Walktober 2026
Join the Howard County Local Health Improvement Coalition (LHIC) and local partners for a month of walk and move events called Howard County Walktober. Walking is Maryland's official exercise, so let's get moving! Find more information about the LHIC.
If you plan to host a walk event and would like to add it to the Howard County Walktober Calendar Events page, please fill out the Walktober 2026 Interest Form.
Please note that the LHIC will not be hosting these events, but is promoting partner walk/move events to the community. If you are interested in collaborating with the organizers of one or more of the events on HoCo’s Walktober page, please reach out to the organizers directly.
Walk, Roll, Ride, Move! Howard County, MD.
Upcoming Events
Thursday, October 1, 11:00am (Bain 50+ Center) Falls Prevention Field Day
- Join us for a fun, interactive Falls Prevention Field Day. This event will focus on improving balance, strength, mobility, and confidence through a variety of balance challenging stations and functional fitness activities to help reduce fall risk. Whether you are looking to stay active, improve your balance, or learn practical tips for preventing falls, this event will be supportive and enjoyable event for all fitness levels. Find more information on the event webpage.
Saturday, October 3, 9:00am (Centennial Park) Walk with a Doc
- Walk with a Doc is a walking program for everyone interested in taking steps for a healthier lifestyle. You’ll take a few minutes to learn about a current health topic from a healthcare professional, then spend the rest of the hour enjoying a healthy walk and fun conversation. It’s a great way to get out, get active, and enjoy all the benefits that come from walking. Walk your own pace and distance. This program was started in Columbus, OH in April of 2005 by Dr. David Sabgir and has now expanded throughout the world. You don’t need any special gear and there are no special rules. Our walking groups are a safe, fun, and FREE place to get some steps, learn about health, and meet new friends. Learn more about joining this walking group.
Saturday, October 3, 9:00am (Lake Kittamaqundi) Sneakers and Coffee with the Village in Howard
Saturday, October 3, 11:00am (Oakland Mills Village Center) Oakland Mills Community Fall Festival
- Community Fall Festival with live performances outside in the courtyard, dance classes at The Barn, and a "Let's Walk Around Oakland Mills" information table. More information is available on the Oakland Mills website.
Monday, October 5, 9:00am (Lake Elkhorn) Monday Morning Meanderings with the Village in Howard
Tuesday, October 6, 11:00am (Blandair Regional Park North) Encore Showcase
- It’s Active Aging Week. Come celebrate with free activities geared toward keeping your mind and body active! Enjoy mini fitness sessions, quick art projects, and giveaways. You’ll also have a chance to try your hand at bocce and archery. Join us at Blandair Regional Park North (near the croquet lawn). Find more information on the event webpage.
Thursday, October 8, 10:00am (North Laurel 50+ Center) Intergenerational Walk
- Let’s get moving and celebrate Active Aging Week in the most heartwarming way—by teaming up with our adorable preschoolers for a fun and energizing Walktober stroll! Join us for a joyful intergenerational walk where laughter, connection, and light exercise come together. Whether we’re soaking up the fresh air outside or taking laps on North Laurel’s indoor track (weather permitting), this will be a feel-good event you won’t want to miss! Let’s walk, talk, and make memories, one step at a time! For more information, please call the 50+ Center Front Desk regarding availability at 410-313-0380 or visit the event webpage.
Saturday, October 10, 9:00am (Lake Kittamaqundi) Sneakers and Coffee with the Village in Howard
Monday, October 12, 9:00am (Lake Elkhorn) Monday Morning Meanderings with the Village in Howard
Wednesday, October 14, 9:00am (Elkridge 50+ Center) Wednesday Walking Group
- Enjoy the beauty of autumn with a refreshing walk alongside friends! Join Shelly for our annual Walk Maryland Day and celebrate the season while staying active. Walking is a wonderful way to improve your health, connect with others, and enjoy the outdoors. After the walk, return to the Center to relax and enjoy light refreshments with fellow participants. For information/register please call the Elkridge 50+ Center at 410-313-5192 or visit the event webpage.
Saturday, October 17, 9:00am (Lake Kittamaqundi) Sneakers and Coffee with the Village in Howard
Monday, October 19, 9:00am (Lake Elkhorn) Monday Morning Meanderings with the Village in Howard
Saturday, October 24, 9:00am (Lake Kittamaqundi) Sneakers and Coffee with the Village in Howard
Monday, October 26, 9:00am (Lake Elkhorn) Monday Morning Meanderings with the Village in Howard
Thursday, October 29, 11:00am (Bain 50+ Center/Harper's Choice Middle) Intergenerational Walk
- 50+ participants will join middle school students for a walk together and intergenerational conversations. In the event of rain, there will be a "Movement Party" in the gym at Harper's Choice Middle.
Saturday, October 31, 9:00am (Lake Kittamaqundi) Sneakers and Coffee with the Village in Howard
Cedar Lane-West
Centennial Park
High Ridge Park
Meadowbrook Park
North Laurel Park
Robinson Nature Center
Rockburn Branch Park
Schooley Mill Park
Warfield Pond Park
Western Regional Park
Wilde Lake Park
* Created by HCHD in collaboration with HC Dept. of Recreation and Parks in August 2021
Take advantage of Columbia Association's pathways during the month of Walktober (October 2023): All month long, the community is encouraged to explore over 95 miles of pathways. You can access more than 170 tot lots, nearly 300 footbridges, three lakes and more. Whether you walk, bike, jog or roll, CA's pathways are open to everyone! So what are you waiting for? Walk. Breathe. Explore.