Some Mississippi traditions are built on competition. Others are built on community. And then there are the special ones—like Biloxi’s annual Arbor Day Run—that manage to do both while making room for everyone along the way.
On Saturday, February 28, the 38th Annual Arbor Day 5K and ¼-Mile Disability Run/Walk/Roll will return to Point Cadet Park in Biloxi, welcoming runners, walkers, rollers, families, and friends of all abilities to one of the Coast’s most meaningful outdoor events. Held at 121 Cadet Street, the event draws around 500 participants each year, and the heart of it has always been inclusion.
Anyone who has spent a Saturday morning at Point Cadet Park can picture the scene—cool air off the water, families unloading strollers and folding chairs, runners stretching along the sidewalk, and volunteers greeting participants by name. It’s a setting that feels distinctly Coast-grown, and one that fits the spirit of this event well.
This long-running tradition is a partnership between the Gulf Coast Running Club—the most respected running club in South Mississippi—Disability Connection, and the City of Biloxi. Together, they’ve created an event that goes beyond finish lines and times, focusing instead on something far more important: making sure everyone has a place to participate.
From seasoned runners to first-timers, from walkers to those using racing wheelchairs, the Arbor Day Run is intentionally designed so no one is left on the sidelines. The ¼-mile course ensures that individuals of all abilities, including wheelchair users, can experience the joy and health benefits of a run. And for participants who face challenges to running, every finisher receives a medal, a simple but meaningful reminder that effort matters more than pace.
The morning begins with registration at 8:00 a.m., followed by the 5K at 9:00 a.m. and the ¼-mile run at 9:45 a.m.The registration fee is $25, with early discounted registration of $22 available through February 19 at www.GulfCoastRunningClub.org. All participants receive a t-shirt, and free trees will be available while supplies last—a fitting Arbor Day touch.
Beyond the race itself, the event feels more like a community gathering than a competition. Families are encouraged to stay and enjoy basketball and soccer activities with MS Coast Special Needs Soccer, extending the morning into a shared celebration of movement, connection, and fun.
Events like this matter—especially in Mississippi, where health outcomes remain a challenge. The Arbor Day Run has two clear goals: to encourage healthy lifestyles and to ensure people with disabilities are active, visible participants in community life. It’s not about separate events or special lanes—it’s about neighbors showing up together and sharing the same experience.
Proceeds from the event directly support Disability Connection’s programs and events, which work year-round to strengthen South Mississippi through social support, barrier-free opportunities, and inclusive community programming. Their mission captures it simply and well: “Creating a connected community to provide social support, eliminate barriers, and ensure healthy futures.”
Those curious to see the impact firsthand can visit www.DisabilityConnection.org to watch a video from a previous year’s event, where smiles, high-fives, and rolling wheels tell the story better than words ever could.
This Arbor Day, Biloxi isn’t just planting trees—it’s continuing a tradition rooted in inclusion, movement, and community. And that’s something worth showing up for.
