3 walking events in Needham, Massachusetts
From big races to Saturday morning group runs—find walking events and connect with the local endurance sports community.
Needham
3 events in Needham-
Sun, May 17, 2026 at 10:00 AMSee full details
GREAT BEAR RUN - EVENT INFO
IMPORTANT! GREAT BEAR RUN RACE INSTRUCTIONS
SCHEDULE
5K Run - 10 am - all ages
1 Mile Run - 11:45 am - all ages
1 Mile Fun Run - 11:47 am - all ages
26.2 Meter Bearathon - 12:30 pm - age 0-3
100 Meter Dash - 12:45 pm - age 4-5
200 Meter Dash - 1:00 pm - age 6
400 Meter Run - 1:15 pm - age 7-12
YOUR ARRIVAL - Arrive at least 45-60 minutes before your race at Pollard School, 200 Harris Ave, Needham 02492
RACE WEEKEND REGISTRATIONS - We recommend bringing a phone for in-person registrations(via a QR Code). Registration (and packet pickup) is held at Pollard Middle School on Saturday 10 am - 12 pm & Sunday starting at 8 am!
5K COURSE- Our course is a USATF Certified & Sanctioned 5K.
WATER TABLE- There will be a water table at the 2 Mile point in the race
GETTING HERE
DRIVING DIRECTIONS TO DEFAZIO FIELD
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Take route 95 to Exit 32 - Dedham Ave
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Turn onto MA-135 W/Dedham Ave toward Needham
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Turn RIGHT into De Fazio Field, 380 Dedham Ave, Needham
DRIVING DIRECTIONS TO POLLARD SCHOOL
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Take route 95 to Exit 33 - Great Plain Ave.
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Turn onto Great Plain Ave toward Needham
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Turn LEFT onto Harris Ave (divided street) at Hazel's Bakery
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Proceed to Pollard School, 200 Harris Ave, Needham
PARKING - Needham Residents: We suggest walking or running to Pollard this year due to higher-than-usual registration numbers.
For anyone that is driving please park your car on any side street off Harris - one-side parking only. Parking is also available at DeFazio Field - just walk through the field under the railroad bridge and go to the front of Pollard School.
NO PARKING on Harris Ave from Great Plain Ave to Bradford Steet;
NO PARKING on Bradford Street between Harris Ave and Dedham Ave.
WEATHER - The race is held rain or shine. Consider bringing a water bottle to the race.
REFRESHMENTS - Fruit, snacks, and water/Gatorade will be provided. Pizza for sale $4 per slice.
More Races! More Awards! More Fun! More Teddy Bears!
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Sun, Sep 27, 2026 at 10:00 AMSee full details
ABOUT THIS EVENT
Save the date for the 16th Annual CRC 5K Run/1 Mile Walk. We hope you will join us on Sunday, September 27th, 2026 beginning at 10:00 am at the Charles River Center, 59 East Militia Heights Drive, Needham, MA.
Following last year's successful introduction of age-group competition, we're excited to once again offer age categories in this year's 5K Run. Whether you're a seasoned runner or participating in your first race, you'll have the opportunity to compete alongside others in your age group. This format promotes friendly competition, encourages participation across generations, and allows us to recognize top finishers in each category. Lace up your shoes and get ready to run for age-group bragging rights!
We also invite you to join us for our after-party, which will take place at 59 East Militia Heights Drive, after the race has concluded.
All proceeds of the Charles River Center 5K Run/1Mile Walk will benefit over 1000 children and adults with disabilities served by the Charles River Center. All abilities welcome. To learn more about the Charles River Center please visit: www.charlesrivercenter.org
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Fri, Oct 16, 2026 at 5:00 PMSee full details
Jog Your Memory 5K, Inc. was founded in 2014 by Jess Rice and her husband Bob. Since then, the Jog Your Memory Board has grown to eight, dedicated members, who are all-in to help fight Alzheimer's. The non-profit hosts a 5K race and walk every year out of Needham in an effort to raise funds and awareness for Alzheimer's research and caregiver reprieve. To date, they have raised over $2.35 million; for the past twelve years, 80% has gone to research, and 20% has been set aside for a Caregiver Grant - a reserve used for those caring for loved ones who might need a little extra incentive to get the help they need.
The 2026 5K run and 1.5-Mile walk for Alzheimer's will offer flexible options. Our 13th Annual race will be held in-person in Needham on Sunday, October 18th and a virtual option will be available for those who are unable to make our in-person event.
Find more information on our story here.
Local Clubs & Organizations
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Club
USA Swimming Club. 114 members.
[email protected] +1 781-444-6400