Native Plant Project Walkathon FAQ

  1. What is a walkathon?
    • A walkathon is an organized event where participants walk a certain distance, typically to raise money for charity, awareness for a cause, or for fitness.
  2. How do I register for a walkathon?
    • You can register online through the event website or at the onsite registration booth at the Plano Baha’i Center at 8:30AM on the day of the event.
  3. Is there an entry fee for the walkathon?
    • There is a $9 registration fee for adults, $5 fee for children ages 6-12 and free for ages 5 and under. The fee helps cover event costs, allows access to the exhibitor booths and the event and contributes directly to the Texas Master Naturalist Program.
  4. What should I bring to a walkathon?
    • Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, a water bottle, hat, sunscreen, and any necessary medical supplies (e.g., inhalers, medications). If you are walking with a group or team, feel free to wear matching shirts or dress with a theme. Have fun with it!
  5. How long is the walkathon?
    • The distance for one lap on the Main Route is .25 miles. One lap on the Inclusive Paved Route is .10 mi. Walkers may choose how many laps they wish to walk based on their sponsors. On average, one lap at a brisk pace on the Main Route for an adult takes approximately 5 minutes.
    • 1 lap/.25 mi./.10 mi./Earth Helper Level (Beginner)
    • 3 laps/.75 mi./.3 mi./Brilliant Star Level (Easy)
    • 5 laps/1.25 mi./.5 mi./Unifier Level (Basic)
    • 9 laps/2.25 mi./.9 mi./Peacemaker Level (Intermediate)
    • 19 laps/4.75 mi./1.9 mi./World Citizen Level (Advanced)
  6. Do I need to fundraise to participate?
    • No, participants may pay the registration/entry fee and enjoy the exhibitors and event without fundraising, however donations are always welcome.
  7. What other activities will there be?
    • Enjoy visiting indoor booths from over a dozen environmental organizations for free information, interactive demos and giveaways. Enter for a chance to win amazing prizes. Explore the Monarch Waystation, pollinator gardens and pocket prairie, which are all in progress.
  8. Will food be served or available for purchase?
    • Light snacks and drinks will be provided along the route for walkers. We encourage you to bring a picnic lunch, sit out on the lawn and cheer our walkers on!
  9. Can I walk at my own pace?
    • Yes! Our walkathon is designed to be accessible for all ages and a variety of fitness levels. You can walk at your own pace, whether you're there for fun, fitness, or fundraising. NOTE: The main route, which is along the perimeter of the Plano Baha’i Center property, includes grass lawn (which has some uneven surfaces and slight slopes), sidewalks and curbs.
  10. What about wheelchairs, walkers and strollers?
    • The Inclusive Paved Route is suitable for wheelchairs, walkers and strollers and includes sidewalks and ramps.
  11. Are pets allowed?
    • No. Please, NO PETS at this event.
  12. Is there a time limit to complete the walkathon?
    • The Walkathon officially begins at 9AM and ends at 12PM. Although we encourage walkers to start at 9AM, you may start walking anytime after 9AM and complete your walk by no later than 12PM.
  13. Will there be water stations along the route?
    • A water station and snack station at various points along the route will be provided. NOTE: This is a bottleless event. Water dispensers and paper cups will be provided. We encourage you to help us reduce plastic by bringing your own water bottle.
  14. What if I can’t complete the walk?
    • If you're unable to finish the walk for any reason, support stations or volunteers will be there to assist.
  15. Are there prizes for the fastest walkers?
    • No. Our focus is on the fundraising, environmental awareness and community-building aspect rather than competition.
  16. Can I volunteer at a walkathon?
    • Yes! We need volunteers to help in a variety of ways. Volunteering is a great way to get involved if you don’t wish to participate as a walker.
  17. What happens if it rains?
    • This is a rain-or-shine event, so it’s best to check the weather forecast and come prepared with rain gear if necessary. In the case of lightning or other weather not conducive to outdoor walking, the indoor exhibits will still be accessible for a fun, educational day!