Annual 5K RUN & WALK With The DOGS

Get ready for an exciting community celebration supporting the Animal Rescue Foundation (ARF) as we honor 40 years of lifesaving work. On Sunday, May 17, 2026, animal lovers, runners, walkers, and their four-legged companions will gather at Memorial Park in Beacon, NY, to make a meaningful impact—with 100% of event proceeds directly supporting the rescue and care of animals in need.

As Beacon’s only nonprofit sporting event dedicated to saving animals’ lives, this milestone race brings together fitness, fun, and compassion in honor of ARF’s legacy and future. The event welcomes participants of all ages and abilities, with professionally timed races using chipped running bibs.

 

🐾 Race Options

1K Kids Fun Run (Ages 3-10)
A fun-filled, confidence-building race where every child earns a finisher prize.
Dogs are not permitted in the Kids Fun Run.
Children under 3 participate for free
 
5K Run & Walk with the Dogs 
Run or walk alongside your leashed pup in this heartwarming main event.
Children under 3 participate for free

 

Registration Fees

5K Run & Walk with the Dogs
$30 – Early Bird Rate
$35 – Regular Rate (Begins April 1)
$40 – Race Day

1K Kids Fun Run (Ages 10 & Under)
$15 – Early Bird Rate
$20 – Regular Rate (Begins April 1)
$30 – Race Day  

 

🎁 Event Swag:

All participants registered by April 30 will receive an event commemorative item. Register early to guarantee your event swag. 

 

📅 Schedule of Events:

✔ 9:00 AM – Check-in & Registration 

✔ 9:50 AM – Dog Costume Contest: Most Original & Most Hilarious Costume

✔ 10:00 to 10:15 AM – 1K Kids Fun Run 

✔ Immediately Following – 5K Run & Walk with the Dogs

 

🎉 Post-Race Celebration

Stay and celebrate ARF’s 40th Anniversary with awards, music, games, face painting, vendor exhibits, raffles, and more. Participants who fundraise can also earn exclusive prizes by reaching fundraising milestones.

Whether you’re chasing a personal best or enjoying a stroll with your pup, every step helps save lives. Join us as we celebrate four decades of compassion—one paw at a time.

 

Important Event Information

• This is a rain or shine event and is non-refundable

• Strollers are permitted only on the 5K course

• Dogs must be non-aggressive, current on vaccinations, and leashed at all times

• Retractable or bungee-style leashes are not permitted

• Each adult participant may be accompanied by one (1) dog, which will receive an official event dog tag. You may also receive a tag for your at-home pet (cat or dog)

1K Kids Fun Run

Click Here to View

 

5K With The Dogs

Click Here to View

 

Thanks to Our Participants, Sponsors, & Vendors!

In our inaugural year, on Sunday, May 22, 2016, our community and local businesses generously stepped up to make the first-ever ARF 5K Run & Walk with the Dogs a howling success! Nearly 60 participants—plus countless volunteers and spectators—ran or walked the 5K, with or without their four-legged companions.

The enthusiasm was overwhelming, and many participants shared in our post-event survey that they planned to return and bring friends and family along. 

"Today is about the animals, not who came in first or received which awards. Today, we are here because we support them!”
 
“My family and I had a great time at your event today. We came up from Bedford and appreciated the opportunity to have been allowed to bring our dog on the run with us. He loved it, too. We feel really good about the proceeds going towards the shelter. It was our first time to Beacon, and we enjoyed brunch at the Beacon Falls Cafe, bought some art glass at Hudson Beach, and donuts from Glazed Over to bring home. Thanks to you and your staff and volunteers for a great event!  See you next year!”
​
"I wish this was more than once a year. I can't wait for next year!”
 
“It was a great time.”

 

 

MEDIA COVERAGE

       

 

 

 

OUR SPONSORS

 

 

OUR IN-KIND DONORS

Adams Fairacre Farms, All You Knead Bakery, Artisan Wine Shop, Hanneford Grocery Store,

HGPage & Sons Hardware, I84 Diner, More Good, Planet Fitness, Shop Rite, Stop & Shop, Walmart

Thanks to Our Participants, Sponsors, & Vendors!

