The Race Towards Autism Acceptance 5k, 10k, 1M & 1/4 Mile Dash is scheduled for Saturday, April 18, 2026, in Fredericksburg, VA. Hosted at John Lee Pratt Park, this event is dedicated to promoting autism awareness, acceptance, and inclusion within the community. Beyond the competitive and fun run aspects, the race features a high-energy atmosphere with live music stationed along the race path and a comprehensive family festival at the finish line. Events like this provide vital visibility for the autistic community; according to recent CDC data, approximately 1 in 36 children in the United States is identified with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), highlighting the importance of community-wide inclusion and support initiatives.
| Race Category | Distance | Start Time | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Autism Acceptance 10K | 10 km | 7:30 AM EDT | Live Path Music |
| Autism Acceptance 5K | 5 km | 7:30 AM EDT | Live Path Music |
| 1-Miler / 1/4 Mile Dash | Various | Morning (Staggered) | Inclusive / All Abilities |
Participation and Family Festival
The event is centered at John Lee Pratt Park on River Road, with all race distances starting within the park grounds. Following the athletic events, participants and their families can enjoy a massive festival designed for all ages and abilities. The festival lineup includes a bounce house and slide, DJ music, various games, and local vendors. Special features such as Project Lifesaver demonstrations, animal interactions, and food trucks ensure a full day of engagement. The park's existing playground and open spaces further contribute to the family-friendly nature of the day.
Registration and Fees
Registration is currently open with tiered pricing. The 5K is currently $33.63 and the 10K is $49.64 (inclusive of all fees), with rates scheduled to increase on March 31, 2026. The 1-Miler and 1/4 Mile Dash options are available for $22.95 and $17.61, respectively. Virtual options are also provided for those who wish to support the cause from afar, with packages ranging from $12.28 to $33.63. Note that the deadline for virtual registration including a shirt is April 7th. For specific inquiries regarding vendor space or volunteer opportunities, event contact Travis Bishop can be reached via the official race portal.
Apr 18, 2026
Distance — 1mi
Type — Running
07:30
$22.95
Apr 18, 2026
Distance — 0.4km
Type — Running
07:30
$17.61
Apr 18, 2026
Distance — 10km
Type — Running
07:30
$49.64
Apr 18, 2026
Distance — 5km
Type — Running
07:30
$33.63
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for April in Fredericksburg.
Learn more about the host city, Fredericksburg.
Fredericksburg is a city in Northern Virginia. The downtown area has experienced a revival since the 1970s allowing a strong arts community to thrive. Galleries, music venues, and fine dining can all be found in the historic district. While the city has seen massive growth, the downtown area and battlefields have been well preserved due to strong local commitment to historic preservation, providing a unique blend of old and new culture.
Read more launchExplore other exciting events happening in this same region.
location_on Stafford, Virginia, US
calendar_today Apr 11, 2026
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