Queens is keeping the running spirit alive with The Kids of Queens 5K and Mile at Flushing Meadows Corona Park. Families, friends, and young runners gather for a morning of fun and movement under the autumn sun. Organized by Queens Distance Runners, this event offers free registration for all NYC students under 18, encouraging every child to get active and be part of something bigger. It’s more than a race—it’s a celebration of health, community, and pride in the World’s Borough. Mark your calendar and cheer for the next generation of runners.

Running Together for a Brighter Future

The Kids of Queens 5K and Mile is more than a fun run. It is a way for children and families to celebrate health, teamwork, and community spirit. Organized by Queens Distance Runners, this event brings together young athletes to enjoy the simple joy of running while building confidence and fostering friendships.

The race will be held on Saturday, November 15, at Flushing Meadows Corona Park. The 1-mile race starts at 9:00 AM, followed by the 5K at 9:30 AM. It is open to runners of all ages and experience levels, making it a great family activity. Whether your child is running for the first time or already part of a school team, this event offers a fun and supportive environment for everyone.

A special highlight this year is that registration is free for all New York City students under 18. Donations are welcome, and all funds raised will support NYC Kids RISE’s Save for College Program, which helps third graders in Queens public schools begin saving for their future education.

This event is a wonderful way to stay active, give back, and take pride in the community that makes Queens so special.

How to make the most of race day

Arrive early. Give yourself extra time to check in, stretch, and enjoy the pre-race buzz. Parking fills quickly, and the morning air is part of the fun.

Dress smart. Layers work best for a November morning in Queens — cool at the start, warm by the finish.

Warm up as a family. Whether you’re running or cheering, make it a group ritual. The energy around the starting line is contagious.

Hydrate and snack. Bring a water bottle and a light pre-race snack for your child. There are usually food vendors nearby for post-race treats.

Stick around. After the race, runners and families are invited to connect, share photos, and learn about QDR’s upcoming Queens Marathon Weekend in December. It’s a perfect preview for anyone thinking about training for longer races together.

The real community run (and what it says about Queens)

What makes events like The Kids of Queens 5K and Mile special isn’t just the race — it’s the reflection of Queens itself. Every stride on that park path mirrors the diversity, resilience, and connection that define the borough.

Here’s why it matters beyond the finish line:

• Community in motion. Runners, parents, kids, and volunteers come together for one morning that showcases what grassroots teamwork can do.

• Equal access. Free registration removes financial barriers so that every child — regardless of zip code — can experience the thrill of a starting line.

• Healthy habits early. For many kids, this race may spark a lifelong love of fitness, wellness, and goal setting.

• Neighborhood pride. The event celebrates Queens’ role as a global hometown, where every culture contributes to the shared rhythm of local life.

• Real connections. Parents, local businesses, and schools come out in support, making it not just a race but a reunion of neighbors.

Queens Kids Run: More Than Just a Race

The Kids of Queens 5K and Mile may sound like a simple race on paper, but in reality, it is so much more. It is a joyful celebration of what makes Queens special — its families, diversity, and strong sense of community.

This event brings people together from all corners of the borough, showing that Queens is more than a place to live. It is a place where everyone belongs, where kids are encouraged to grow, and where neighbors come together to cheer each other on. The free registration and family-friendly atmosphere make it a reminder that fun, fitness, and togetherness can all happen right here in our local parks and streets.

If you are already part of the Queens community, take a moment to appreciate everything it offers — the people, the energy, and the shared pride that fills events like this. And if you are thinking about moving here, let this event be a glimpse of what awaits you: a neighborhood that supports every step forward, big or small.

Looking for a home near parks and family activities? I would be happy to help you find a place that fits your lifestyle and values.