On May 21, 2017, we hosted our biggest event yet, with over 100 participants!  

That incredible day would not have been possible without the amazing support of our diverse community—runners and walkers, four-legged friends, moms and dads with strollers, children, teenagers, retirees, military personnel, athletes, and non-athletes alike. We are especially grateful to our dedicated ARF volunteers and their families, as well as the City of Beacon and the Beacon Police Department for their invaluable support.

Together, we made it a day to remember!

 

 

SPONSORS

                 

             

           

 

 

 

IN-KIND DONORS

Adams Fairacre Farms, Artisan Wine Shop, DE's Jewelers, FoodTown Cold Spring, 

Hot To Trot, Hudson Valley Renegades, McGillicuddy's, Minuteman Press, Party All The Time, ShopRite

 

 

 

 

 

VENDORS

Orange Theory Fitness, Just For Kicks  

May 20, 2018: All About the Dogs and Their Two-Legged Friends!

So many smiling faces from start to finish! The dogs were in their element—soaking up all the attention, meeting new furry friends, and loving every moment. Best of all, everyone got along beautifully!

A huge thank you to our incredible supporters: AARAuction, DJ Vybe, Adams Fairacre Farms, Crown Trophy, Copy A Second, Shop Rite Supermarket, The Beacon Veterinary Associates, and Fishkill Girl Scout Troop 10524. We are also deeply grateful to the City of Beacon Parks & Recreation, the Mayor’s Office, and the Beacon Police Department, who have been with us since day one.

A special shout-out to Teresa Troy of TroyFitness for getting the crowd warmed up and ready to race!

And of course, to all our sponsors, vendors, participants, and their four-legged companions—THANK YOU for making this day so special.

We can’t wait to see you all next year! 🐾🎉

 

 

SPONSORS

                 

                  

     

               

 

 

 

 

 

VENDORS

           

May 19, 2019: A Year of Firsts and Phenomenal Growth!

The incredible number of first-time participants—both human and canine—this year was a true testament to how much the ARF 5K has grown! Since our inaugural event in 2016, participation has quadrupled, from 59 runners and 27 dogs to an amazing 207 runners and 101 dogs in 2019.

Even more exciting, we raised more funds than ever to support ARF’s mission—helping animals find their forever homes and funding essential community programs.

None of this would be possible without YOU! Your participation, support, and generous donations make this event a success year after year.

Thank you for being part of this journey—see you next year! 🐾💙

 

 

 

TOP DOG SPONSORS

         

 

 

 

 

FIRE HYDRANT SPONSORS

                 

             

 

 

 

 

PAW PALS SPONSORS

       

 

 

 

VENDORS

             

2020: The Year We Went the “Social Distance.”

In its 5th year, the ARF 5K adapted to the challenges of COVID-19 by transitioning to a virtual event. Our dedicated participants went the “social distance” to support the Animal Rescue Foundation, all while staying active and enjoying the fresh air.

While it was a tough decision to forgo gathering at Memorial Park in Beacon, our mission remained the same. Thanks to our amazing sponsors, donors, and supporters, we stayed connected virtually and upheld our promise to the cats and dogs at ARF.

The health and well-being of our community were our top priorities, and we are incredibly grateful to everyone who made this event a success. Thank you for standing with us during an unprecedented year! 🐾💙

 

TOP DOG

     

 

 

 

FIRE HYDRANT

 

 

 

FUR-LANTHROPISTS

       

       

 

 

 

 

PAW PALS

           

Beacon Hotel Restaurant & Lounge, Joker Ink

May 15, 2022: A Joyful In-Person Return!

After two years of virtual events, we were thrilled to be back in Beacon on a warm and beautiful day—the perfect setting for our long-awaited reunion!

We welcomed familiar faces, ARF alumni, and many first-time participants, all coming together to celebrate the ARF 5K. The day was filled with excitement, laughter, and fresh air, reminding us of the incredible community that makes this event so special.

Your unwavering support means the world to us! Thank you for making our in-person return such a success! 🐾💙

 

 

 

TOP DOG SPONSOR

 

 

 

 

FIRE HYDRANT SPONSORS

 

 

 

 

    

 

FUR-LANTHROPIST  SPONSORS

    . 

