This Sunday, don’t just show up to run. Show up to take a stand.
The Upstander 5K & Family Day at Union Terminal blends movement with meaning. Yes, it’s a race—but it’s also a call to action. A day dedicated to community, courage, and connection, with hands-on activities, storytelling, and museum-wide programming designed to inspire Upstanders of all ages.
We’re proud to welcome Kathrine Switzer, running icon and trailblazer, as our special guest. In 1967, she became the first woman to officially run the Boston Marathon. This weekend, she’s joining us in Cincinnati to empower others to break barriers and speak out for what’s right.
Use promo code UPSTANDERFRIEND for 35% off your 5K registration.
After the race, stay for a full day of programming included with your registration—plus free admission to the Holocaust & Humanity Center, Cincinnati History Museum, and The Children’s Museum.
What You’ll Find Throughout the Day
Upstander Friendship Bracelets
10:30 AM – 1:30 PM | Rotunda, half wall
Design a bracelet that reflects what being an Upstander means to you, inspired by the friendship bracelet trend.
Meet & Greet Therapy Pets
11:00 AM – 1:00 PM | Rotunda
Meet therapy animals and learn how they support mental wellness and healing.
Mitzvah Button Making with Suzy Ultman
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM | Rotunda
Join illustrator Suzy Ultman to create your own mitzvah-themed button focused on acts of kindness.
Jacqueline and the Beanstalk
11:00 – 11:45 AM | The Children’s Theater
Enjoy a kid-friendly performance with an Upstander message at its heart.
Strengths Superheroes! Interactive Experience
10:30 AM – 2:00 PM | Mezzanine Level
Discover your strengths and explore how they can be used to stand up for others.
Za Za’s Superpower Story & Scent Science
10:30 – 11:15 AM | KidSPACE
A multisensory storytelling experience for kids that blends scent, emotion, and science.
Chat with the Curator: Upstanders in Cincinnati
11:30 AM – 2:30 PM | You Are Here Gallery
Learn about local individuals who took a stand and changed their communities.
Upstander Tour
12:00 – 1:00 PM | Holocaust & Humanity Center
Take a guided tour of our award-winning museum focused on lessons from the Holocaust and stories of Upstanders today.
Cincinnati Art Museum: Portraits
12:30 – 1:30 PM | KidSPACE
Create a portrait inspired by themes of empathy, identity, and resilience.
The Center for Storytelling
12:30 – 1:30 PM | STEM
Record a mini podcast or short story and explore the power of your voice.
Storytime with Joyce Kamen and Zahava Rendler
11:00 – 12:00 PM | HHC Lobby
Join author Joyce Kamen and Holocaust survivor Zahava Rendler for an hour of meaningful, mission-centered storytelling.
Jee Foods
10:00 AM – 2:00 PM | Pickleball Lot
Grab food from this student-led nonprofit addressing hunger and food waste.
Kayelin Tiggs: Live Music and Spoken Word
10:00 AM – 2:00 PM | Rotunda
Enjoy powerful music and poetry from Cincinnati artist and activist Kayelin Tiggs.
Be There
The Upstander 5K & Family Day is more than a run. It’s a chance to connect, reflect, and be part of something bigger. Register now and use code UPSTANDERFRIEND to save 35% on your entry. We can’t wait to see you there.
