FAQs
Because the Giving Gallop is not your typical holiday run, we figured it might help to address and answer some of the common questions we get:
IS THIS A RACE?
No, this is not a race. Think of this as a long, slow training run or casual walk with friends. It is the perfect Zone 2 run / walk to get some milage in for those who are training for that next half, or even Boston in April!!!
HOW DO THE GIFT CARDS WORK? WHAT SORT OF GIFT CARDS SHOULD I BUY AND BRING?
We encourage all runners to purchase a minimum of $25 dollars in gift cards but highly encourage you to buy as much as you can afford to hand out. The cards can be from any business, but we suggest you think about gift cards that anyone you pass on the street could use or find value in (Think more amazon, target, stop & Shop, etc., and less Ruth's Chris Steakhouse, Dick's Sporting Good, etc.) .
Our suggestion: don't purchase a single card, but Buy as many (smaller) cards as you can afford so that you have plenty to hand out during the run. Handing out gifts to people we pass is what makes this run amazing! Wrap the gift cards (If possible) prior to the run and that's it. Amazon has a nice option to purchase gift cards that come pre-wrapped in holiday containers.
DO I NEED TO WEAR A SILLY OUTFIT TO RUN / WALK?
No you don't, scrooge! Wear whatever makes you feel comfortable for the weather and the miles. That said, it would be a lot cooler if you did....
DO YOU HAVE TRANSPORTATION / SHUTTLES FOR GETTING TO THE STOPS, OR BACK TO THE START FROM?
Unfortunately we don't. we recognize this is a bit of a logistical challenge for this event and are continuing to explore ways to make this easier for participants in the future. a ride share back to the start from any of the stops is a short 5-10 minute ride.
IS THERE PARKING AT ROBBINS FARM?
There is plenty of on-street parking around Robbins Farm park, along Eastern ave or any of the neighborhood side streets. A ride share back to the start from any of the stops is a short 5-10 minute ride. See Details on Parking / Transportation here
IS THIS A RAIN OR SHINE EVENT?
Unless there are extremely unsafe conditions, the show will go on. For those who sign up, we will send out email notifications if there is any change in plans.
ARE THERE BATHROOMS AVAILABLE AT THE START?
Good question! There is currently a Porta-Potty at Robbins Farm Park that's available for use, but it may be removed during the winter months (and therefore the day of our run/walk). To be on the safe side, try to take care of business beforehand.
DO I HAVE TO RUN / WALK THE ENTIRE COURSE? CAN I JUST MEET YOU AT A STOP?
No! While we would love your company for the entire event, you can stop at any time. As highlighted in the questions above, we do not have transportation options for individuals so you would be on the hook for your own way home from any place along the course. Before leaving, we kindly ask that you check in with one of the guides to inform them of your departure.
I WANT TO BRING FOOD / SUPPLIES TO DONATE TO ARLINGTON EATS. WHAT SORT OF THINGS SHOULD I DONATE?
We are kindly asking all participants to bring any non-perishable foods to the start. Bring as much as you can!!! In addition, items from the following list are always helpful: Shelf stable soup, Soy Sauce, Personal care items such as shampoo, soap, toothpaste, toothbrush, Children's diapers (larger sizes are more in demand), Clean, grocery-sized, paper or reusable bags with handles
Please do not donate: soda, sports drinks, medications, bed pads, adult incontinence products, expired items, jumbo or single serving sizes