San Antonio Gears Up for Unique 5K ‘Caminata’ Celebrating Local History
San Antonio is buzzing with excitement as this weekend marks the first-ever 5K “Caminata”, a special event designed to celebrate the rich history of our beautiful city. Hosted by the Bexar County Historical Commission, this event commemorates the 20th anniversary of the “Camino Real de los Tejas” being recognized as a National Historic Trail. It’s not just a run or walk; it’s an invitation to explore, learn, and have fun!
Event Details
The Caminata is set to kick off at 9 a.m. on Saturday morning at the Spanish Governor’s Palace. You won’t have to worry about entry fees, as participation is free! Just bring your enthusiasm and a sense of adventure. As a cool add-on, every participant will be given a commemorative passport that will guide them to various historic sites along the Camino Real as they stroll through downtown San Antonio.
Discovering History
One of the primary goals of this event is to spotlight those under-told stories of our past. Belinda Mora Gavallos, Chair of the Bexar County Historical Commission, emphasizes the importance of taking a good look at historical markers. “By stopping at each one of these historical markers and being able to really look at where they live and take it for a different look at it in a different way so that they can see this is a really interesting place and history is fun,” she noted.
Dr. Erika Arredondo-Haskins, another member of the commission, shared how the planning team carefully walked through various areas to select sites that might be overlooked. “The purpose of it is to take participants around to historical markers and events that are under-told stories,” she explained, highlighting the opportunity for everyone, especially younger generations, to engage with our local history.
Incentives for Early Birds
For those who love a little competition, get out your walking shoes early! The first 250 participants who arrive at the event will receive a limited edition “El Camino Real Day 2024” medal. It’s sure to be a charming addition to anyone’s collection and a great incentive to start your weekend with a fun and healthy activity!
A Call to the Community
This 5K walk isn’t just an activity; it’s a wonderful chance for families, friends, and individuals alike to come together and appreciate the history that surrounds us. By taking part in the Caminata, participants are not only encouraging their own knowledge of the past but also fostering a sense of community and shared history that binds us together as San Antonians.
So whether you’re a seasoned runner, an occasional walker, or just someone looking to have a great Saturday morning, this event is perfect for you. Enjoy the outdoors, meet new people, and discover fascinating stories that make San Antonio the vibrant city it is today. Don’t miss your chance to be a part of this historic walk; we hope to see you at the starting line!
