Walk to School Day

Walk to School Day is a globally recognized event that promotes the many benefits of walking and encourages children to walk to school with an aim to consider personal and environmental health. It offers a chance to make connections within communities, while youth gain independence and experience the responsibility of going to school on their own.

First organized by the Partnership for a Walkable America in 1997, Walk to School Day began as a one-day event to promote the need for communities to be walkable. It quickly transformed into a movement that has encompassed over 40 countries, highlighting the importance of safer and improved streets, healthier habits, and cleaner environments.

The event has been embraced by schools across the United States, often featuring local parades, while officials and policy makers use it to assess pedestrian safety and advocate for infrastructure improvements. Walk to School Day rolls around every year on the first Wednesday in October, providing a platform for schools, families, and individuals to prioritize walkability and create a safe, welcoming environment for students to enjoy their journey to school.