Black Family 5K 2026 | Frequently Asked Questions

HOW DOES THE BLACK FAMILY 5K (BF5K) WORK? It’s simple! You and your family — whether that’s your relatives, your friends, or your chosen family — take a walk together during Thanksgiving weekend. You can amp up your walk and make it hype by ordering the official Black Family 5K T-shirts and swag, but it’s not required.

HOW CAN I REGISTER MY FAMILY FOR THE BLACK FAMILY 5K? You can sign up directly on the website by visiting www.BlackFamily5K.com. Register your family and download your official Black Family 5K Toolkit — it’s your guide for planning the perfect walk. Once registered, you’ll receive email reminders & updates leading up to Thanksgiving weekend — and we’ll check in to celebrate when your family or friend crew completes your 5K. We also recommend keeping an eye on our Facebook and Instagram pages for updates throughout the month.

WHEN DOES THE BLACK FAMILY 5K HAPPEN? Anytime over Thanksgiving weekend — November 26–29, 2026. Most families walk right after the meal on Thursday, while others prefer Friday as a fun alternative to Black Friday shopping. Pick the day that works best for your crew, and post your pics on social using #GirlTREK.

Quick Tip: If you’re traveling for the holiday, host multiple walks — one at your cousin’s house on Thursday and another around your neighborhood on Sunday. It’s the perfect way to introduce your family or chosen family to the power of walking and start a new tradition.

WHERE DOES THE BLACK FAMILY 5K HAPPEN? Wherever you are, these are neighborhood walks — some folks circle the block, others head to a nearby park. There’s no central gathering. You choose the place and lead your people.

Quick Tip: Scout the route beforehand to make sure it’s stroller- and senior-friendly so everyone — from babies to great-grandparents — can join safely. If your family is super-sized, check with your city to see whether you need a permit.

WHO CAN PARTICIPATE IN THE BLACK FAMILY 5K? Anyone. This is a family affair — including chosen families, friends, and loved ones who feel like home. Whether you walk with your relatives, your church group, your coworkers, or your sisters-in-spirit, everyone is welcome.

Quick Tip: Keep it inclusive and comfortable for all fitness levels — no sister, brother, Madea, or Uncle Joe left behind. Bring water and keep everyone hydrated.

DOES IT COST ANYTHING? No. All you have to do is lace up, walk, and enjoy. You can purchase official shirts and swag, but this is about spirit over stuff — joy, health, and connection.

BUT I WANT GEAR! WHERE DO I GET IT? Order your medals and the official 2026 Black Family 5K Long-Sleeve Tee here: https://shop.girltrek.org/collections/black-family-5k. Please order by November 16th to receive it in time for Thanksgiving Day.

Quick Tip: If you can’t purchase BF5K gear, wear your family reunion shirts or matching colors. The goal is to represent your tribe — born or chosen — and make joyful memories together. We also always encourage GirlTREK blue when in doubt.

HOW DO I GET OTHERS INVOLVED? Head to BlackFamily5K.com to register, order merch, stay connected on social, and check your email!

WAYS TO MAKE YOUR BLACK FAMILY 5K MEMORABLE

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 and #BlackFamily5K.
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.
Crown the first elder to cross the finish line. Celebrate the first youngin’ to finish with a dollar-store trophy.
Call an absentee family member and chat with them via FaceTime while you’re on your walk. Give other family members a chance to say hello.
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 to those who paved the way for your family.
Create a family-friendly “________ Family 5K” playlist or go to https://tinyurl.com/Black-Family-5K to find our curated playlist, made just for you to listen on your walk. Pump up the volume before, during, and after your walk. Did somebody say “Soul Train Line?”
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.
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.
Celebrate the end of your walk by cheering everyone on as they cross 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 create your family crew on the GirlTREK app! Download here.

Questions?

Email our Community Care Team at Info@GirlTREK.org.