(Washington, DC) – On Wednesday, January 1, 2025, Mayor Muriel Bowser and the DC Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) will host the 11th Annual Fresh Start 5K in Anacostia Park. This family-friendly event encourages Washingtonians to start the year on a healthy and positive note.
“We’re carrying a lot of great momentum into 2025, and that starts on January 1,” said Mayor Bowser. “Whether you’re running for fitness, walking with friends, or cheering on loved ones, the Fresh Start 5K is a celebration of community and an energizing way to start the new year.”
The FITDC Fresh Start 5K is free and open to participants of all ages and fitness levels. The event features a Kids Dash at 10:15 am for children 12 and under, a 5K course at 11 am, and a festival with refreshments, music, and vendor booths.
Getting to the Fresh Start 5K:
- Parking: Limited parking is available at Anacostia High School and the Anacostia Metro Station Kiss & Ride garage.
- Walking: Use the skybridge from Anacostia High School to reach the event site.
- Shuttles: Free shuttles will run from the Anacostia Metro Station and Kiss & Ride garage, dropping you off close to the event. ADA accommodations are available if needed.
- Pre-Race Shuttles: 8:30 a.m. - 10 am
- Post-Race Shuttles: 12 pm - 1:30 pm
Participants can register online at fitdcfreshstart5k2025.splashthat.com to secure a commemorative T-shirt, timed runner’s bib, and medal (while supplies last). Same-day registration begins at 9 am on Wednesday, January 1 at Anacostia Park.
WHEN:
Wednesday, January 1, 2025
Mayor Muriel Bowser will kick off the 5K at 11 am
Same-day registration opens at 9 am and the Kids Dash begins at 10:15 am
WHO:
Mayor Muriel Bowser
Thennie Freeman, Director, Department of Parks and Recreation
Gregg Lambert, Director of Sales and Service, Capital Markets, Aetna
Poet Taylor, Co-Emcee/Race Announcer
Marc Goldman, Co-Emcee/Race Announcer
DJ Heat, Performer
DJ Gemini, Performer
DCVybe, Performer
WHERE:
Anacostia Recreation Center
1800 Anacostia Drive SE
*Closest Metro Station: Anacostia*
*Closest Bikeshare: Anacostia Metro*
Press interested in attending the event are asked to RSVP to [email protected].
Mayor Bowser X: @MayorBowser
Mayor Bowser Instagram: @Mayor_Bowser
Mayor Bowser Facebook: facebook.com/MayorMurielBowser
Mayor Bowser YouTube: https://www.bit.ly/eomvideos