The annual and ever-popular in-park 5K fundraiser “CHOC Walk in the Park,” presented by Disneyland Resort, returns Sunday, Aug. 3, 2025, to raise funds for Children’s Hospital of Orange County (CHOC). Now part of Rady Children’s Health, a premier pediatric healthcare system in Southern California, CHOC is dedicated to providing innovative and exceptional care to children regardless of their family’s ability to pay.
At sun-up, enthusiastic walkers will begin a roughly three-mile course, winding through Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park, encountering fun and whimsical surprises before the parks open to the public. The 2024 CHOC Walk in the Park welcomed over 6,500 participants on 350 teams and raised over $2.3 million for children’s health and well-being.
Here are 6 reasons why
1. You’re Walking for a Real Cause
CHOC stands for Children’s Hospital of Orange County, and the walk is all about raising funds to support kids battling serious illnesses. Every step helps fund research, life-saving treatments, and support services for families. It’s feel-good energy all around.
2. You Get to Walk Through Disneyland
Yep—before it opens to the public. Imagine Main Street USA all quiet and dreamy in the early morning light, just you and fellow walkers soaking in the Disney magic without the crowds.
3. You’re Cheered On by Disney Characters
Mickey, Minnie, Goofy—everyone’s out in full force, cheering you on from the sidelines. It’s not just a walk, it’s a whole Disney-fied experience.
4. The Vibes Are Immaculate
People show up in team shirts, costumes, with signs and balloons—it’s super festive and full of heart. Whether you’re walking in memory of someone or just supporting the cause, it’s hard not to get swept up in the energy.
5. It’s Family-Friendly
All ages, all speeds. You don’t have to be a marathon runner—grandparents, toddlers, strollers, you name it. Everyone’s welcome.
6. You’re Part of Something Big
Over the years, it’s raised millions of dollars for pediatric care. You’re walking with thousands of others who care just as much. It’s community, love, and a good cause wrapped in pixie dust.
Want to go this year? Or just curious about how to join in?
Who is the CHOC Walk Ambassador This Year?
The 2025 CHOC Walk Ambassador is Belle Wuich, a courageous young cancer survivor whose journey has inspired the CHOC community. In September 2024, Belle celebrated a significant milestone by ringing the bell at Children’s Hospital of Orange County (CHOC), marking the completion of her cancer treatment. Her battle included overcoming two cancerous tumors, undergoing emergency surgery, receiving blood transfusions, and enduring chemotherapy. Belle’s resilience and the unwavering support from her family and the CHOC care team have made her a symbol of hope and strength.
As the 2025 CHOC Walk Ambassador, Belle will lead the walk on Sunday, August 3, 2025, at the Disneyland® Resort, representing her team, Belle’s Brigade. Her story highlights the profound impact of community support and the vital role CHOC plays in the lives of children and their families.
For a closer look at Belle’s inspiring journey, you can watch this video shared by the CHOC Foundation:
“A cancer diagnosis turns life upside down,” says Trish, Belle’s mom. “It’s a domino that starts a chain of events that touches every area of your life and is an emotional roller coaster for the whole family.” They took the journey one day at a time.
Event information, registration specifics, and information on joining or forming a team can be found at www.chocwalk.org. Real-time event information can also be found via “Choc Walk” on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. The social media hashtag is #chocwalk
Why We Walk
How to Fundraise
Here is a great tool kit that can help you through the fundraising process.
2019 CHOC Walk Fundraiser Tool KitDo you walk? I would love to hear all of the reasons you walk the choc walk. I love seeing all of the happy kids and parents and supporters that rally around them. It’s inspiring, heart warming and makes you feel warm and tingly all over. Plus you get to see all of your favorite Disney characters. The cheerleaders also make the walk special as well. So what are you waiting for? Join us on the walk!
Tips for CHOC Walk Day
CHOC walk has a VERY early start time. Here are some tips to make your day go smoothly.
I don’t know of anybody at the choc but I love to show support to all the little kiddies that are at the choc.
I don’t know anyone. My daughter and I want to join the CHOC walk to support the children at the CHOC hospital.
I do not know any patients at CHOC. I however love CHOC and I support them 100%.
Yes, my ex cowrker’s son was a 26 week preemie. He stayed at CHOC for months and they were able to help him survive.
Amazing opportunity for a great cause