McAlister Institute's Walk for Sobriety: A Community Celebration of Recovery
A joyful 5K walk that honors recovery, breaks stigma, and raises critical funds for addiction treatment in San Diego — for participants of all ages. Saturday, September 5, at Liberty Station.
Overview
Some events are about more than a morning out — they're about community, hope, and showing up for one another. The McAlister Institute's 14th Annual Walk for Sobriety is exactly that: a 5K charity walk/run that celebrates recovery from substance use disorders, honors those affected by addiction, and raises funds for life-saving treatment services across San Diego. It takes place Saturday, September 5, 2026, from 8 to 11 a.m. at the beautiful waterfront NTC Park at Liberty Station.
The theme says it all — step by step, together. It's a warm, family-friendly, community-centered celebration built to reduce stigma and bring help and hope to the thousands of individuals and families affected by addiction. Whether you're in recovery, walking for a loved one, or simply want to support a great local cause, everyone is welcome.
What You Actually Need to Know
- Event: McAlister Institute's 14th Annual Walk for Sobriety (a 5K walk/run)
- Date: Saturday, September 5, 2026, 8:00–11:00 a.m.
- Where: NTC Park at Liberty Station — 2455 Cushing Road, San Diego, CA 92106 (Point Loma)
- Registration: $35 for adults, $5 for children 12 and under (cash, credit, or check payable to McAlister Institute)
- For all ages: Family-friendly, with activities for kids
- Register: walkforsobriety.org
What to Expect
The morning is a celebration from start to finish. It opens with a short welcome from McAlister Institute's CEO and an emcee, followed by the 5K walk/run through the scenic NTC Park, USS Recruit, and Halsey Bridge area along the waterfront, and closes with a ceremony honoring participants and supporters.
Beyond the walk itself, there's plenty for everyone:
- A kids' zone with arts and crafts
- A silent auction and raffle prizes
- Games and activities for all ages
- Event T-shirts, available first come, first served
- A joyful, supportive community atmosphere throughout
Many participants walk in honor of their own recovery or a loved one's, often sharing the number of days they've been clean and sober — a moving reminder of what the day is really about.
About the Cause
The McAlister Institute is a San Diego nonprofit that has provided prevention and addiction-treatment services for decades, running 24 programs that deliver life-saving care to those who need it most. Since the Walk for Sobriety began in 2012, it's raised critical funds — and become a symbol of hope — for the recovery community across the county. Every registration and donation goes directly toward ensuring those services can continue.
Good to Know
- Register in advance at walkforsobriety.org to secure your spot (and, hopefully, a T-shirt)
- It's family-friendly — bring the kids for the arts, games, and community
- It's a beautiful, walkable setting — NTC Park's flat waterfront paths make the 5K accessible for all fitness levels
- Plan for parking — Liberty Station has ample lots, but arrive a bit early for a morning event of this size
- It falls on Labor Day weekend — an easy, meaningful way to start the long weekend with purpose
- Every dollar matters — proceeds fund real treatment and support services right here in San Diego
However you take part, the Walk for Sobriety is one of the most heartfelt community mornings on San Diego's calendar — a celebration of resilience, hope, and showing up for each other. For more happening around town, browse our full event calendar.
