(Washington, DC) – Today, Mayor Muriel Bowser and the DC Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) are inviting residents to kick off the New Year strong and “run through the tape” by registering for the 12th Annual FITDC Fresh Start 5K. This New Year’s Day tradition will take place on Thursday, January 1, 2026 and begin at 11:00 am at Freedom Plaza in Downtown DC.
“Over the years, the Fresh Start 5K has become a tradition that thousands of Washingtonians look forward to – it’s a way to start the New Year with purpose and surrounded by friends and community,” said Mayor Bowser. “This is a tradition that started when I was Mayor-elect, and in 2026 it will symbolize my commitment to DC residents to run through the tape and finish strong.”
The FITDC Fresh Start 5K is a free, family-friendly event open to people of all ages and abilities. Sponsored by Aetna, the event will also include a Kids Dash and a pre-race festival with refreshments, music, and vendor booths.
“The beauty is in the beginning and the Fresh Start 5K reminds us that every January 1st we get a chance to hit reset and start again,” said DPR Director Thennie Freeman. “It’s about fitness, family, community, fun and showing up for ourselves. I can’t wait to start the year with you at the starting line.”
Residents can register at fitdcfreshstart5k2026.splashthat.com to receive a commemorative T-shirt, timed runner’s bib, and medal (while supplies last). On January 1, same-day registration will begin at 9:00 am, with the Kids Dash starting at 10:15 am and the 5K starting at 11:00 am
To save time on race day, participants can take advantage of early packet pick-up on the following days to grab their shirts and bibs in advance:
• Thursday, December 18, 11:00 am to 3:00 pm and 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm
• Friday, December 19, 11:00 am to 3:00 pm and 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm
• Saturday, December 27, 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm
Packet Pick-Up Locations:
• King-Greenleaf Recreation Center (201 N Street SW)
• Deanwood Community Center (1350 49th Street NE)
• Takoma Community Center (300 Van Buren Street NW)
• Turkey Thicket Recreation Center (1100 Michigan Avenue NE)
Volunteer opportunities are also available to support the 2026 FITDC Fresh Start 5K. Register here to help with race-day activities, registration, refreshments, and more.
Since taking office in 2015, Mayor Bowser has transformed DC’s parks and recreation system by making recreation centers free, launching the popular Late Night Hype event series, and expanding programming across the District. In addition, more than $800 million has been invested in recreation centers, pools, and playground renovations. Earlier this year, DC was ranked the #1 park system in the United States for the fifth year in a row.
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