 

 

 

 

PAW PALS SPONSORS

   

 

 

 

 

VENDORS

   

Sunday, May 21, 2023: An Amazing Day!

What an incredible day we had! 🎉🐾

Year after year, your generous sponsorships and donations make a tremendous impact, helping us rescue and care for animals in need. This event wouldn't be possible without YOU—our dedicated supporters, participants, and community partners.

Thank you for being a vital part of our mission and for making 2023 another unforgettable year! 💙🐶🏃‍♀️

 

 

TOP DOG SPONSORS

         

 

 

 

 

FIRE HYDRANT SPONSORS

                

             

 

 

 

 

 

FUR-LANTHROPIST  SPONSORS

          

              

 

 

 

 

PAW PALS SPONSORS

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VENDORS

  

May 19, 2024: A Record-Breaking Year! 🎉🐾

With 224 participants and 75 dogs, this year’s ARF 5K was our most successful event yet—all thanks to YOU! Your generous support and donations made 2024 another record-breaking year, bringing together an incredible community of animal lovers.

Your contributions directly impact the lives of rescued cats and dogs, giving them the second chances they deserve. We are truly grateful for your support and partnership.

Thank you for making this event unforgettable! 💙🐶🐱🏃‍♀️

 

 

 

MEDIA COVERAGE

 

 

TOP DOG SPONSORS

         

 

 

 

 

FIRE HYDRANT SPONSORS

         

       

 

 

 

 

FUR-LANTHROPIST  SPONSORS

     

   

 

 

 

 

PAW PALS SPONSORS

       

     

 

 

 

 

VENDORS

 

May 18, 2025: Celebrating 10 Years of Paws, People, and Purpose! 

The 10th Annual ARF 5K Run & Walk with Dogs was a milestone to remember, uniting our amazing community of runners, walkers, and four-legged friends in support of a cause close to our hearts. Thanks to your enthusiasm, generosity, and unwavering support, this special anniversary event was a tremendous success.

 

 

MEDIA COVERAGE

       

     

 

 

 

TOP DOG SPONSORS

 

 

 

 

 

FIRE HYDRANT SPONSORS

          

          

 

 

 

 

 

FUR-LANTHROPIST  SPONSORS

        

                       

 

 

 

 

 

PAW PALS SPONSORS

 

              

 

        

 

 

 

 

VENDORS

         

 

SWAG
Participants who register by April 30 will receive

A Commemorative Item

Unisex Event T-Shirt

Custom Dog Tag for their four-legged running buddies

 

1K Awards
First Place through Third Place Overall – Male and Female  

5K Awards
First Place through Third Place Overall – Male and Female  

First Place through Third Place Overall – Male and Female with their Dog

8 & Under, 9-13, 14-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-79, 80 & Over
Dog Costume Awards

        ➢Most Original Costume Creation
        ➢Most Hilarious Costume  

Following the race, all participants are invited to join in a fun-filled vendor expo day featuring pet-themed, family-friendly activities, music, raffles, and more!

Email Us if you are interested in being a sponsor or vendor of the event.

Friday & Sunday

Memorial Park, NY 12508 

This year's event kicks off the Friday before the event with the pre-race packet pickup.

 

FRIDAY

5:30 PM to 7:00 PM – BIBS & Commemorative Swag. Last chance to Register Before the Price Increase.

 
SUNDAY

7:00 AM – Volunteers Check-in & Event setup.

 

8:30 AM – SPONSORS & VENDORS Check-in. Booths & Tables must be set up and ready by 10 AM.  

 

9:00 AM – Participants Check-In, Registration, BIB & Commemorative items Pick up. Entertainment, Announcements

 

9:30 AM – Warm Up  

 

9:45 AM – Opening & Welcome Remarks

 

9:50 AM – DOG COSTUME CONTEST categories will be judged and presented by City of Beacon community partners.

