. 18; Race day: $35; Donors giving $100+ receive an “Easterseals Champion” sweatshirt.

Sussex SuperHero 5K – Cape Henlopen State Park, Lewes

Sunday, Oct. 19 | 9:00 a.m. (registration opens at 8:00 a.m.)

Capping off the weekend, the Sussex SuperHero 5K will fill Fort Miles at Cape Henlopen State Park with capes, masks, and heart.

The event supports the Kim & Evans Family Foundation and TidalHealth Nanticoke Patient Assistance Fund, which help families facing medical and financial hardships.

Runners and walkers can join in person or virtually, with awards for top finishers, best costumes, largest teams, and leading fundraisers.

☀️ Perfect Weather for a Purpose

According to the National Weather Service, Delawareans can expect mostly sunny skies and highs in the low 70s statewide — ideal for both fitness and fellowship.

“There’s no better time to take part,” said a Delaware Parks spokesperson. “It’s the kind of weekend where doing good feels good — sunshine, sneakers, and community spirit.”

Editor’s Fact Box

Weekend 5Ks & Charity Walks – Oct. 18–19, 2025

Forecast: Mostly sunny, highs 70–75°F
What to Bring: Sneakers, water, and your favorite team shirt or costume
Why It Matters: Every step taken this weekend supports Delawareans in need — from cancer survivors to caregivers, children with disabilities, and families facing health challenges.

Staff Writer

Delaware LIVE collaborates with a network of professional journalists to cover a diverse range of stories across various fields.  Staff Writers include experienced journalists and young professionals.  If you have questions, please feel free to contact editor@delawarelive.com or our publisher, George D. Rotsch at George@Delawarelive.com