Want to teach your children about giving back while making family memories? Charity walks and runs offer the perfect combination of physical activity, community involvement, and charitable giving. These events give kids the chance to experience firsthand how their efforts can make a difference in their community, whether they’re helping other children, supporting environmental causes, or raising funds for medical research.

Fun Charity Runs & Walks for Philly Families in 2026

The Greater Philadelphia region offers numerous family-friendly charity events throughout the year, each providing unique ways for children to engage in philanthropy. From costume contests and face painting to kids’ dashes and nature walks, these events make giving back fun and accessible for all ages. Many events even offer special medals, t-shirts, and activities designed specifically for young participants, helping them feel proud of their contributions.

Scroll down to find our year-long guide to fun runs and walks scheduled for 2026 in and around Philly.

Did we miss your favorite family-friendly charity walk or run in the Philadelphia area? Share it in the comments below to help other families discover more opportunities to get active and give back!

Cupid’s Chase 5K – February 14, 2026

• Location: Philadelphia Zoo, Philadelphia County
• A heartwarming winter 5K supporting individuals with disabilities. This chip-timed, certified course welcomes runners, walkers, and rollers of all abilities. Features medals for all finishers, age group awards (13 categories), trophies for top 3 male/female finishers, and drawstring bags. Early registration (before January 1) guarantees an event shirt. Participants receive zoo admission; no pets permitted. Check-in starts at 7:00 AM, race begins at 8:00 AM.

Be Kind 5k & 1 Mile Fun Run – April 11, 2026

• Location: Holicong Park, Bucks County, Doylestown, PA
• Run, walk, jog, or skip to the Finish Line Party in Holicong Park. All proceeds from the races benefit the Bucks County cancer community by funding the Kin Wellness and Support Center. The 1 mile Be Kind Fun Run begins at 9:30 am, and the Be Kind 5k begins at 10 am. Compete for a best time, or simply have a nice walk and talk with a group of friends or family.

March of Dimes’ March for Babies – April 18, 2026

• Location: The Navy Yard, Philadelphia County
• A classic Philadelphia tradition supporting maternal and infant health, this walk features kid-friendly activities, face painting, and a “superhero sprint” for young participants. The relatively flat route along the Delaware Riverfront Greenway makes it accessible for strollers and young walkers.

The 22nd Annual Sandy Sprint Philadelphia 2026 – April 25, 2026

• Location: The Navy Yard, Marine Parade Grounds, Philadelphia County
• Celebrating it’s 25th anniversary, the Sandy Rollman Ovarian Cancer Foundation is hosting the Sandy Sprint to raise awareness and funds to advance ovarian cancer research. The 5K run/walk starts at 8:30 am with an upbeat race warm-up by Carlos Bradely, Rose Covalesky, and Kimberly Zellers. Musical performances by the Philadelphia Boys Choir and Corale and a Survivor Ceremony turn the event into a day of action, hope and connection.

River Crossing YMCA Bucks County Strong 5K + 1-Mile Run – May 9, 2026

• Location: War Memorial Stadium, Central Bucks West High School, Doylestown, Bucks County
• Part of the historic Bucks 5K Series, this Mother’s Day weekend tradition features seven race options through scenic Doylestown streets. The event includes pre-race entertainment, community cheer support, a 1-mile fun run for younger participants, and a special post-race celebration with family-friendly activities and vendors. Special surprise commemorative items await at the finish line, making it a perfect Mother’s Day weekend activity.

Friends On The Run and Mother’s Day Walk – May 10, 2026

• Location: Pachella Trail to Forbidden Drive turnaround in Wissahickon Valley Park, Philadelphia County
• The Friends in Pink nonprofit is hosting its 11th annual Friends On The Run/Mother’s Day Walk in the Wissahickon Valley Park. Warm ups are at 7:30 am with Representative Khan and Councilman Jones and the race starts at 8 am. Runners and walkers can register a team in honor of a cancer patient or survivor. After the race, competitors and supporters will enjoy a family fun morning with a bounce house, face painting, and games to celebrate.

Powel Elementary 5K & Family Fun Day – May 17, 2026

• Location: Drexel’s Vidas Athletic Complex, 4300 Powelton Ave, Philadelphia County
• A community-building event featuring a 1-Mile Fun Run (9:00 AM), 5K (9:30 AM), and Student Dash. The day includes food and family activities, with proceeds supporting Powel Elementary School’s Playworks partnership. Early packet pickup available before race day. This West Philadelphia tradition brings together students, families, teachers, and neighbors to support whole-child education.

Radnor Elementary School RES Smart Run – May 17, 2026

• Location: Radnor Elementary School, 20 Matsonford Road, Radnor
• A community event featuring 1 mile fun run or 5K race, with prizes for the top overall and age group finishers and plenty of family fun. The proceeds of this race go towards supporting numerous PTO educational and extracurricular opportunities.

The 25th Kiwanis-Herald Sesame Place Classic – May 17, 2026

• Location: Sesame Place, Langhorne, Bucks County
• A family-friendly race series featuring a 5K Classic (8:00 AM), one-mile fun run (7:00 AM), and kids’ sprint races (9:00 AM). Each participant receives a free one-day admission ticket to Sesame Place, plus the opportunity to purchase additional discounted tickets. Sponsored by Levittown Bristol Kiwanis Club and Bucks County Herald.

