2nd Annual DS Awareness Walk
Saturday, October 17, 2026 · Atascadero Lake Park
- Date
- Saturday, October 17, 2026
- Time
- 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM
- Walk begins at 11:00 AM
- Location
- Atascadero Lake Park
- 9305 Pismo Ave, Atascadero, CA 93422
- Meet at BBQ Area #1, near the zoo entrance
- Cost
- Free
- All ages welcome
About the Walk
A free community event to spread joy and awareness, created by Melissa Rasmussen and the Central Coast DS Group. Melissa first started this small group of parents to build community and a support network, and it quickly grew into an annual walk with over 150 attendees. This is our second annual walk and we are so excited!
What to Expect
A group walk around Atascadero Lake starting at the park next to the Atascadero Zoo. Make a personalized sign to carry during the walk, learn about community resources, and enjoy fun activities for the whole family.
Make a Sign to Carry
Arrive before the walk starts at 11:00 AM so you have time to make and decorate your sign. Each participant with Down syndrome is encouraged to create a sign with their family celebrating their greatest accomplishment this year, so we can all cheer for them along the way.
Sign-making supplies will be provided at the event if you plan to make yours on the day.
Schedule
- 10:00 AM
Event Starts
- Sign the activity waiver on site
- Make and decorate your sign
- Group warm-up
- 11:00 AM
Walk Around the Lake
- Group walk around Atascadero Lake starting from the park next to the zoo
- 12:00 to 3:00 PM
The Fun Continues
- DJ music and dancing
- Activities, including sensory bins
- Picnic lunch (bring your own food and water)
- Time to meet other community members
- 3:00 PM
Event Ends
- Thank you for walking with us!
What to Bring
- ✓Water
- ✓Sunscreen and a hat
- ✓Picnic blanket or chairs
- ✓Snacks and lunch
- ✓Walking shoes
- ✓Your loved ones!
See You at the Lake
Questions? Email us at centralcoastdsawareness@gmail.com