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Friends of the National Arboretum Fall 5K

November 9, 2025 U.S. National Arboretum, Washington D.C.

Events

5K

$40 11/09 8:30AM EST - 11:00AM EST
Increases to $45 after the first 150 people register. (150 spots left)

Join us for a 5k run or walk on the idyllic grounds of the National Arboretum. Strollers and dogs are allowed but dogs must stay on a 6' non-retractable leash.

VIRTUAL 5K

$30
700 spots left.

Can’t make it to the National Arboretum but still want to break out your running shoes? Simply run/walk 5K and submit your virtual results.

Information

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 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. We will have a professional race announcer calling 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.
Thanks to the support of the National Environmental Education Foundation, we are able to offer free registrations for the first 50 veterans who sign up.  There is also a 20% discount for active duty and reserve personnel.  Please send an email to info@fona.org for the coupon codes.

Race Location

3501 New York Ave NE
Washington, DC 20002 US View Location on Map

Pricing

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  • The first 150 tickets are $40
  • The second 150 tickets are $45
  • The third 150 tickets are $50
  • The last 150 tickets are $55
  • Tickets for kids under 13 years old are free
Participants who register before midnight on Friday, October 10th are guaranteed a t-shirt.  After that, t-shirts are available while supplies last.

Schedule

Early Packet Pick-Up (Saturday, November 8th)

2:00 PM to 5:00 PM: Packets will be distributed outside of Arbor House near the R Street entrance (2400 R Street NE, Washington, DC 20002).

**Early packet pickup is not available to registrants who sign up after noon on 11/8/2025. If you register later than that, please plan to pick up your bib on Sunday morning.

Race Day Schedule (Sunday, November 9th)

7:00 AM - 8:00 AM: Packet Pick-Up and Same Day Registration at the race start in front of the Capitol Columns.

8:30 AM: Race Start

Awards will be distributed to the top Overall Male & Female finishers and the top 3 finishers in each age group immediately following the event.

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Virtual Race

Submit Your Virtual Results Here.
1. Click on Submit Virtual Results at the top of the page (inside the green button)
2. Use the Search By Name feature to locate your registration
3. When you see your information appears, click directly on the BIB NUMBER to view/print your virtual bib
4. After you have completed your virtual race, repeat steps 1-3, but this time click on Submit Virtual Results to enter your time.
Results can be submitted any time between Friday, November 7th - Sunday, November 9th at 5:00pm.
If you have any trouble, please let us know at shannon@racinemultisports.com 

FONA & THE ARBORETUM

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Friends of the National Arboretum (FONA) was founded in 1982 as an independent 501(c)(3). FONA serves as the primary private partner of the U.S National Arboretum in Washington, D.C. We preserve and enhance this vibrant public space and facilitate experiential programs that instill a love of plants, nature, and the outdoors in all who visit the Arboretum. We also promote the overarching research and education mission of the Arboretum.
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The Washington Youth Garden (WYG) is a one-acre education garden at the National Arboretum and is a destination for garden-based education and nature play. It was originally established in 1971 to teach local elementary students horticulture and life skills. Today, WYG is a welcoming and inviting place for the DC community to learn and grow together.

Any questions? Contact us today!

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