Black Family 5K 2024

Every year, the Black Family 5K is a powerful way for us to gather our loved ones, to connect beyond our trauma, to shake off that holiday ‘itis, and to celebrate the goodness that surrounds us.

Here's how you and your family can participate:

1. HOW DOES THE BLACK FAMILY 5K (BF5K) WORK? It's simple! You and your family take a walk together during Thanksgiving weekend. You can amp up your walk and make it hype by ordering the official t-shirts and swag, but it's not required.
2. HOW CAN I REGISTER MY FAMILY FOR THE BLACK FAMILY 5K? Registration is not required this year. Go to www.BlackFamily5k.com and click DOWNLOAD THE TOOLKIT. After downloading the toolkit, register here to ensure you’re on our text list. We’ll text you on Thanksgiving weekend to confirm that you and your family completed your 5K.
3. WHEN DOES THE BLACK FAMILY 5K HAPPEN? Thanksgiving weekend, November 28—30! Most people plan their walks directly after the meal on Thursday; some like to plan their walks for Friday as an alternative to the Black Friday madness. Pick the day that works best for your family. Families will use #GirlTREK all weekend to check-in.

TIP: If you are traveling for the holiday, consider hosting a couple of walks, like one at your favorite cousin’s house on Thursday and another around your neighborhood on Sunday afternoon. This is the perfect way to introduce the power of walking to your entire family and establish a new tradition. 

4. WHERE DOES THE BLACK FAMILY 5K HAPPEN? Wherever you are! These are neighborhood walks. Some folks circle the block, and some like heading to a local park. There is no central gathering place. These are family-organized and led walks.

TIP: Scout the route (do a trial trek) before you hit the pavement or the park with your family. Since this is an all-ages event, make sure your niece with the newborn can use her stroller AND your great-aunt can navigate the trail/track or sidewalk with ease. 

TIP: If your family is super-sized, check with your city to see if a permit is needed. 

5. WHO CAN PARTICIPATE IN THE BLACK FAMILY 5K? Anyone! This is a family affair and all of our families look different and live in a variety of places. You can invite whoever you would like. You can organize virtually or in person. Family is what you make it! 

TIP: Every family member has a different fitness level, so keep that in mind when planning your event. Remember: No sister or brother or Madea or Uncle Joe should be left behind. 

TIP: Be sure to have some water available. Keep your family hydrated!

6. DOES IT COST? No. All you have to do is lace up, walk, and enjoy. You can buy official race shirts and gear, but this is more about the spirit of the walk than the swag. 
7. BUT I WANT GEAR! WHERE DO I GET IT? You can order the shirts at GirlTREK.org/Shop. Order by November 15th to receive them in time for Thanksgiving Day.  

TIP: If you're unable to purchase BF5K gear and have t-shirts from your last family reunion, you can put them on to show your neighborhood who rules. No matter what you wear, it’s your tribe’s time to shine! And the family photos are sure to spark joyful memories for generations to come. 

8. HOW DO I GET OTHERS INVOLVED? Tell everyone you know to host a Black Family 5K. Use #GirlTREK to post on your social media and let folks know you're in. It's going to be an epic and historic event! 
9. WHERE CAN I GET ALL THIS INFO IN ONE PLACE? Head over to BlackFamily5K.com today! You can sign up, get your race kits, and more!

WAYS TO MAKE YOUR BLACK FAMILY 5K MEMORABLE!

1. Capture LOTS of photos: Grandparents and grandchildren. The Sisters. The Brothers. The Cousins. The Aunties. Unc and ‘nem. The newlyweds. The couple that's been together forever. Both candid shots and posed pics are perfect. Share them on social media with #GirlTREK.
2. Have an old-fashioned foot race with a sweet reward at the end: The first one to complete the 5K gets an extra slice of Auntie's lemon pound cake or Mom's sweet potato pie.
3. Honor the first elder to cross the finish line with a crown. Celebrate the first youngin’ to finish with a trophy from the dollar store.
4. Call an absentee family member on the phone and chat with them via FaceTime while you’re on your walk. Give other family members a chance to say hello.
5. Begin your 5K in remembrance of a family member who has passed on. Have a moment of silence, say a prayer, recite their favorite poem or funny saying. Dedicate the walk in memory of those who paved the way for your family.
6. Create a family-friendly “______ Family 5K” playlist. Pump up the volume before, during, and after your walk. Did somebody say “Soul Train Line?”
7. Showcase your swag by adding a little somethin’ somethin’ to your outfit. Rock your colorful kicks, big and bold earrings, or a fancy headwrap or hat. Give the folks with the most style a special sash or championship belt.
8. Share family stories while you walk, especially if you are in the neighborhood that you grew up in. Who used to live across the street? What happened at the corner store in 1993? Teach the children and the grandchildren your family history.
9. Celebrate the end of your walk by cheering for everyone who crosses the finish line. The Black Family 5K is more than just a fun event; it’s a way to launch a family fitness lifestyle.

**Bonus points if you and your family keep the tradition alive by walking together throughout the year.

Do you still have more questions? Email our Community Care Team at [e-mail].