Waldwick Chamber of Commerce 5K Run and 1 Mile Walk

18th Annual Waldwick Chamber of Commerce 5K Run & 1 Mile Walk
Sunday, May 3, 2026

The Waldwick Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce the 18th Annual Waldwick Chamber of Commerce 5K Run & 1 Mile Walk, taking place on Sunday, May 3, 2026.

This year’s race promises to be bigger and better than ever as we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary.  Get ready for a race day filled with excitement, celebration, and community spirit.

Our race features a USATF-NJ certified 5K course winding through scenic Waldwick Borough Park, with a thrilling finish on the Waldwick High School track. Along the route, runners and walkers will be motivated by more than 50 inspirational signs, making every mile memorable.

As a proud Grand Prix event, this race attracts participants of all levels who love a fast, fun, and spirited competition. Whether you’re racing for a personal best or enjoying the atmosphere, you’re in for an unforgettable experience.

Overall winners and top three age-category finishers will receive a 1776-themed commemorative medal, and participants will also receive special commemorative tech t-shirts. Tech shirts are guaranteed for those who register by midnight on April 24th.  After that date, shirts will be available while supplies last, so early registration is encouraged.

In addition, the first 400 registered runners or walkers will receive a goody backpack bag filled with race-day essentials and exclusive surprises.

Join us at the Waldwick Chamber of Commerce 5K Run & 1 Mile Walk for a 1776-themed Patriotic Costume Contest. Calling all running patriots to show off your best Revolutionary-era costume and compete for exciting prizes. Awards will be given to the top three most creative and patriotic outfits. This is your chance to dress up, stand out, and celebrate in true red, white, and blue style.

The Waldwick Chamber of Commerce 5K Run is more than just a race; it is a way to give back to the community. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to several outstanding local causes, including Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation, the Christopher Goodell Scholarship Fund, the Staff Sgt. Joseph D’Augustine Memorial Fund, the Sean Fisher Foundation, the Waldwick High School Scholarship Fund, and other community, veteran, and volunteer organizations.

We are honored to continue our partnership with Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation, whose mission is to change the lives of children with cancer through impactful research, family support, and advocacy.

Thanks to the generosity of our sponsors, participants, and volunteers, last year’s event raised $40,000, which was donated to more than 40 local organizations. A full list of recipients can be found on the official race website at https://thewaldwickchamberofcommerce.com/waldwick-5k-run/.

This race is dedicated to the memory of our fallen heroes: Marine SSgt. Joseph D’Augustine, Sgt. Christopher Goodell of the Waldwick Police Department, and Marine Gunnery Sgt. Mark Hopkins. Their courage, service, and sacrifice will always be honored through this event.

Don’t miss this unforgettable event. Register today on RunSignUp and be part of one of New Jersey’s most patriotic and spirited races. Let’s celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, honor our heroes, and give back to our community together.

For additional details, please visit the official race website at https://thewaldwickchamberofcommerce.com/waldwick-5k-run/. We can’t wait to see you on Sunday, May 3, 2026, for an unforgettable day of fun, fitness, and community spirit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Waldwick Chamber of Commerce 5K Run & 1 Mile Walk

Q.  Do I need to register online?

A.  Yes! All registrations for this year's 5K Run & 1 Mile Walk will be "online only" through https://runsignup.com/Race/NJ/Waldwick/WaldwickChamberofCommerce5K

When does online registration close out? 

A. Online registration for the 5K Run & 1 Mile Walk will close out on Sunday morning May 3rd at 8:40am

Q.  Where and when can I pick up my race packet?

A.  Race packets will contain everything you need including your bib, chip and race shirt.  They can be picked up at the Waldwick Ambulance Corps location at 20 Whites Lane between 3:00pm -5:30pm on Saturday May 2nd. You may also pick up your packet on race day starting at 7:30am at Waldwick HS Track & Field.  

Q. What time does the 5K Run start?

A. The 5K Run starts promptly at 9:00am at the intersection of West Prospect St. and Hopper Ave.  The 1 Mile Walk will begin after the runners leave the start area. There will be a pre-race dedication ceremony at 8:30am on the High School track and field location prior to the race.

