Bethlehem Lutheran Fall Fest

Bethlehem Lutheran Fall Fest is a school fundraiser in Richland, Washington, featuring one-mile and 5k races along the river at Howard Amon Park. The event began in 2000, initiated by parents, teachers, and supporters of Bethlehem Lutheran School, and it now attracts hundreds of children and adults annually each fall. The races are integrated into a larger Fall Fest that includes bounce houses, games, and local food vendors, giving it the atmosphere of a school-community day rather than an event exclusively for runners. Registration fees for both distances are modest, and the fundraising goal is to support school improvements, such as a book vending machine and an updated library.