        ➢Most Original Costume Creation

        ➢Most Hilarious Costume  

 

10:00 AM – 1K KIDS FUN RUN Announcement, Lineup/Instructions and Race Starts (Approximate)

Immediately Following – 5K RUN & WALK WITH THE DOGS Announcement, Lineup/ Instruction and Race Starts (Approximate)

 

10:30 AM – Photo Ops with Community Representatives, Sponsors, and volunteers.

 

11:00 AM – 1K & 5K OVERALL WINNERS Awards Presentations. Announcement of Category Winners will continue as the results are entered & confirmed

 

11:30 AM 

• Cool Down & Stretch

• Sponsors & Vendors Expo, Photo Ops, Music, Face Painting

 

NOON – Announcements LAST CALL FOR Raffles Purchase; drawings start at 12:30 PM.

 

12:30 PM – Raffles Drawing & Sponsor Giveaways. 

 

1:30 PM – CLOSING REMARKS. Sponsors & Vendors Expo, Photo Ops, Music, Face Painting CONTINUE

 

2:00 PM – Breakdown. See you next year!

2016 - (ColorCube Inc.) Gildan DryBlend® T-Shirt 8000, Color: Light Blue - $200 In-Kind, Final $405.00 for 100 Shirts

     

 

2017 - (Minuteman Press), Color: Green, Final $614.33 for 100 Shirts

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2018 - (Joker Ink, LLC) Hanes - Essential-T 5280, Color: Yellow - $200 In-Kind, Final $540 for 150 Shirts.

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2019 - (Joker Ink, LLC) Gildan Heavy Cotton™ T-Shirt 5000 Color: Sunset - $200 In-Kind, Final $540 for 150 Shirts.

2022 - (ColorCube Inc.) PC54 Port & Company® Core Cotton Tee, Color: Aqua - $65.63 Discount, Final $590.62 for 100 Shirts

 

2023 - (Mass Artisan) Tultex 202 Unisex Fine Jersey Tee Aqua - $200 In-Kind, Final $1,313.25 for 150 Shirts

 

2024 - (Mass Artisan) Tultex 202 Unisex Fine Jersey Tee, Tultex 235 Youth Fine Jersey T-Shirt, Color: Heather Neo Mint, $200 In-Kind, Final $2,301.30 for 250 Shirts

         

 
2025 - (Mass Artisan) Tultex 202 Unisex Fine Jersey Tee, Tultex 235 Youth Fine Jersey T-Shirt, Color: Heather Mellow Yellow, $200 In-Kind, Final $1,885.95 for 260 shirts

                                                 

Participants BIB and SWAG Pick Up Info:

Friday Pick-Up Location and Schedule:

If you're local and wish to avoid the crowd on Sunday, we offer BIBs and Swag pickup on the Friday before the event.

Location: Memorial Park, Robert Cahill Drive, Beacon, NY 12508 

Time: 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM 

Last chance to Register Before the Price Increase on Race Day

 

Race Day Pick-Up:

Location: Memorial Park, Robert Cahill Drive, Beacon, NY 12508 

Time: Bib Pickup and registration open at 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM 

Participants are encouraged to pick up their packets before race day to minimize lines and enhance everyone's experience. 

We will accept Cash, Checks, and Credit Cards

 

PROPER BIB# PLACEMENT
Place your Bib on your CHEST OR ABDOMEN FACING FRONT, Not on your side or your back!
The photos on RunSignUp will be easily searchable by your name or Bib# if your Bib# clearly shows in the photo. So please take your time to have your Bib# displayed for our photographers!

ROAD CLOSURES

The COB Police Department has approved the temporary closure of certain local roads; however, most roads will remain open to traffic during the event. 

Traffic is relatively light at this time of day, but for your safety and the safety of all participants, volunteers, and spectators, we ask that you stay on the sidewalks as much as possible. Please exercise extreme caution at intersections and follow the instructions given by our volunteers. Your safety and the safety of our volunteers are our top priorities. 
 

AWARENESS & SAFETY

At the event, your pet will encounter various stimuli, including small children, other dogs, loudspeakers, music, cheering crowds, and enthusiastic spectators. You know your pet best, so please use your judgment to determine whether your pet will enjoy the event as much as you will. If you feel that your pet may not enjoy the experience, it’s perfectly fine to leave them at home. 

