‘Step into Winter’ with your local parkrun
Step into Winter: parkrun, supported by presenting partner Vhi, and Healthy Ireland relaunch national campaign to keep the country moving this winter
As the daylight fades and the colder weather arrives, parkrun and Healthy Ireland are again joining forces to relaunch their national campaign, ‘Step into Winter’.
The campaign aims to inspire people across Ireland to wrap up, head outdoors, and embrace physical activity and community throughout the winter season.
Throughout November and beyond, Step into Winter invites individuals of all ages and abilities, whether walking, jogging, running, or volunteering, to join their local parkrun on Saturday mornings, and for children and their families to enjoy junior parkrun on Sunday mornings.
By building momentum before the festive season begins, participants can establish sustainable health habits that carry over into 2027.
Building on the core science of habit formation, the campaign highlights that taking action now allows individuals to establish strong, active routines well before the new year.
Winter can often lead to isolation, lower energy levels, and seasonal mood drops.
Step into Winter emphasises the transformative power of outdoor community events to combat seasonal affective disorder (SAD), release endorphins, and foster local connection when people need it most.
Jenny Branigan, territory manager, parkrun Ireland, said: “Winter can feel long, but staying active and connected makes all the difference. Step into Winter is our open invitation to everyone, no matter your fitness level, to wrap up, get outside, and experience the joy of community at parkrun.
“Whether you walk or run 5k, or help out as a volunteer, getting into nature on a weekend morning sets a positive tone for the rest of the weekend.”
Minister for Public Health, Wellbeing and the National Drugs Strategy Jennifer Murnane O’Connor, TD, said: “Healthy Ireland is proud to support parkrun once again for the Step into Winter campaign. Staying connected and active during the darker months is essential for our physical and mental wellbeing. parkrun’s free, inclusive, weekly events offer a welcoming space in local communities across Ireland, helping people build healthy habits that extend far beyond the winter months.”
Get involved
With free, weekly events in parks and green spaces nationwide, parkrun offers a fun, inclusive and supportive environment for everyone regardless of age, fitness level, or background. Every Saturday and Sunday morning, thousands gather to walk, jog, run, or volunteer, proving that small steps together can make a big difference.
We invite you to join your local parkrun this winter! Find your nearest event at parkrun.ie and share your journey with #StepIntoWinter on social media platforms. Together, we can make every Saturday or Sunday morning something to look forward to.