Q.  Where can I park?

A. Parking will be a little tight this year with construction going on at both the high school and middle schools. There will be limited parking in both of those school parking lots locations. The Forum School on Wyckoff Ave and the Village School lots are also available. Parking across from the high school on John Dow Ave and Smithfield is a great alternative. No parking will be allowed on any streets that the 5K course runs along. Parking at the Metro Church across from the High School is also prohibited. Local streets will start closing around 8:00am so please arrive early to leave time for parking. If you live nearby, please consider walking to our event. 

Q.  Can I have someone else pick up my race packet?

A.  Yes. You may have someone pick up your packet.  Please bring identification and give us all the names of registrants from your family.

Q. Are strollers or running baby buggies allowed in the 5K Run?

A. NO. Due to safety concerns for our runners no strollers or running buggies will be permitted in the 5K Run. Please don't try to sneak in. You will be promptly removed from the race and be banned from future events. 

Q.  Can I or my children participate on a bicycle, a scooter, wagon, blade, skateboard, or roller blade?

A.  NO.  For the safety of all, none of the above will be permitted on the course. Strollers and any of the above are not permitted on the new high school track.  

A. Yes  Strollers are allowed in the 1 Mile Walk but are not allowed on the high school track which is the last leg of the 1 Mile course 

Q.  Can I walk the 5K?

A.  Yes, you may walk the 5K Run. We ask that you complete the 5K walk in 50 minutes or less and start in the back of the runners.

Q. Will water be provided on the course?

A. Yes, we will have two water stops. One in Borough Park approx. Mile 1.25 and on Lakeview Drive approximately 2.25 miles on the course. Volunteers will pass out small bottles of water as well as water at the finish line. The temperatures may be hot so we recommend that you hydrate prior to the race. 

Q. Is there an Awards ceremony? 

A.  Yes! Starting around 10:00 am we will announce the Top three overall winners Male & Female. The Top Waldwick winners, Male & Female.  We will have (15) 5-year age group bracket medal awards. All other awards other than those 8 listed may be picked up at the awards tent starting at 10:15am.

Q. What are the awards for the top three Male / Female finishers and Top Male and Top Female Waldwick finishers? 

A. The top three Male and top three Female Finishers will receive commemorative 1776 medals for 1st, 2nd, 3rd place. They will also receive a Gift Card for $75, $50, $25 for 1st, 2nd, 3rd place respectively. "Break the course” Male 15:17 Female 17:36 and receive a $50 gift card.  Top Male /Top Female Waldwick resident winner will receive a medal and a watch donated from Plaza Jewelers here in Waldwick as well as their names displayed on our perpetual plaque located in Waldwick Borough Hall. 

Q Is there a Revolutionary-era costume contest?

A. Yes  Top 3 registered runners or walkers are eligible. 

Join us at the Waldwick Chamber of Commerce 5K Run & 1 Mile Walk for a 1776-themed Patriotic Costume Contest!  Calling all patriots! Show off your best Revolutionary-era costume and compete for amazing prizes. The top three most creative and patriotic outfits will win exciting rewards.  Don't miss out on the fun! Only registered run or walk participants are eligble for best themed costume prizes. Prizes will be awarded at the awards ceremony 

Q.  Am I guaranteed a race shirt?

A. Due to continual supply chain issues, all entries received by April 24th will be guaranteed a Commemorative tech race shirt.   Registrations received after April 24th will be available to participants while supplies last. Shirt sizes after that date will also not be guaranteed.

 Q. Are there Goody bags?

A. Yes there are cool backpacks filled with some great swag from our local sponsors to the first 400 registered runners and or walkers

Q.  What is your refund policy?

A. This event follows the standard running industry policy: All entry fees are non-refundable and bib numbers are not transferable. We reserve the right to postpone or cancel the event due to circumstances beyond our control such as a natural disaster or emergency or as required to protect the safety of participants and staff. No refunds will be issued under these circumstances. We reserve the right to change the details of the event without prior notice

Q.  What happens if it rains?

A.  This is a rain or shine event.  No refunds will be given.  Your donation is going to a great cause! If there is a thunder & lightning warning you will be told to seek shelter in Waldwick High School gym till we get safe clearance. 

