WEBF Strides for Education 5k and Kids Fun Run

The WEBF Strides for Education 5k and Kids Fun Run 2026 is a hallmark community event held in the heart of Waltham, Massachusetts. Scheduled for Sunday, May 3, 2026, the race is organized by Waltham Education and Beyond, Inc. (WEBF) to raise funds for local educational initiatives. The course offers a unique urban-natural hybrid route, beginning at the historic Moody Street Bridge and continuing along the scenic DCR Riverwalk. The day is divided into a dedicated 1k run for younger students and a primary 5k road race, culminating in a popular post-race celebration at the local landmark, Shopper's Cafe.

The event is designed to be a family-oriented afternoon, moving away from the typical early-morning race start to allow for a festive atmosphere in Waltham’s vibrant downtown district. A notable highlight for younger participants is the partnership with a local creamery, providing a treat for every child registered in the fun run.

Waltham is a historic city in Middlesex County, Massachusetts, located approximately 11 miles west of Boston, with a population of approximately 65,000 residents. Often called "Watch City" due to its industrial history with the Waltham Watch Company, it has evolved into a major center for higher education and high-tech research, housing both Brandeis University and Bentley University. Demographically, Waltham is approximately 61.4% White/European, 14.8% Hispanic/Latino, 13.2% Asian, and 7.1% Black/African American. The city is economically diverse, with a median household income of roughly $103,000 USD.

The local culture is defined by academic excellence and a thriving culinary scene, centered largely around the Moody Street corridor. Known for its wide array of international restaurants and small businesses, Moody Street serves as the city's social heart. The WEBF "Strides for Education" run reflects a community that deeply values its public school system and seeks to bridge the gap between Waltham’s industrial past and its tech-forward future. Residents are known for their high level of civic engagement and a "neighborly" spirit that supports grassroots non-profits like WEBF, ensuring that the city’s growth translates into better opportunities for its students.

Participants can expect a flat, fast course that offers a scenic transition from the bustling downtown shops of Moody Street to the tranquil, wooded paths along the Charles River. The mid-day start ensures a high-energy finish as runners pass through the Embassy parking lot and head toward the post-race gathering. By 12:00 PM on May 3rd, the Moody Street Bridge will be filled with Waltham residents of all backgrounds, united by a shared goal of supporting "Education and Beyond" while enjoying one of the region's most beloved multi-use riverfronts.