Join us on May 31, 2025, for a joyful, family-friendly 5K through scenic Old Town as we celebrate two great occasions: the 230th Anniversary of the Basilica of Saint Mary and the Feast of the Visitation—when Mary went “in haste” to share the joy of Christ with her cousin Elizabeth. Whether you run, walk, or cheer from the sidelines, this is a celebration of mission, movement, and community.

Let us run with haste—like Mary on the Feast of the Visitation—carrying Christ with us in joyful mission.
Bring your family, invite a friend, and celebrate 230 years of grace!

8:30 AM – Mass at the Basilica (Feast of the Visitation)
9:00 AM – Check-in & Bib Pick-up Opens
9:30 AM – Opening Prayer & Warm-up
9:45 AM – 5K Walk/Run Begins outside of the Basilica of Saint Mary, 310 S Royal St
10:30 AM – Post-Race Celebration & Refreshments
10:45 AM – Awards & Closing Announcements at the Basilica of Saint Mary’s Lyceum, 313 Duke Street

| Category | Cost |
|---|---|
| Early Bird (before May 15) | $20 |
| General | $30 |
| Kids under 5 | FREE |
| Religious & Volunteers | FREE |
All are welcome! Whether you’re a runner, walker, stroller-pusher, or cheerleader, there’s a place for you. Volunteers are also needed and appreciated!
This is a non-competitive, untimed community event. Our focus is celebration and participation over speed.
Water bottle (hydration stations will be available)
Comfortable shoes
Joyful spirit and a heart for service!
Street parking is available throughout Old Town. We recommend arriving early to allow time to find parking. Please be mindful of posted signs and temporary road closures.
Yes. Portions of the race route will involve temporary road closures for the safety of participants. A Traffic Control Plan will be posted in advance and shared with registered participants.
Yes! We need help with race setup, water stations, cheering squads, clean-up, and more. Sign up on the website or contact our team at mstaron@stmaryoldtown.org.
The race will be held rain or shine. In the case of extreme weather, updates will be posted on this page and sent to all registrants.
The event honors the Feast of the Visitation, when Mary “went with haste” to serve Elizabeth. It’s a joyful reminder of our call to serve with enthusiasm and love — and a perfect way to celebrate 230 years of faith, community, and mission.
We’re looking for volunteers and parish groups to support the event with:
Interested in volunteering or sponsoring?
📧 Email: mstaron@stmaryoldtown.org
The Basilica of Saint Mary
310 South Royal Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
Main Offices
313 Duke Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
Contact
Phone: 703-836-4100
Fax: 703-549-3605
Email Contact
Office Hours
Monday-Friday: 9:00am – 5:00pm
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