Strides for Africa

Strides for Africa Run/Walk – August 15, 2026 | McPike Park, Downtown Madison
Join us for the Strides for Africa Run/Walk, a family-friendly event open to all ages and held in-person at McPike Park as part of the kickoff to Africa Fest 2026. Participants can choose from a 5K run, a 5K walk, a 1.5-mile fun walk, a kids' fun run, or take part in a unique team relay that reflects the challenges of collecting water in rural Africa.
Proceeds support Strides for Africa’s clean water, education, and health projects in rural African communities. These initiatives contribute to improved access to water, support for youth education, and measurable community health outcomes. Locally, the event also offers participants a way to engage as global citizens through purposeful action.
This year, instead of t-shirts, each participant will receive a handmade Kenyan paper bead bracelet, a handmade Rwanda drink coaster supporting environmental sustainability and women artisans who are working to help build community-led education infrastructure for their children. We will also have the option for participants to choose a pack of 3 African notecards with envelopes. In addition, participants can show their race bib to redeem a free drink at the Africa Fest "Beer Tent" following the event.