If you decide to bring your dog with you, please read all the instructions below and follow the guidelines to ensure a great experience for you, your pet, and everyone else. Our goal on race day is for everyone to have a fantastic time while we work together to save as many animal lives as possible. To ensure the safety and enjoyment of all, we have established a few important rules: 
 

DOGS!

You are welcome to bring your four-legged companion to this dog-friendly event. Please ensure that your dog is on a NON-RETRACTABLE leash at all times. Do not leave your pet unattended. For the safety of everyone, please assess your dog’s abilities and position yourself accordingly at the starting line.

All dogs must be well-behaved and non-aggressive towards people, children, and other dogs.  

IF YOU ARE RUNNING OR WALKING WITH YOUR DOG, PLEASE ENSURE THAT YOUR DOG CAN TOLERATE THE DISTANCE AND TEMPERATURE. If this is your first event, please line up at the back or to the side, allowing your dog enough space to acclimate. Additionally, make sure that dogs remain on the sidewalks at all times.

ALL WALKERS SHOULD LINE UP AT THE BACK OF THE STARTING LINE.

If your dog's breed cannot handle this level of exertion, please consider bringing a dog carrier, stroller, or wagon for your pet.  
 
Dog Hydration 
Pet water stations will be available throughout the course and expo area. These are communal bowls, so if you have a puppy or an elderly pet, please keep them safe and bring a travel or disposable bowl for their use. 

Dog Droppings
Nature calls! It is the owner's responsibility to clean up after their dog. Poop bags will be included in the pick-up packet at check-in and registration. There will be no trash cans along the course, so please bring all used bags back with you and dispose of them in the trash cans located near the pavilion. Thank you for your cooperation!  
 

CHILDREN

Strollers! 
For the safety of all participants, please exercise extreme caution at intersections and when approaching other runners and dogs. To reduce congestion and ensure everyone's safety, we recommend that participants with strollers line up toward the back. This will allow the larger group of runners and dogs to spread out more evenly, minimizing the risk of collisions or injuries.

Young Children!
Parents with small children, please ensure that your children remain on the sidewalks at all times. Teach them how to approach dogs safely, and be vigilant in monitoring crowds and pets to ensure your child's safety. It is your responsibility to supervise your child and any other pets. Accidents can happen in an instant.

Celebrating 40 Years of ARF — 40 Years of Saving Lives!

This year’s 5K Run & Walk with Dogs proudly celebrates ARF’s 40th Anniversary—four decades of rescuing animals, strengthening our community, and advocating for those without a voice. This milestone event invites sponsors to align with a trusted nonprofit brand, engage directly with a passionate audience of animal lovers, and help shape the next chapter of ARF’s lifesaving mission.

Our sponsorship opportunities are designed to deliver high-visibility brand exposure, meaningful on-site engagement, and authentic storytelling tied to ARF’s legacy and future impact. 

🐾 Be part of the most barked-about event of the year! 🐾

This highly anticipated race draws widespread attention across the Hudson Valley and beyond, attracting runners, walkers, families, and their four-legged companions. With more than 11,000 engaged followers across Facebook and Instagram, sponsors benefit from extended reach before, during, and after race day.

Together, we can celebrate 40 years of lifesaving work—and ensure many more to come.

💙 Sponsorship Opportunities 💙 

We offer a range of sponsorship levels—from Top Dog to Paw Pal, along with vendor opportunities—making it easy to find the right fit for your brand and budget. Select sponsorship levels also include exclusive 40th Anniversary activations, providing enhanced visibility and engagement opportunities throughout the event lifecycle.

For specific questions about the event or sponsorship packages, please Email Us. 

Sponsorship Packages Below

Who? Anyone
When? Anytime during the month of May
Why? To help support the animals at ARF
Where? The comfort of your home or in your neighborhood
During the month of May, you can run or walk your 5K (3.1 mile) anywhere, anytime you choose. Simply register and complete your event by May 31st.

If you wish, you can upload your finish time into our virtual leaderboard on RunSignup.

