James Weldon Johnson Birthday 5K
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James Weldon Johnson Birthday Run
The James Weldon Johnson Birthday Run is held on June 20, 2026, at James Weldon Johnson Park, 135 West Monroe Street, Jacksonville, Florida. The event includes a chip-timed 5K and a one-mile Fun Run/Walk, with the route passing through the LaVilla neighborhood and including historical information about James Weldon Johnson along the course. The race starts and finishes at the park.
Race features listed for participants include shirts for all entrants, medals for all finishers, overall and age-group awards, chip timing, and a team competition. The finish area becomes a block party with food trucks, games, music provided by a DJ, birthday cupcakes at the celebration, and a festive atmosphere that includes champagne.
The event is presented by VyStar Credit Union and 1st Place Sports and is described as the Second Annual JWJ BDAY 5K & Block Party, marking the anniversary of James Weldon Johnson’s birth. All proceeds benefit Friends of James Weldon Johnson Park, the nonprofit partner that manages the park. Friends of James Weldon Johnson Park aims to engage with local history, build partnerships, and create cultural events and public programming for downtown Jacksonville. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
