Lace up your shoes for the inspiring Autism Acceptance Festival and 5K, taking place on May 16, 2026, in scenic Kiroli Park, West Monroe, LA. This cherished annual event, now in its fifth year, offers both a 5K race and a 1-mile fun run/walk, inviting participants of all ages and abilities to join in a celebration of neurodiversity and community spirit.

The course for both distances is set entirely on the paved roads within Kiroli Park, ensuring a smooth and accessible experience for all runners and walkers. You can expect a relatively flat journey through the park's welcoming scenery, free from challenging trails. As you push towards the finish line, you'll find ample support with water stations conveniently located along the route, and a rewarding spread of additional water and snacks awaiting you at the finish area. Typical race day conditions in mid-May for West Monroe often bring highs around 85F and lows near 63F, with a slight 14% chance of precipitation, making for a warm but often pleasant run.

More than just a race, this event is a vibrant Autism Acceptance Festival, kicking off with the 5K at 8:30 AM and the Fun Run around 9:00 AM. It's a fantastic opportunity to support the Autism Society of North Louisiana, with the festival serving as their largest annual fundraiser to provide vital free and low-cost services to the local Autism community. Beyond the runs, the festival atmosphere at Kiroli Park features activity booths, jumpers, food trucks, and inflatable slides, creating a day packed with family fun, community resources, and a powerful message of inclusion and acceptance for everyone.