 

REGISTRATION FEES:

VIRTUAL ARF RUN & WALK
$30 – Early Bird Rate
$35 – Regular Rate (Begins April 1)
$40 – Race Day

 

Here's how to become a fundraiser - To fundraise without participating in the Virtual 5K, go directly to DONATE!

1. SIGN UP for the Virtual 5K

2. Select "Become a Fundraiser"

3. Create and customize your individual fundraising page, URL, and Story

4. You can also "Join a Team Fundraiser" OR "Create a Team Fundraiser".

5. Share on your social page and invite your friends, families, and co-workers to donate.

6. Collect donations for ARF! and reap the rewards!

The rewards are based on the Individual Fundraiser's Goal NOT the Team's Goal.

How to do a Virtual 5K
1 - You can run, walk or run/walk a 5K course near you, map out your own, or use a treadmill.
2 - To keep track of your activity time you may use a stopwatch, GPS watch, or smartphone.
3 - To track your distance, you may map out your activity or use a GPS watch, to choose your route.
4 - Grab your pup and go. 
5 - Make it fun: Costumes are welcomed and if you participated in any of our prior year events, wear your t-shirt from that event and take a selfie and post on your social media and tag #ARFBeacon5K #ARF5K #ARFBeacon
6 - Upload your time as soon as you've finished and within the deadline. 

At the heart of ARF's work is a passionate team of volunteers who selflessly give their time and energy to support the organization's mission. Their dedication, coupled with the support of the local community, enables ARF to make a meaningful difference in the lives of countless animals year after year. Volunteers are the driving force behind every successful fundraising event. Various opportunities are available for individuals and groups such as students, local groups, and community organizations to participate. 

.

Volunteer Categories:

Click HERE to volunteer or view the details of responsibility. EMAIL US if you have any questions.

Friday:

Participant Check-In 

Participant Giveaway Distribution

Saturday: 

Race & Course Set Up Laborer

Sunday:

Race Set Up Laborer

TIMER & SET UP: Race Start and Finish Line

ARF Ambassador

Participant Check-In

Walk-Up Registration Assistance

Participant Giveaway Distribution

Race Course Guides and Street Marshals

Water Stations Operation

ARF Vendor Table

ARF Finance Handler

Photographer/ Videographer/ Social Media Rep

Here's how to become a fundraiser

1. SIGN UP for your event (5K, 1K, Virtual)

2. Select "Become a Fundraiser".

3. Create and customize your individual fundraising page, URL, and Story

4. You can also "Join an EXISTING Fundraising Team" OR "Create a NEW Fundraising Team".

5. Share and tag #ARFBeacon5K #ARF5K #ARFBeacon on your social page and invite your friends, families, and co-workers to donate.

6. Collect donations for ARF! and reap the rewards!

🐕 THIS IS MY FIRST TIME FUNDRAISING. DO YOU HAVE ANY TIPS?
Yes! Download a copy of our Fundraising Guide, full of tips to inspire and spark creativity to help you get started.

Let’s raise more together! Let's save more together! 

Happy Fundraising! 🐾💙

NOTE: Rewards are based on the Individual Fundraiser's Goal, NOT the Team's Goal.

Animal Rescue Foundation, also known as ARF, is a beacon of hope for animals in Beacon, NY, and beyond. Founded in 1986 by Barbara Shea, ARF proudly celebrates 40 years of lifesaving work as a volunteer-driven, no-kill animal rescue and shelter dedicated to the welfare of cats and dogs in need.

For four decades, ARF’s mission has remained steadfast: to help lost, unwanted, abused, and abandoned cats, dogs, kittens, and puppies by providing the care, compassion, and second chances they deserve. Through a combination of rescue efforts, rehabilitation programs, and sheltering services, ARF works tirelessly to ensure every animal that comes through its doors has the opportunity to find a loving forever home.

For animals facing medical, behavioral, or age-related challenges, ARF goes beyond traditional rescue. The organization provides permanent sanctuary and lifelong care when adoption is not possible, ensuring that even the hardest-to-place animals can live out their lives in safety, comfort, and dignity. As ARF marks its 40th anniversary, this commitment to compassion, community, and lifelong care continues to guide its mission—today and into the future.