Washington, DC

(Washington, DC) – In celebration of Women’s History Month and International Women’s Day, Mayor Muriel Bowser is inviting residents to register for the 7th Annual FITDC HerStory 5K, which will take place on Saturday, March 8, at Freedom Plaza in Downtown DC. The event will begin at 8 am, with the Kids Dash at 9:15 am, and the 2025 HerStory 5K at 10 am. Registration is now open at HerStory5k.com. 
     
The HerStory 5K is a family-friendly event open to all ages and abilities, hosted by the DC Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR), in partnership with the Mayor’s Office on Women’s Policy and Initiatives (MOWPI), and sponsored by AETNA. This year’s exhibitors and entertainment will embody the 2025 Women’s History Month theme, “Moving Forward Together! Women Educating & Inspiring Generations.” These pre-and post-race activations aim to honor the process of increasing women’s access to information as a means for promoting well-being. 
 
Race day will include the return of the HerStory Kids Dash for children 12 and under. Kids Dash participants will receive a special t-shirt before taking part in a modified "race" on the 5K route. All Kids Dash giveaways will be distributed on race day, and Kids Dash participants must be accompanied by an adult. Families should arrive early and be ready to run at 9:15 am.  
  
Other activations include pre-race warm up sessions and interactive exhibits highlighting women’s history. A post-race festival at Freedom Plaza will feature live music, wellness activities, giveaways, and vendors from local women-owned businesses. 
  
To help participants prepare for race day, FITDC and Pacers Running have produced a training program to help runners and walkers of all levels. The easy-to-follow training program includes group runs, walks, and solo workout plans. Learn more here.  
  
Participants are encouraged to pick up their race packets and t-shirts in advance to avoid lines on race day. Pickup will be available on a first-come, first-served basis on Friday, February 28 from 10 am to 7 pm and Monday, March 3 from 10 am to 4 pm at the following locations: 

• Ward 4 – Takoma Aquatic Center (300 Van Buren Street NW)
• Ward 5 – Turkey Thicket Recreation Center (1100 Michigan Avenue NE)
• Ward 6 – King Greenleaf Recreation Center (201 N Street SW) 
• Ward 7 – Deanwood Recreation Center (1350 49th Street NE) 

Before, during, and after the race, participants are encouraged to share pictures and selfies on social media by tagging @myfitdc and using the hashtags #HerStory5K, #WomenWhoLead, and #BeDowntown.  
  
Registration is open now. Visit HerStory5K.com to sign up and learn more 
     
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