Red Shoe 5k Run/Walk & Kids Fun Run Benefiting Ronald McDonald House
About this race
Sunday October 4, 2026
More than a race. A reason to show up.
Lace up and be part of a powerful day that brings the community together for families when it matters most.
Red Shoe 5k is the signature annual fundraiser for Ronald McDonald House Washington DC — where every step helps families stay close to care, stay together and stay supported.
What to expect
A high-energy, feel-good event filled with movement, community and purpose:
- A scenic course at National Harbor
- Runners, walkers, families and teams from across the region
- On-site energy, music and community celebration
- The Kids Fun Run — a joyful highlight where young runners dash in their signature red capes
Make your impact go further
This year, it’s easier than ever to do more.
When you register, you can also:
- Start a personal fundraising page in minutes
- Invite friends and family to support your run or walk
- Join or create a team and make an even bigger impact together
Every share, every donation and every step helps support families with children receiving medical care.
Why it matters
Ronald McDonald House Washington DC provides essential services that remove barriers, strengthen families and promote healing.
Families rely on the House for:
- Comfortable lodging near the hospital
- Warm meals and everyday essentials
- Family-centered spaces and support
- A place to stay together during treatment
- Your participation helps make all of this possible.
Show up your way
Walk. Run. Fundraise. Bring a team.
However you show up, you are helping families when they need it most.
Join us
Be part of something meaningful.
Be part of the community.
Be part of the impact.
Register today.
Packet pick-up and race day info >
Join fellow runners on September 24, 2023 for the Red Shoe 5k Run/Walk & Kids Fun Run Benefiting Ronald McDonald House. It's a fantastic 5K featuring a flat and fast course in Forest Heights.
Pick your distance
Running
Virtual Red Shoe 5k
Run or walk, wherever you are any time between Sunday, September 24 and Saturday October 7! Take your favorite neighborhood path or try a new one at a local park. Wherever you raise your feet, you'll be raising hope for families with a hospitalized child - thank you! Race packets will be mailed at least one week prior to the start of the virtual event. Those who register after September 25 will receive their shirt after the race. Make sure to submit your time for a chance to qualify for prizes!
Red Shoe 5k
The race features a varied course with average terrain that includes some gravel surfaces and slight incline. The racecourse takes runners and walkers along the beautiful waterfront of the Potomac River and across the Woodrow Wilson bridge for stunning scenic views. We welcome runners and walkers of all abilities and ages.
Weather Overview
These values reflect historical conditions on the race dates in Forest Heights in 2023, from Open-Meteo archive data.
About Forest Heights
Red Shoe 5k Run/Walk & Kids Fun Run Benefiting Ronald McDonald House takes place in Forest Heights, Maryland, United States. The local timezone is America/New_York.
Reviews
Done this event?
If you've participated in this event, share your experience with other runners
🏃 Plan Your Next Race in Forest Heights
Find upcoming events by distance:
- Forest Heights 5K Races Best Forest Heights routes for beginners and speed work.
- Forest Heights Running Calendar 2026 See all upcoming race dates.
Race information has been sourced from the event's official website and other publicly available resources. For the most up-to-date details, please refer to the official website directly. If you notice any incorrect or missing information, don't hesitate to reach out to us by email.