Walk in the footsteps of history, then dance in celebration of a civil rights hero who shaped American culture.

The Second Annual JWJ BDAY 5K & Block Party presented by VyStar Credit Union and 1st Place Sports celebrates the 155th anniversary of James Weldon Johnson’s birth. Runners and walkers of all ages will begin at James Weldon Johnson Park and travel through the LaVilla neighborhood where the Johnson family lived, with historical information about his life along the route. The race finishes back at the Park with a Block Party featuring various food trucks, games, champagne, a DJ to set the festive mood, and cupcakes provided by Noted Marketing. All proceeds from this event benefit Friends of James Weldon Johnson Park, the City’s nonprofit partner that manages Jacksonville’s oldest and most historic park.

The run will start and finish at James Weldon Johnson Park, located at 135 West Monroe Street, Jacksonville, Florida. Check in will begin promptly at 7:30am and the run will begin at 8:00am sharp on Saturday, June 20, 2026.

Visit the official EVENT PAGE for full details 🏆
Interested participants can register at tinyurl.com/JWJBDay5k2026 🏁👟