Q.  Can I bring my dog?

A.  NO.  We know many dogs are friendly, but for the comfort and safety of all participants please leave animals at home. The Waldwick Board of Education does not allow any pets at the Waldwick High School Track and Field facility.

Q. Can I offer a "glowing review" about this awesome event after the race?

A. Yes!  You surely can.  We appreciate your reviews whether positive and negative. It's our personal report card as we prepare for next year's 5K run.  We all appreciates your support. Please email reviews of our event to LtSki73@gmail.com.  Much Appreciated. 

Q Is there a post-race party?

A. Yes, there is a post race party at Gearblock Brewing Company nearby at 140 Franklin Tpke, Waldwick starting at 11:15am. Bring your race bib to receive a free 5oz. beverage courtesy of Gearblock Brewing Company  Must be 21 years or older. Our two sponsors, Bombay Hut and Mangia Pizza will provide food at the party. 

Q.  I have a question that is not answered here.

A.  Please contact Stan Kowalski, Race Director Waldwick Chamber of Commerce 5K Run & 1 Mile Walk   LtSki73@gmail.com

AWARDS

Awards Ceremony will take place after the race

5K Run Awards

Top Three Males ( Commemorative Medals)  $100, $75, $50     

Top Three Females (Commemorative  Medals)  $100, $75, $50  

Top Male/ Female Waldwick Resident (Medal & Watches Donated by Plaza Jewelers  Waldwick)

"Break the Course Record "  Male 15:17   Female 17:36   ($50 Male / $50 Female )  

"15 " Age Bracket Awards

“Bracket scoring will be based on clock timed results”

Male  Awards                                                                          

(Commemorative medals)   

9-under

10-14                55-59

15-19                60-64

20-24                65-69

25-29                70-74

30-34                75-80+

35-39                

40-44

45-49

50-54

Female Awards

(Commemorative Running  medals)  

9-Under       

10-14                55-59

15-19                60-64

20-24                65-69

25-29                70-74

30-34                75-80+

35-39                

40-44

45-49

50-54

Note: Top 3 Overall winners are not entitled to receive bracket award placing

Top Three Male /Female Finishers and Top Male/Female Waldwick Finishers will be announced

All other bracket winners may pick up their medals at the awards tent after the race

Previous race surveys

• Excellent race! Very well organized and loved the start location and all the festivities! An abundance of after race food, water, juice for runners after crossing finish line. Great support and a very nice course and run! Thank you!
• Great race great cause and the only issue is the free tee shirt size only avail in XL you should at least have 2XL for us fat bastards! Just saying
• The course is challenging but not difficult. Lots of rest stations, medical support, and much encouragement along the way. Can't say enough good things about the organizers and sponsors. The pre-race festivities are phenomenal and the race participants are really a great bunch of people.
•  First year attending and I already told all my friends about it. Loved the how organized everything was, the course, the patriotic spirit and most importantly the people and town of Waldwick. Coming back again in 2024. The swag bag was terrific and greatly quality. Have to make sure my family doesn't "borrow" it. Did not participate in post-race this year as I had no idea everything would be so great. But will definitely participate next year.
• It was a fun race, good cause, good hype; the shirt quality was poor, all cotton, should be microfiber for running
• Everything was great except I didn't get the T-shirt size I reserved. It'll be helpful if there's a times every mile
• One of the most organized 5k's I've ever run. From the pipe and drum band to the inspirational signs along the course the event was very thought out.
• I enjoy this run. I do it every year. Love the atmosphere - the feel of community. Never miss this one.
•  I wish you have an age group for 80 and over runners.
  I'm 83 years old and I don't want to compete with 75 years old runners which is very discouraging. Many races have 80 and over age group, some has even 85 and over. If you'll have 80 and over age group next year, I'd like to participate again.

Gildan performance tee shirt