Join your neighbors to celebrate Walktober, a statewide initiative promoting walking and its benefits.
Did you know that walking is our official state exercise in Maryland? Walking is an excellent form of exercise that everyone can participate in. Walktober is a celebration of our State’s official exercise and a call to action to promote walking for physical activity and improved health for residents of all ages and abilities. Join your neighbors to celebrate Walktober, a statewide initiative promoting walking and its benefits. Keep reading to learn more.
What is Walktober?
October is ideal for walking — the temperatures are cool and the colors are spectacular. Walktober is a month-long initiative dedicated to promoting health, safety, and education for pedestrians and drivers, aiming to build safer, more sustainable communities in Maryland. The Maryland Department of Transportation develops it. Declared officially by Governor Hogan in 2020, the month celebrates Maryland’s official exercise — walking — as a critical component of well-being for people throughout the state.
Walktober encourages the state of Maryland to increase physical activity in a fun, community-oriented way while creating awareness for pedestrian safety.
Howard County Village Walktober 2025 Challenge
Get ready to step up and represent your village! This October, track your steps using our easy-to-use app and join the group for your village: Dorseys Search, Harper’s Choice, Hickory Ridge, Kings Contrivance, Long Reach, Oakland Mills, Owen Brown Village, Town Center, Village of River Hill, or Wilde Lake.
How to Join:
- Click the link below to download the step-tracking app.
- Once the app is installed, return to this message and click the link again.
- You will be added automatically to your village’s group in the app.
The village with the most steps at the end of October will be crowned the Howard County Village Walktober 2025 Champion! Don’t miss out—download the app today and start stepping for your village! Join the Town Center 2025 Walktober group here.
Upcoming Walktober Events
There will be countless Walktober events all month throughout Howard County. Here are a few upcoming events this weekend:
Saturday, October 4, 9:00 am Every Step Counts Walk & 5K Run:
Get ready to tap into your superpowers and show your support for the Autism community at one of the most exciting events of the year! We’re bringing back a beloved tradition — and this time, it’s more super than ever! Join us for an action-packed day featuring a 5K Run, 4K Walk, and a chill 1K Stroll, all wrapped in an epic SUPERHERO theme! Kids 11 & under register FREE — so bring the whole crew!
Saturday, October 4, 10:15 am (10275 Little Patuxent Parkway, Columbia, MD 21044) Cancer Resource Center Walking Group:
For people with a history of cancer, and their family members, friends, and/or caregivers. Join the walking group for an improved activity level and sense of well-being. We meet at the bear statue in front of Whole Foods at Lake Kittamaqundi. Register here.
Sunday, October 5, 8:00 am (Downtown Columbia Lakefront) Columbia Classic 10K:
Welcome to the heart of Columbia, where the pulse of the city meets the rhythm of running shoes hitting the pavement. The Columbia Classic 10K is not just a test of physical endurance; it’s a celebration of community, culture, and the unique beauty that defines this remarkable city. Lace up your running shoes and join us for a race through the scenic landscapes and charming neighborhoods surrounding downtown Columbia, MD.
Check the calendar here to see all the events.
THRIVE AT COLUMBIA TOWN CENTER
Town Center is one of the ten villages of Columbia, Maryland. Our Village offices are located in Historic Oakland, one of the most beautiful historic buildings in Howard County. In the heart of Columbia, Town Center’s residents enjoy living in an urban community in a suburban setting with close proximity to all Columbia amenities, attractions, and cultural activities. Visit us to learn more about our community at 5430 Vantage Point Road, Columbia, MD 21044. Call us at 410-730-4744 or visit our website https://www.columbiatowncenter.org/