Historic Veterans Day Weekend celebration at DCR Castle Island honors America’s 250th anniversary, marks sixth consecutive sellout, and raises more than $75,000 to support Massachusetts veterans
BOSTON, MA – November 7, 2026 – The Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Department of Massachusetts and TRACS, Inc. celebrated the 11th Annual DAV 5K Boston at historic DCR Fort Independence on Castle Island, kicking off Veterans Day Weekend with a patriotic tribute to Massachusetts veterans during America’s 250th anniversary year.
Welcoming 1,500 registered participants, including 415 veterans, to the shores of historic Boston Harbor, the DAV 5K Boston honored generations of Americans who have defended our nation’s freedom and celebrated DAV’s enduring commitment to those who have served.
“As we celebrate 250 years of American freedom, there is no place more fitting to gather than historic DCR Fort Independence,” said Dan Stack, CEO of DAV Department of Massachusetts. “For generations, DAV has empowered those who served, and the DAV 5K Boston stands as a powerful testament to that mission. We extend our deepest gratitude to our participants, partners, volunteers, and above all, our veterans, whose sacrifices have safeguarded 250 years of American liberty.”
The 2026 edition marked another milestone in DAV 5K Boston history. Selling out on August 17, a remarkable 82 days before race day, the event recorded its fastest sellout ever and sixth consecutive sold-out race. Demonstrating the community’s unwavering support for Massachusetts veterans, 54% of registrants were returning participants.
Carrying the spirit of America 250 into Veterans Day Weekend, the DAV 5K Boston celebrated Massachusetts history and pride at one of Boston’s largest Veterans Day Weekend events. From Massachusetts-made medals featuring DCR Fort Independence and ceremonial volleys signaling the start of each wave to a post-race feast featuring local restaurants and scenic views of Boston Harbor, the event showcased the Commonwealth’s rich heritage while honoring those who have served our nation. New for 2026, Harpoon Brewery hosted the official DAV 5K Boston After Party at the Harpoon Seaport Beer Hall, bringing participants together to continue the celebration.
“Our Massachusetts veterans deserve a family-friendly, community-centered Veterans Day Weekend event that truly honors their service,” said Fred Treseler, CEO of TRACS and Race Director of the DAV 5K Boston. “Creating a meaningful experience rooted in our local and national history is one way we can show our veterans how much their service and sacrifice mean to us. Thank you to our incredible race committee, partners, volunteers, participants, supporters, and most importantly, our veterans, who carry forward the legacy of the DAV 5K Boston year after year.”
As America’s 250th anniversary year draws to a close, the DAV 5K Boston serves as a powerful reminder that honoring our nation’s history also means supporting those who have defended its freedoms. More than $75,000 was raised for DAV Massachusetts through the generosity and fundraising efforts of race participants and supporters. These contributions support essential programs and services for disabled veterans and their families throughout the Commonwealth, including housing assistance, benefits advocacy, transportation to medical appointments, and direct assistance during times of need.
Building on a historic 2026 celebration, the DAV 5K Boston team is already looking ahead to 2027, continuing its proud tradition of bringing the Massachusetts community together to honor, celebrate, and support those who have served. The 12th Annual DAV 5K Boston is scheduled for Saturday, November 6, 2027, with early access registration now available at dav5k.boston.
About Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Department of Massachusetts
DAV is dedicated to a single purpose: empowering veterans to lead high-quality lives with respect and dignity. DAV accomplishes this by ensuring veterans and their families can access the full range of benefits available to them; advocating for America’s injured heroes on Capitol Hill and at the Massachusetts State House; and educating the public about the sacrifices and needs of veterans transitioning to civilian life. Our veterans need your support. For more information, visit davma.org.
About TRACS, Inc.
TRACS is a sports marketing firm focused on helping organizations around the globe strategically design, build, and manage branded engagements that inspire people and deliver results for partners and participants alike. Based in Boston and specializing in the running industry, TRACS has been putting organizations first for more than 40 years. The TRACS team has partnered with the DAV 5K Boston since 2019. For race inquiries, including sponsorship opportunities, please email events@tracs.net.