TAKOMA PARK, Md. - Marylandian -- Christalis will host its annual Superhero 5K Run/Walk and Community Pop-Up Market on Sunday, September 27, 2026, at Washington Adventist University. Proceeds from this family-friendly event will support Christalis programs serving vulnerable children in Uganda and the DMV area.

Participants are encouraged to dress as their favorite superheroes—or come as themselves, because they are heroes to the children Christalis serves. Hosted by WGTS 91.9 morning-show host Jerry Woods, the event will feature a 5K run/walk along the Sligo Creek Trail, a Little Hero Dash, a costume contest, prizes, raffles, and family activities.

Registration and packet pickup begin at 7:30 a.m. The Little Hero Dash starts at 8:35 a.m., followed by a warm-up at 8:45 a.m. The 5K and Pop-Up Market begin at 9:00 a.m. Registration costs $35 in advance and $40 on race day, with discounted pricing for undergraduate students.

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Registered 5K participants will receive a finisher medal presented by Grace, who joined the Christalis Home when she was six months old. Prizes include a weekend stay in Deep Creek, a Giant Food gift card, spa certificates, and more. Registered runners who complete the free Hero Hunt can enter a raffle for a $100 fuel gift card.

The Community Pop-Up Market will feature local food, beverage, artisan, fashion, and beauty vendors. Attendees can enjoy specialty beverages from Travelin' Tom's Coffee Truck, Kona Ice, a slime cart, and other activities. Market attendees who participate in the Hero Hunt can enter a raffle for a $25 fuel gift card.

First held in 2014 at Washington Adventist University, the Christalis Superhero 5K has grown from a small fundraiser into an annual event attracting supporters from across the DMV and beyond.

"Our Superhero 5K not only brings together our donor community, but unites the local community with our cause in a fun and exciting way," said Shalini David, president of Christalis.

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Registration, volunteer, vendor, and sponsorship information is available at www.christalis.org/5k-run-walk.

About Christalis

Christalis is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that has served vulnerable children and families for more than 20 years. Through its Child & Family Development Program in Uganda and Lilly's Gifts Program in the United States, Christalis provides educational support, food, emergency healthcare, school supplies, clothing, gifts, and other basic necessities. Christalis also assists guardians through income-generating projects and microloans.

Media Contact

Shalini David, President
Phone: (240) 772-1131
Email: shalini@christalis.org
Website: www.christalis.org