The YMCA Charity 5K returns to Downsview Park on Saturday, September 26, 2026, at 9 am. Located in the northwest corner of Toronto, Ontario, Canada, this event offers a scenic route through the park's expansive grounds and surrounding neighbourhoods. Downsview Park is already bustling with activity by race morning, but it takes on an extra layer of excitement as runners gather to participate or cheer from the sidelines. The atmosphere is casual yet vibrant, perfect for families and friends who want to support local youth initiatives while enjoying a brisk early-morning run in the cool September air. The third annual YMCA Charity 5K has been growing stronger each year, with over 1,300 kids set to benefit from this event. Since its inception three years ago, it has raised $475,000 and continues to inspire participants by connecting them directly with the cause—sending underprivileged children to YMCA camps where they can build confidence and create lifelong friendships. The course venue is firm but slightly soft due to typical September weather conditions in Downsview Park. The route winds through picturesque trails that offer a mix of flat terrain and gentle inclines, ensuring an enjoyable experience for all participants. Notable features include the park’s central lake, which provides scenic views during the race. At 9 am sharp on September 26th, runners will start from the main entrance near Downsview Road and Sheppard Avenue West. The course layout includes a single loop that returns to the starting area after five kilometers. There are no aid stations planned for this event as it is primarily designed for running or walking within the park’s boundaries. Weather conditions on race day can range between 10°C to 20°C with moderate UV index of 5, which means runners should prepare themselves with appropriate clothing and sunscreen. While there's a low risk of precipitation, participants are advised to check the forecast closer to the event date for any changes in weather patterns. The YMCA Charity 5K offers two distances: an adult 18+ category covering 5 kilometers at CA$60.00 per participant; and a youth under-17 category also running 5 kilometers, but with a reduced fee of CA$30.00.
To secure your spot in this meaningful event, visit https://raceroster.com/events/2026/112029/ymca-charity-5k to register online. Early bird registration closes on Monday, September 14, 2026, at noon for personalized run bibs and other special perks. Bibs can be picked up from the Downsview Community Centre between 3 pm and 7 pm on Friday, September 25th, or one hour before race start time. Participants should bring a photo ID to verify age requirements. The event starts at Downsview Park, located at 100 Downsview Road, Toronto, Ontario M9W 4H6. New participants are encouraged to arrive early for last-minute questions and pre-race warm-ups. This charity run/walk is an essential part of the community calendar in Toronto, Canada, as it not only raises vital funds but also brings together families and friends who share a commitment to supporting local youth programs. By participating or volunteering at this event, runners contribute significantly towards ensuring that more children have access to YMCA camps where they can grow into confident adults.
Races Offered
5K | Adult 18+
Sep 26, 2026
straighten
Distance —
5K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
09:00
sell
$60.00
5K | Youth 17 and Younger
Sep 26, 2026
straighten
Distance —
5K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
09:00
sell
$30.00
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for September in Toronto.
thermostatTemperature
14.5° / 22.1°
wb_sunnyFeels like
13.3° / 21.3°
light_mode
Avg sunshine hours
10h 27m
water_drop
Avg rainfall
1.4 mm
ac_unit
Avg snowfall
—
air
Avg wind speed
10.4 km/h (Light breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
Moderate
terrain
Course conditions
Firm and slightly soft
sunny
Max UV Index
Moderate (5.0)
humidity_mid
Humidity
74.7%
wb_twilight
Sunrise
06:57
nightlight
Sunset
19:26
About Toronto
Learn more about the host city, Toronto.
Toronto is a diverse, energetic and liveable city, home to many tourist attractions, and seemingly endless dining, shopping and entertainment possibilities. It's the most populous city in Canada, the centre of the country's financial sector, and the provincial capital of Ontario.