The Braden James 5K Rainbow Run/Walk

Event details

The Braden James 5K Rainbow Run is scheduled for October 18, 2025 at the trail in Bluemont Park, 601 N. Manchester St., Arlington, VA. The event is a 5K held rain or shine and offers both an in-person run/walk and a virtual 5K option. Costumes and colorful attire are encouraged. The course is on a trail and has a USATF certified course map. Bicycles and rollerblades are not permitted on the course; walkers, runners, and wheelchair participants are welcome.

Logistics, registration and beneficiary

Registration options listed include an in-person 5K and a virtual 5K. Early-bird totals shown are $44.45 for the in-person 5K and $38.98 for the virtual 5K; later totals shown are $49.33 and $44.15. Fees include processing charges. Parking is on a first-come, first-serve basis in designated areas; participants are asked not to park on grass or block bike trails or residential driveways. Bib pickup is available in person starting one hour before the event; personalized bibs are provided if registered three weeks in advance. Virtual participants may upload times and photos between October 18 and October 26 and may receive mailed bibs.

The event benefits The Braden James Fund, which supports children and families affected by DIPG and other pediatric brain cancers through PLAY, ADVOCATE and CURE. Recent support from the fund included financing a Child Life Specialist at a hospital, installing radio-transparent screens in radiation rooms to reduce sedation, and funding research into mRNA vaccines, the microbiome, CAR-T cell immunotherapy, and trial drug side effects. Awards are listed for top individual and top fundraising team, each receiving a $200 electronic gift card. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

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