The following is a press release from Wilton Pride and Wilton Library.

Wilton Pride and Wilton Library announced they will co-host the inaugural Come Out and Run 5K on Sunday, Sept. 15, in Wilton, in order to “celebrate pride, diversity, inclusivity, and the spirit of unity in honor of National Coming Out Day in October,” according to a press release from both organizations.

All are welcome to join what organizers said will be “part 5K and part community party,” and describing it as “community-wide, family-friendly event fostering camaraderie, empowerment, and support for our LGBTQ+ community members and allies.” The event will feature music, festivities, food, prizes and more.

“Come Out & Run is truly a community collaboration! We envision this event to become a Wilton tradition celebrating our town and all of our residents. The 5K has brought many people together right from the start. We are grateful that so many Wilton businesses and nonprofits are sponsoring and supporting the event – especially Wilton Library for hosting the 5K with Wilton Pride. This event promises to be a community celebration,” Wilton Pride founder Farah Masani said.

“We are honored to work with Wilton Pride and many other community partners on this new event for Wilton, which demonstrates our joint commitment to creating a safe and welcoming environment,” Wilton Library Executive Director Caroline Mandler said. “We invite all to join us on Sept. 15, whether you participate in the 5K, or just come by to support!”

Registration is open online. Runners, walkers, kids, strollers and leashed dogs are all able to participate. The registration fee is $25 per person for ages 10 and older. Kids under 10 can participate for free. All participants will receive a cotton t-shirt plus access to digital photos, event festivities and more.

The 5K will start at 9 a.m. at the Wilton Town Green (101 Old Ridgefield Rd.) in Wilton Center. All schedule details and key information are outlined on the event website.

Prizes will be awarded to the top three overall runners, featuring gift baskets from local sponsors.

  • 1st Prize: Ridgefield Running Company Swag and $25 Ridgefield Running Company Gift Card
  • 2nd Prize: Wilton Celebration Basket including swag from Rise Doughnuts, Classically Cate, Blue Star Bazaar and $15 Ridgefield Running Company Gift Card
  • 3rd Prize: Wilton Farmers’ Market Basket and $10 Ridgefield Running Company Gift Card

Participants will also be able to take part in the Pride Best Dressed Contest with $15 Ridgefield Running Company Gift Cards awarded for Best Embodiment of Pride, Best Use of Color, and Most Creative Use of Flair.

The Come Out & Run 5K is made possible in part by the generous support of community partners and sponsors ASML, Burn Boot Camp, GOOD Morning Wilton, Mecha, Ridgefield Running Company, Riverbrook Regional YMCA, Wilton Chamber of Commerce, Wilton Historical Society and Wilton Youth Council. The logo was designed by Wilton resident Michelle Shia, and shirts are being printed by Wilton business @szeizetheday,

GOOD Morning Wilton is the media sponsor of the Come Out & Run 5K.