Walk to End Alzheimer’s Brings Community Together at Ocean Beach Park in New London

Walk to End Alzheimer’s Brings Community Together at Ocean Beach Park in New London on Sunday, October 11, as families, friends and supporters gather to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Originally scheduled for September 26, the Eastern Connecticut event was postponed because of severe weather and will now take place along New London’s waterfront.

Organized by the Alzheimer’s Association, the annual walk brings together people affected by Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, including caregivers, families honoring loved ones and community members supporting efforts to find better treatments and ultimately a cure.

The event opens at 9 a.m., followed by an opening ceremony at 10 a.m. Participants will begin the approximately two-mile walk at 10:30 a.m.

Walking for Families, Caregivers and a Cure

The Walk to End Alzheimer’s is the Alzheimer’s Association’s largest annual fundraising initiative, bringing communities together across the country. Donations support research into Alzheimer’s disease, as well as programs that provide education, resources and assistance to people living with dementia and those caring for them.

A meaningful part of the event is the Promise Garden, where participants carry colorful flowers representing their personal connections to the disease. The flowers recognize people living with Alzheimer’s, caregivers, those who have lost loved ones and supporters working toward a future without the disease.

The Eastern Connecticut walk provides an opportunity for people to share their experiences, remember family members and connect with others facing similar challenges. Participants can register individually, join an existing team or organize a group of family members, friends or coworkers.

A Waterfront Walk With a Purpose

Ocean Beach Park provides a scenic setting for the community gathering, with views of Long Island Sound and space for participants to come together before the walk.

The event is designed as a community fundraiser rather than a competitive race, welcoming people of different ages and walking abilities. Those unable to attend can still support the effort through donations or by contributing to a registered fundraising team.

With the event now scheduled for October 11, organizers encourage participants to check the official event website for updated information before heading to Ocean Beach Park.

More information is available at the Event Website link below. To register or make a donation, visit the Event Registration link below.

Details

Event: 2026 Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Eastern Connecticut
Date: Sunday, October 11, 2026
Original Date: September 26, 2026; rescheduled because of severe weather
Event Opens: 9 a.m.
Opening Ceremony: 10 a.m.
Walk Begins: 10:30 a.m.
Distance: Approximately 2 miles
Venue: Ocean Beach Park
Address: 98 Neptune Avenue, New London, CT 06320
Admission: No registration fee; fundraising and donations encouraged
Organizer: Alzheimer’s Association
Activities: Community walk, opening ceremony, Promise Garden and fundraising
Parking: Ocean Beach Park parking; check event instructions for any special arrangements
What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing and water
Weather: Event rescheduled from September 26; check the official website for further updates
Accessibility: Contact organizers for route and accommodation information
Alzheimer’s Association Helpline: 800-272-3900

Featured image is an artistic representation inspired by the event and may not depict the actual people, location, or activities shown.