The SEED School of Maryland (SEED MD), the state’s first and only public, college-preparatory boarding school serving high-need, high-potential students, will host the fifth annual Run-Up-To Juneteenth 5K Run and 1-Mile Walk on Sunday, June 14 at 9 a.m. at Druid Hill Park.

Baltimore City leaders have declared the Run the official kickoff to the city’s AFRAM Festival, which celebrates its 50th anniversary on June 19-21 of this year. The festival will feature an expanded Health & Wellness Village this year promoting the well-being of Baltimore residents, making the Run-Up-To Juneteenth the perfect way to begin the celebration.
AFRAM’s golden anniversary marks a major milestone celebrating Baltimore’s culture, history, and community spirit. The Run’s return to the AFRAM itinerary also honors the festival’s early days, when community runs were part of the original programming—reviving a tradition that helped shape AFRAM during its early years.
In honor of AFRAM’s founding in 1976, Run Up to Juneteenth participants are encouraged to embrace the era’s spirit with 1976-inspired throwback outfits—tube socks, headbands, short shorts, and retro running gear. A prize will be awarded for the Best 1976 Throwback Outfit.
More than 500 participants, including SEED students and supporters from across the region, are expected to attend. The event route will feature an out-and-back course through Druid Hill Park, with music, community engagement, giveaways, and an awards ceremony taking place afterward at the event’s Celebration Village.