Friends of the National Arboretum Fall 5K

Race Overview: A race coming up on 11/07/2025 in Washington, DC. Get all the nerdy details below or follow the sign up links to secure your spot today!
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Race data last checked: 2025-11-26

Race Overview:

Enjoy autumn at the U.S. National Arboretum during FONA's Fall 5K. This run or walk will take you past garden collections brightly colored with fall foliage, over tree-lined rolling hills, and along streams winding their way to the Anacostia River. 

This event will proceed regardless of whether the government shutdown continues. FONA is very grateful to the U.S. Department of Agriculture for allowing FONA to hold this event during the shutdown. Only registered race participants and volunteers will be allowed on the Arboretum grounds for this year’s Fall 5K. No spectators are allowed. If you would like to cheer someone on, you must register as a participant or volunteer.

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 there will be music before and after the event to get you in the groove. 

Strollers and dogs are welcome, but dogs must stay on a 6' non-retractable leash.

A 20% discount is available to all furloughed federal employees, veterans, active duty, and reserve military members (email info@fona.org for the discount code). All FONA members can also receive a 20% discount as part of their member benefits (if you're already a member, check the latest member newsletter for the discount code). Please make a donation of any amount to become a FONA member.

Registration Pricing:

  • The first 150 tickets are $45
  • The second 150 tickets are $50
  • The third 150 tickets are $55
  • The last 150 tickets are $60
  • Tickets for kids under 13 years old are free
  • Registration closes 11/6 at 10am. There is no race day registration.

Participants who register before midnight on Friday, October 10th are guaranteed a t-shirt. After that, t-shirts are available while supplies last.

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