There will be lots of walkers at Woodland Park Zoo on October 12, many of them there to celebrate the region’s Down Syndrome community.
That’s the day of Down Syndrome Center of Puget Sound’s will hold its annual Buddy Walk, the local version of the national Buddy Walk® initiative, and open to all those who want to get out and walk on behalf of people with Down Syndrome.
Besides offering participants a free stroll through the zoo, the walk aims to:
- Raise awareness and promote inclusion. The Buddy Walk promotes acceptance, inclusion and respect for kids and adults with Down Syndrom.
- Celebrate community and Connection: It’s an opportunity for families, friends, support networks, and the wider community gather and stand in solidarity.
- Support essential programs. Funds raised by individual walkers and walking teams help power Down Syndrome Center of Puget Sound’s wide range of offerings—from educational programs and support for kids, teens, adults and while families to advocacy, resources, and outreach services. The event is the one of the center’s largest events and annually brings out thousands of supporters.
The details:
Date & Time: Sunday, October 12, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Location: Woodland Park Zoo, 5500 Phinney Ave N, Seattle, WA 98103
Free Admission: Walk organizers hope that many participants will join fundraising teams, but attending the Buddy Walk is free and includes access to Woodland Park Zoo.
Fundraising: While participation is encouraged, fundraising is optional. You can donate or join or start a team during online registration.
Registration: Now open—interested participants are encouraged to sign up to join the day’s festivities. Registration is required.
