Event Day Information
The 26th Annual Northeast Ohio Buddy Walk® is almost here! We can't wait to come together for a day filled with celebration, connection, and community as we continue Lighting the Way Together!
To help you prepare for an unforgettable day, we've gathered everything you need to know about event day, including the schedule, T-shirt pickup, parking, transportation, accessibility, and more!
Event Day Schedule
Day of Registration and Shirt Pick Up Opens: 8:00am
Trust Drum Circles Interactive Performance: 8:00-8:45am
Let's Get Moving with Jacob's Ladder Fitness: 9:00am
Opening Ceremony: 9:00am
Buddy Walk Steps Off: 9:30am
Post Walk Ceremony will begin after the walk
Buddy Walk® Shirt Pickup
Skip the lines on event day and pick up your Buddy Walk T-shirts early!
Thanks to our partner, Hermes Cleveland, we're offering three convenient opportunities to pick up your Buddy Walk T-shirts before the big day. Please note that each pickup location is available on its designated date only.
Early T-Shirt Pickup | 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Picking up on event day? T-shirt pickup will also be available at Mall C beginning at 8:00 AM on Saturday, October 24.
Please Note: T-shirts cannot be picked up at the DSANEO office. Shirt sizes for participants who registered after the guaranteed shirt size deadline are subject to availability.
Parking and Transportation
We're excited to offer FREE parking for all Buddy Walk® participants at the Willard Park Garage, courtesy of Cleveland City Councilman Brian Kazy!
Parking Details
Location: Willard Park Garage, 601 Lakeside Avenue, Cleveland, OH
Date: Saturday, October 24, 2026
Valid Entry Hours: 6:00 AM – 2:00 PM
IMPORTANT: PRINT YOUR PARKING PASS!
Official 2026 Buddy Walk Parking Pass PDF
To receive complimentary parking, you MUST PRINT the official Buddy Walk parking pass and hand it to the cashier upon entry. Digital passes displayed on cell phones will NOT be accepted.
Each pass is valid for one entry only. No in-and-out privileges are permitted.
Garage Entrance Instructions
Enter from Lakeside Avenue East, between Cleveland City Hall and Mall C. Keep left at the barrier and proceed down the ramp to the garage entrance.
Need a Ride?
Thanks to our Mobility & Transportation Sponsor, Golf Cart Girl CLE, complimentary golf cart shuttles will be available to assist participants traveling between the parking garage and Mall C.
Be sure to download and print your parking pass before event day!
Official 2026 Buddy Walk Parking Pass PDF
Buddy Walk® Event Map
Wondering where to find registration, T-shirt pickup, activities, restrooms, food trucks, or the starting line?
Our event map will help you navigate Mall C and make the most of your Buddy Walk experience! We encourage you to review the map before arriving so you can easily find everything you need throughout the morning.
Buddy Walk® Route
The Buddy Walk® route is approximately one mile through downtown Cleveland. Participants are welcome to complete the full route or take an early finish option for a shorter walk. Choose the route that works best for you and enjoy the celebration every step of the way!
Ready to Celebrate?
The fun doesn't stop at the finish line! Visit our Know Before You Go page to explore entertainment, activities, accessibility accommodations, and helpful tips for making the most of your Buddy Walk experience.
We can't wait to see you on October 24 as we celebrate our incredible Buddies and continue Lighting the Way Together!