The Eliza J. Norton Foundation (EJNF) will host its annual Celebrate with Heart Community Festival on Sunday, October 18, from noon to 3 p.m. at the Cochituate Ball Fields in Wayland. This year’s celebration will feature a new addition: the inaugural Run with Heart 5K and Kids’ Fun Run, beginning at 11 a.m. The family-friendly festival will offer an afternoon of activities, entertainment, and community spirit. Highlights include food trucks serving pizza, grilled cheese, lemonade, and cupcakes; soccer and hockey clinics; carnival games; inflatable obstacle courses; and bounce houses. Children can also enjoy slime making, face painting, hair braiding, temporary tattoos, a charm station, and a photo booth. KISS 108 DJ Mikey V will provide music and entertainment, while Wayland High School students will help organize and run many of the activities. The festival will also feature a dance performance by The Performing Arts Connection and a music demonstration area hosted by the Wayland School of Music. The Eliza J. Norton Foundation is dedicated to expanding opportunities for children and enriching their experiences in athletics, education, and beyond. Held in Eliza’s honor, Celebrate with Heart brings the community together while promoting teamwork, good sportsmanship, and self-confidence among children.
Run with Heart 5K and Kids’ Fun Run
For the first time, the foundation will kick off its annual festival with Run with Heart, a 5K road race and Kids’ Fun Run designed to bring participants of all ages and abilities together in support of the community. Whether running for a personal best, walking with friends, pushing a stroller, or simply joining in the fun, everyone is welcome. Police details will be stationed along the course to help ensure participant safety, and a water station will be available along the route. Race Details Date: Sunday, October 18, 2026 Registration: Begins at 9 a.m. Race Start: 11 a.m. Location: Cochituate Ball Fields, Wayland (start and finish) Adult Registration: $55 Student Registration: $20 (available through race day) Parking: Recommended at Wayland Town Beach or Wayland Middle School
To register for the race or learn more about the event, visit https://tinyurl.com/celebratewithheart. The festival and race offer an opportunity for families, neighbors, and friends to come together, celebrate Eliza’s legacy, and support the foundation’s mission of creating meaningful opportunities for children.
