Needham2Arlington Community Walk 2026

Do you want to help SPONSOR this event? Sponsor’s logos are printed on the event T-shirt, and Sponsors also receive a free ticket for the event. DETAILS HERE!

April 18, 2026
8:45 am – Walkers step off from Townsend Green, at the intersection of Nehoiden Street and Central Avenue.

251 years ago, Needham residents helped repel British attacks on Lexington and Concord on April 19, 1775. The Needham Militia’s 13.1 mile march to join the battle started at the Townsend Green (Nehoiden and Central Ave) and ended in Arlington by the Jason Russell House (which still stands at 7 Jason Street). The fighting in Arlington was some of the heaviest of the day, and five of Needham’s own gave their lives in the first battle to create our nation.

For those up to the challenge, lace up your sneakers and join your fellow residents on Saturday, April 18, as we walk the 13.1 mile route from Needham to Arlington. Follow in the footsteps of the Needham militia, retracing the actual route that they took on their way to Lexington.

WALK the ROUTE:  The 13.1 mile route from Needham to Arlington passes through Needham, Wellesley, Newton, Watertown, Belmont, and Arlington. Assuming a roughly 25 minute/mile pace, walkers will leave at 8:45 am and should arrive at the Jason Russell House around 3:00 pm. Water/rest stops and sweep car provided. At our destination, we will tour the Jason Russell House with its many musket ball strikes, commemorate the sacrifice our fellow townspeople made, and enjoy a packed lunch.

The Registration fee for this event is $30.  The fee includes the lunch, tour, and event T-shirt. Proceeds will help support the Needham History Center & Museum.

PLEASE NOTE:  The bus option is no longer available.

Registration is required.  To register:

1. The fee is $30. Participants receive lunch, the tour, and the T-shirt.
2. Compete and sign the Registration and Disclaimer Form (HERE) and email it to Gloria at gr***@************ry.org
3. Pay the Walk fee (entered as a Ticket, below)

**** PLEASE NOTE: The Needham2Arlington Walk is a community event. As required by the nonprofit status of the Needham History Center & Museum and the Arlington Historical Society, and at the request of the Police Departments of the towns we will be crossing, there will be NO political or partisan activity at this event. This includes wearing uniforms (historic or current), carrying signs or banners, or any other form of representation. Participants who do not abide by this restriction will not be allowed to participate. ****