Oct 18, 2026

Every Step. Every Voice. Every Buddy Belongs.

Since 1996, the San Diego Buddy Walk has brought together families, friends, advocates, and community, to celebrate individuals with Down syndrome while welcoming and embracing people of all disabilities.

About the Buddy Walk

The Down Syndrome Association of San Diego is proud to host this family-friendly event that welcomes everyone. This year we are partnering with the Exceptional Family Resource Center to raise funds to support individuals with Down syndrome and all disabilities. Our goal is to improve quality of life, promote independence and inclusion, and help the community navigate complex education and disability services.

The Buddy Walk® was founded in 1995 by the National Down Syndrome Society as the premier advocacy event for Down syndrome in the United States. It's also the world’s most widely recognized public awareness program for the Down syndrome community. The Buddy Walk® attracts thousands of participants in cities from coast to coast each year.

San Diego Buddy Walk – 30 Years Strong

To Inclusion and Beyond! This year's theme is Toy Story because it was a hit movie in 1996, when we launched the Buddy Walk in San Diego. In line with the movie's message, we believe that everyone belongs, everyone has unique gifts to share, and no one should ever be left behind. Whether you're walking in support of a loved one, volunteering, or joining us for the first time, you are part of a movement that promotes acceptance, friendship, opportunity, and belonging for all.

Oct 18, 2026

1 to 4 p.m.

De Anza Cove Park, Mission Bay

San Diego, CA, US, 92109

Get Directions

Get Started!

1. Sign Up

Click the REGISTER button above to register online and select your desired registration option(s). All participants need to accept the terms and conditions of the waiver before completing the registration form.

After adding your first registration, you can add more registrations for friends and family before completing your order. The registration fee includes refreshments, a resource fair, Toy Lab multisensory experience, games, and music & dancing (of course)!

2. Create Your Online Fundraising Page

During registration, you'll be able to create a personal fundraising page. Fundraising is optional but highly encouraged. If you don't want to create a fundraising page, you can select "Opt out of fundraising" when prompted to skip that step.

For those fundraising, feel free to customize your team page and personal fundraising page by sharing your story and reason for walking on your page's description, and adding a personal photo!

3. Spread the Word!

Once you've personalized your fundraising page, it's time to get the word out and ask your circle to donate and join your team! You can share your team's page with your network via personalized emails inviting them to support you.

Don't forget to get social! We encourage you to post updates on your personal page as a fun and simple way to share your story with your donors and get your network involved!