Best Buddies Friendship Walk: Washington D.C.
Let's change the world for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD)
Spring 2026 - Date TBD
8:30 AM | Washington, D.C.
Thank You!
Thank you for participating in this year’s Friendship Walk! Through your amazing efforts, we raised vital funds and awareness to sustain and expand our local Best Buddies programs. We look forward to seeing you at next year’s event. With your support, our mission of friendship and inclusion is stronger than ever!
The Best Buddies Friendship Walk is the leading event in the country supporting inclusion for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).
Join more than 50,000 participants at 80 events across the globe to support the Best Buddies programs in schools, workplaces, and communities. You’ll be making the world more welcoming to people with IDD — one friendship, one job, and one life-changing connection at a time.
The Best Buddies Friendship Walk in Washington, DC is an unforgettable event held on the iconic National Mall! Join us for a day filled with joy, inclusivity, and the spirit of friendship as we walk together to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Our annual walk brings together over 2,000 walkers to raise awareness and funds for Best Buddies in Virginia & DC. We are dedicated to fostering genuine friendships, inclusion, and opportunities for our community. Come be a part of this incredible experience, celebrate diversity, and make a positive impact in the lives of the people we serve. Together, we can create a more inclusive and compassionate world!
Accessibility Information:
- ASL interpretation from TCS Interpreting and Captions
- Flat walk route – do note that it takes place on gravel and grass
- Headphones on request available at Registration and Quiet Tent
- Quiet Tent with sensory tools
Email MarySchafhauser@bestbuddies.org with questions or requests, and we will do our best!
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Emcee: Eileen Whelan
Schedule
Spring 2026 – Date TBD
Check-in: 8:30 AM
Opening Ceremonies: 9:00 AM
Walk: 10:00 AM
Celebrate Until: 12:30 PM
Location
National Mall, Washington D.C.
7th and Madison Dr.
View Route Map >>
Event Contact
Mission Movers – Top Fundraisers
Fundraising Rankings
Going the extra mile for Best Buddies.
Below are the rankings of the top 100 individuals and teams for this year’s event.
Supporting Local Programs
Funds raised through the Friendship Walk benefits Best Buddies – the largest organization dedicated to ending the social, physical and economic isolation of the 200 million people worldwide with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Our programs empower people with IDD to form meaningful friendships with their peers, secure jobs, improve communication and advocacy skills, and live independently, while also offering support for their families.
The IDD community that Best Buddies serves individuals with IDD and their families. The IDD community includes, but is not limited to, people with Down syndrome, autism, Fragile X, Williams syndrome, and other undiagnosed disabilities.
We Love Our Sponsors!
Presenting Sponsor
Additional Sponsors
For sponsorship opportunities and other event inquiries, please contact:
MarySchafhauser@bestbuddies.org
Best Buddies in Virginia & D.C.
1961 Chain Bridge Rd, Mall D3L, McLean, VA 22102
Frequently Asked Questions
Every person who raises $50 or more will receive the official Best Buddies Friendship Walk t-shirt on walk day. It’s our way of saying thank you for supporting a more inclusive world and going the extra mile! Want to make sure you receive this year’s shirt? Get registered and start fundraising today!
First things first: Thank you! Your donation will count toward your child’s fundraising total, so they will be the one who earns the t-shirt. Want to make sure you receive one? Register to walk alongside them, make a donation of $50 or more, and the shirt is all yours on walk day!
We do! Simply bring it with you to the walk or contact your local Best Buddies office. Online donations are the easiest and safest, most secure way to give to Best Buddies, but either way — you’re making a difference!
Absolutely! Volunteers are vital to the success of the Friendship Walk, whether it’s assisting with event planning, day-of support, and more. Want to sign up to volunteer? Contact your local Best Buddies staff member — scroll up on the page one section to find more information!
Service animals are always welcome at the Friendship Walk! However, the allowance of other pets depends on the specific venue. For more information regarding bringing non-service animals, please reach out to your local Best Buddies staff member.
Best Buddies does not sell, share, or rent personal information collected through our website’s registration or donation forms. For more information, visit bestbuddies.org/privacy-policy