Walktober

Celebrate Walking All Month Long

What is Walktober?

Walktober is a month-long celebration of walking, encouraging people of all ages to get outside, explore their communities, and enjoy the benefits of walking. Whether you're strolling through your neighborhood, hiking local trails, or walking to work or school, every step counts toward a healthier lifestyle.

Health Benefits of Walking

Boosts physical and mental well-being
Reduces stress and improves mood
Supports heart health and mobility

Experience Autumn in Mankato

Discover beautiful fall colors on local trails
Enjoy crisp autumn air and peaceful surroundings
Find new walking routes in your community

Connect with Your Community

Join guided group walks and special events
Walk with friends, family, or colleagues
Support walking as a sustainable form of transportation

2024 Schedule

Events are open to everyone!

Sept 30 thru Oct 6

WEEK WITHOUT DRIVING

Nationwide program to bring awareness to the challenges that

nondrivers face so we can build more accessible communities for all.

Oct4&5

SHADOWS AT THE CROSSING

Shadows at the Crossing: Spirits of Old Traverse des Sioux is an

immersive outdoor lantern-lit tour that brings history to life.*

OKTOBERFEST - New Ulm

Check out fall fun in New Ulm! Oktoberfest is the first two weekends in October,

and Southern Minnesota's Best Fall Festival is at Morgan Creek Vineyards.*

Oct5

PARTY ON THE PRAIRIE FESTIVAL

Join us at Benson Park between 2-7pm for live music, scarecrow walk, bounce

house, hayrides, and more! Free and hosted by North Mankato Taylor Library.

Oct6

BEST DAM PIE THANK YOU RIDE

A ride and walk hosted by Greater Mankato Bike & Walk Advocacy group to

honor past community contributions and support the Dam Store owners.*

Oct9

WALK TO SCHOOL DAY

National Walk to School Day encourages kids to get out and enjoy

exercise by walking to school.

Oct12

MY PACE MILE

Join us for the MY Pace Mile, a one-mile walk/run that is held at and

benefits Mankato Youth Place (MY Place).

MANKATO HISTORY FEST

Engage in a hands-on history lesson at the McGowan Farm in Mankato.*

Oct14

WILLIAMS NATURE CENTER WALK

The Greater Mankato Bike & Walk Advocacy group will host a walk starting

at 5:30 pm. Williams Nature Center - 54988 State Hwy 68, Mankato

Oct25

OLD TOWN MANKATO DAY OF THE DEAD

This free event celebrates the traditional sights and sounds of Dia de los Muertos

including costumes, mariachi bands, Aztec and folklore dancers,

original Latino art and ofrenda to honor the lives of the departed.

*Event may have associated costs.