A Raleigh-Durham community-led walk/run 5K and cultural event for aid to Palestine!

Saturday, May 18th

5K Walk/Run!
Race Starts at 11am
Kids run for free!
Culture Fest starts at 12pm

WakeMed Soccer Park
101 Soccer Park Dr
Cary, NC 27511

For more info check out our Race Day Guide

What is the Watermelon 5k Fest?

A community-led run/cultural event to raise aid and honor Palestinian resistance and humanity.

Inspired by watermelons, the global symbol of solidarity, participants are encouraged to embrace this motif in their attire or through creative displays, echoing the voices of those who support the right to return. This family-friendly event is more than just a race; it's a statement of unity, a celebration of culture, and a stride toward understanding and peace.

Join us for a powerful 5K walk/run that weaves through the heart of our community in solidarity with the Palestinian people. In a time when expressions of support and unity are more meaningful than ever, this event aims to bring together individuals to fill the space with the vibrant spirit and undying hope of the Palestinian cause.

What does the “Fest” mean?

We believe that joy is a form of resistance. This is not a celebration but a gathering of joyful defiance. By channeling the light of our community, we can raise awareness, compassion, and aid. So bring your light and shine it.

Where do the donations and entry fees go?

We aim to collect $25,000 through entry fees and donations. UPDATE: We have raised over $50,000!

All funds raised will be allocated to meet the urgent needs of individuals in Gaza, such as medical care, supplies, rehabilitation, and ensuring safety. We are focusing our efforts on providing essential support to mothers and children in Gaza and have chosen to partner with HEAL Palestine, an organization committed to offering Health, Education, Aid, and Leadership to enhance the future of young Palestinians in Gaza.

Our collaboration with HEAL Palestine's leadership will ensure transparency and share impactful stories with our supporters. We encourage you to participate in our initiative, whether by running, walking, attending in person, or offering remote support. Let's unite to make a significant impact!

More info here: HEAL Palestine Website

Supporters of a #Free Palestine

Our Local Heroes

Without these local business owners, our community wouldn’t be the same. Their contributions to The Watermelon 5K Fest covered all race costs, enabling 100% of the proceeds from donations and race entries to feed children in Gaza and build clean and safe maternity facilities for new and expecting mothers. We are forever grateful for their generosity and compassion.

Meet the Team

  • Karmel

    FOUNDER

  • Sarah

    MARKETING

  • Ahmad

    FUNDRAISING

  • Zeina

    OUTREACH

  • Senna

    OUTREACH

  • Noor

    RACE RELATIONS

  • Alaa

    RACE LOGISTICS

  • Sharif

    BRAND

  • Summer

    EVENT EXPERIENCE

  • Basil

    OUTREACH

Our Values

Unity & Togetherness

We dream together, we laugh together, and we support each other.

Positivity & Light

We see the strength in the face of adversity and the endless possibilities that love and community can bring into our lives and the world.

Learning & Growing

We explore the depths of Palestinian history and culture, not just to learn, but to connect, to grow, and to bridge the gaps that divided us in the past.

❤️

Run for a Free Palestine!

🇵🇸

Run. Walk. Cheer. Leave with a smile and a T-Shirt

Run. Walk. Cheer. Leave with a smile and a T-Shirt

Every Watermelon 5K entrant will get this shirt to mark their contribution to the Palestinian cause. Hurry! The race entry increases to $35 after May 4th!
#Free Palestine!

Help spread the word!

Contribute to the cause:

We need your help spreading the word! Print and hang this flyer wherever you can. Please ask for permission.

Download Flyer here

Contact us