Volunteer Information Hub
Below you'll find information on what you should know before the Red Shoe 5k on October 4. We’ll continue updating this information, so be sure to check back for updates!
*Note that this information is subject to change.
Race Day Information
Event Details
Date: Sunday, October 4
Location: National Harbor, 155 National Plaza, Oxon Hill, MD 20745
Participant check-in: 7:30AM
Kid’s Fun Run: 8:30 AM
Red Shoe 5k: 9:00 AM
Volunteer Timeline
6:00 AM - Registration and event set-up volunteer arrival
7:00 AM - General volunteer arrival
9:00 AM - Cheer Squad arrival
10:45 AM - Event breakdown & clean up
Volunteer Check-In:
Meet under the large tent on the pier, a short walk north of Redstone American Grill. Look for the “Volunteer Check-In” sign when you arrive.
We recommend arriving 15 minutes before your shift to account for parking.
What to Wear
- Your volunteer t-shirt (provided at check-in)
- Comfortable, closed-toe shoes suitable for standing and walking. Red shoes are encouraged if you have a pair!
- Weather-appropriate clothing and layers - right now, it looks like we are likely to receive rain. Our event will go on rain or shine!
- Red and white striped clothing, red hearts, or other festive accessories
- Most importantly, dress comfortably and feel free to be festive!
**Not sure if something is appropriate? Please don’t hesitate to reach out and ask.
What to Bring
- A fully charged cell phone
- Any necessary medications or medical items
- Only essential personal belongings. Please avoid bringing large bags or backpacks.
**Please leave valuables and unnecessary items at home, there will not be a protected area to store your belongings.
Parking
Parking is at your own expense this year. We recommend using the Mariner Garage (164 Mariner Passage, Oxon Hill, MD 20745)
Street parking may be available, or you can use one of the public parking lots or garages throughout National Harbor.
Carpooling or using public transportation is encouraged when possible.
Restrooms
Closest Option:
165 Waterfront St, Oxon Hill, MD 20745
Farther Option:
155 Potomac Passage, Oxon Hill, MD 20745
Starbucks:
167 Waterfront St, Oxon Hill, MD 20745
Emergency Contacts
Hannah Morgan, Volunteer Manager
(240) 801 - 6321
Lisa Zocher, Events Manager
(703) 951 - 2894
911
Public Emergency
Public Safety Non-Emergency
(301) 352-1200
For any medical emergency, fire, immediate safety threat, serious injury, or other urgent situation, call 911 first. Then notify your Volunteer Lead or RMH staff.
We will have on-site professional EMS teams. If there is any kind of injury or issue, please let a staff member know immediately.
Race Course
Please note that the course includes a turnaround point and is not a loop.
Runners and walkers will begin near the pier, follow the waterfront toward the bridge, turn around at the designated point, and return along the same route to the start/finish area.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I bring my dog?
- Yes! All well-behaved, leashed dogs are welcome.
- Is the event wheelchair accessible?
- Yes. The National Harbor waterfront and pier area are wheelchair accessible, with ramp access available. Please use caution on areas of the pier with uneven or transitional surfaces, including portions of the wooden decking.
- Will food and water be provided?
- Yes. Breakfast and refreshments will be available for volunteers starting at 6:30 AM.
- What if it rains?
- The Red Shoe 5K is an outdoor event. Volunteers should dress for the forecast. Any significant weather-related changes or cancellations will be communicated directly to volunteers but we’re going to be there rain or shine!
- What if I’m running late or can no longer volunteer?
- Please contact Hannah as soon as possible so we know you are safe and can adjust coverage for your assigned role.