Girls on the Run Philadelphia 5K Celebration – May 31, 2026

• Location: The Philadelphia Navy Yard, 4747 S. Broad St, Philadelphia County
• A celebratory 5K fun run marking the culmination of Girls on the Run’s spring season. This inspirational event welcomes program participants, running buddies, and community runners of all abilities. Features commemorative medals for all participants, with special programming starting at 7:30 AM and the main run at 9:00 AM. Open to public registration with separate pricing for adults ($30) and youth ($25).

Philly Run Fest – June 7, 2026

• Location: Philadelphia Runner University City, Philadelphia County
• Philly Run Fest is a 5K/10K/15K relatively flat road race through beautiful Fairmount Park in Philadelphia. There’s a run for everyone with 3 distances to choose from. Supporters and competitors can hang out at the Start/Finish Cheer Zone by the Please Touch Museum and enjoy a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere.

CHOP’s Parkway Run & Walk – September 27, 2026

• Location: Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia County
• Presented by Citadel Credit Union, the Parkway Run & Walk raises funds for breakthrough pediatric cancer research and care at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. Participants can choose between a 5k and 2k run/walk and celebrate with family members while working towards advancing a valuable cause.

Delco Run for Heroes – October 11, 2026

• Location: Springfield Township Municipal Complex, 50 Powell Road; Springfield, PA
• This family-friendly event benefits the Delaware County Hero Scholarship Fund, which provides scholarships for the children of Police, Firefighters, and Emergency Responders who died in the line of duty.

Willistown Conservation Trust Run-a-Muck 5K & Countryside Bash – October 3, 2026

• Location: On Point Farm, 6114 Goshen Road, Newtown Square, Chester County
• A unique 5K run or “muck” (walk) through diverse cross-country terrain supporting countryside preservation. This festive event features post-race entertainment including a bonfire, live music, lawn games, mechanical bull, and face painting. Enjoy food, beer, wine, and festivities with the whole family – leashed dogs welcome! Participants receive t-shirts and fastest runners win prizes.

Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation’s Halloween Lemon Run (October)

• Location: Marine Parade Grounds, Philadelphia Navy Yard, Philadelphia County
• A spooky and inspiring Halloween-themed 5K and Kids’ Dash supporting childhood cancer research. Features costume contests with awards for Most Creative, Best Group, Best Pet, and Best ALSF-Themed costumes. Family-friendly and dog-friendly event includes a Kids’ Dash for children under 8.

The Phoenixville Bed Races – November 7, 2026

• Location: Third Avenue at Reeves Park, 148 3rd Ave., Phoenixville, Chester County
• Grab your friends, family, or co-workers to create a team or witness the excitement as teams race decorated BEDS on WHEELS (yes, beds) to raise funds for Ann’s Heart and Good Samaritan Service, two area non-profits providing shelter and supportive services. The event also features food and kids’ activities including face painting and arts and crafts.

Nemours Children’s Run at Philadelphia Marathon Weekend – November 22, 2026

• Location: Von Colln Memorial Field (adjacent to Philadelphia Museum of Art), Philadelphia County
• A festive celebration of youth fitness during Philadelphia Marathon Weekend featuring age-based fun runs along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. Each child receives a t-shirt, medal, and goodies. The event includes giant inflatables, balloon art, soccer clinics by Philadelphia Union, and family activities. Race distances vary by age group, with parent/guardian required to be present.

See this article on our sister site for information on additional Turkey Trots in suburban Philadelphia.

Elves for the Shelves 5K and Fun Run in Radnor– December 5, 2026

• Location: Radnor Memorial Library, 114 W. Wayne Ave., Wayne, Delaware County
• The Elves for the Shelves 5k, Walk, and Fun Run is a family-friendly way to start the holiday season and support the Radnor Memorial Library. The event will start and end in front of the library and features a professionally-timed 5K, a 2.3 mile walk, and a .5 mile Fun Run/Walk option. Register by November 10th to be guaranteed a t-shirt.

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Tips for Participating with Families

1. Register Early: Many events offer early-bird discounts and guarantee t-shirt sizes for advance registrations.
2. Plan for All Ages: Check event websites for age-specific activities and course options. Some events offer shorter routes for families with young children.
3. Come Prepared: Pack sunscreen, water bottles, snacks, and any necessary medical supplies. Consider bringing a stroller for younger children, even if they plan to walk.
4. Make It Fun: Many events have themes – encourage kids to dress up or participate in available activities to make it more engaging.
5. Pace Yourselves: Remember these events are about having fun and supporting good causes, not setting speed records.
6. Follow event websites or social media: Be sure to check event pages and social media for weather-related updates and last-minute changes.
7. Consider volunteering: If your family isn’t ready to participate, many events need help with registration, water stations, and kids’ activities.

Remember to verify dates and details closer to the events, as schedules may change. These family-friendly events offer wonderful opportunities to get active together while supporting worthy causes in your community.

Lead photo courtesy of JPG Photography and Philadelphia Marathon Weekend.