Join us for a day of community, celebration, and purpose at the 22nd Annual Step Up Walk for Down Syndrome, hosted by F.R.I.E.N.D.S.

This year’s event will take place at Middletown Park (7628 Coblentz Rd, Middletown, MD 21769) on Saturday, October 4th, from 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM.

The day will be filled with fun for the whole family—moon bounces, a playground, face painting, music with a live DJ, and a community resource fair under the pavilion. Enjoy delicious food included with your $15 registration (hot dogs, chips, cotton candy, popcorn, and water), plus a free ice cream bar for everyone! The walk begins at noon, but the celebration continues all day long.

The Step Up Walk is F.R.I.E.N.D.S.’ largest annual fundraiser, held each year during Down Syndrome Awareness Month. Your support directly funds meaningful programs such as our Winter Holiday Dinner, Valentine’s Dance, and the Techniques for Success Conference (co-sponsored with our Maryland Down syndrome partners). Proceeds also provide educational, medical, and enrichment grants, as well as funding for schools establishing Best Buddies programs.

This event is more than a walk—it’s a celebration of awareness, acceptance, and the joy our loved ones with Down syndrome bring to our community. We invite you to register online in advance or sign up on site the day of the event.