Lace up your walking shoes and join us at a Walk4Hearing event near you this year.
Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA) is gearing up for another exciting year of Walk4Hearing events, and we couldn’t be more thrilled. As a proud long-standing sponsor of Walk4Hearing, the CapTel team looks forward to these events every year. Whether you’re a seasoned walker or thinking about joining for the first time, the 2026 Walk4Hearing season has something for everyone. Here’s a look at what’s coming up, what makes these events so special, and how you can get involved.
What Is Walk4Hearing?
Walk4Hearing is the nation’s largest hearing loss fundraiser and awareness event. Organized by HLAA, these community walks bring together people with hearing loss, their families, friends, audiologists, and advocates to raise funds and awareness for programs that support the hearing loss community. Since the first Walk4Hearing in 2006, the event has grown from just six walks to events in cities all across the country, with over 100,000 participants and millions of dollars raised for hearing loss organizations and local nonprofits.
2026 Walk4Hearing Dates and Locations
This year’s Walk4Hearing events span from spring through fall, with walks scheduled in 18 cities across the country. The season kicks off in May with walks in the Twin Cities (May 16), Westchester/Rockland (May 17), the Bay Area (May 30), Michigan (May 30), and Long Beach (May 31). In early June, walks continue in Connecticut (June 7) and Wisconsin (June 7).
The fall season picks up in September with walks in New York City (September 19) and Chicago (September 20), followed by Boston (October 4), New Jersey (October 11), North Carolina (October 11), Washington DC (October 17), and Pennsylvania (October 18). Later in the fall, walks are planned for Arizona (November 7) and Houston (November 14), with dates for Kentucky and Nashville still to be announced.
With so many locations throughout the year, there’s a good chance you’ll find a walk near you. Visit walk4hearing.org to find the full list and register for an event.
What to Expect at a Walk4Hearing Event
If you’ve never attended a Walk4Hearing event before, you’re in for a wonderful experience. The events are welcoming, community-focused, and designed to be accessible for everyone. A typical walk day includes a kickoff celebration with speakers and activities, followed by the walk itself, which is a 5K (about 3.1 miles) route that you can complete at your own pace. There’s no pressure to rush; the goal is to enjoy the day, connect with others, and show your support.
Along the way, you’ll meet other walkers, families, and professionals in the hearing loss community. Many attendees say that the conversations and connections they make at the event are just as meaningful as the walk itself. It’s a great chance to share stories, learn about new technology, and feel part of a community that understands your experience.
How to Prepare
A little preparation can help you make the most of your Walk4Hearing experience. Start by registering on the Walk4Hearing website and building or joining a team. Walking with friends, family, or coworkers makes the day even more enjoyable, and you can have fun creating team accessories like matching shirts or signs to show your team spirit.
When it comes to packing for the day, comfort is key. Wear supportive walking shoes and dress in layers in case the weather changes. Bring a refillable water bottle, sunscreen, and snacks to keep your energy up. Don’t forget your hearing aids and spare batteries, and consider keeping them in a protective case in a drawstring bag for easy access. For a full list of essentials, check out our blog on what to bring to a Walk4Hearing event and our tips on maximizing your Walk4Hearing experience.
Ways to Get Involved
Even if you can’t attend a walk in person, there are plenty of ways to show your support. You can donate to or sponsor a walker or team through the Walk4Hearing website. Every contribution, no matter the size, helps fund important programs for people with hearing loss. You can also spread the word by sharing the event on social media, telling friends and family about the cause, or encouraging your workplace or community group to form a team.
Volunteering is another great option. Walk4Hearing events rely on volunteers to help with registration, hand out refreshments, and keep the day running smoothly. If you’re interested in getting more involved, reach out to the organizers to learn about volunteer opportunities in your area.
Walk4Hearing is a celebration of community, awareness, and the shared goal of bringing awareness to hearing loss. Whether you walk, volunteer, donate, or simply cheer from the sidelines, your support makes a real difference. We hope to see you at a 2026 Walk4Hearing event! If you see our CapTel team at a walk, be sure to say hi! For more ways to stay connected and involved in the hearing loss community, visit the CapTel blog.
