By Katie Sin
Get ready, Burlington — dinosaurs are about to take over Appleby Line! The popular Dino Run will be part of the annual Appleby Line Street Festival on September 21, 2025, bringing lots of energy, fun costumes, and a family adventure you won’t want to miss.
This unique race is designed for families to get moving and make memories together while staying active. With race distances suited for kids of all ages, Dino Run makes it easy to spark a love for running. Whether it’s little ones running their very first race or parents jogging with strollers, the atmosphere is playful, supportive, and welcoming.
Keeping things fun with storytime
This year, kids can meet Dr. T. Rex (Heather Dancey, actor), a lively dino scientist who keeps the energy going with engaging activities, fascinating dino facts, and even a few musical performances. She’ll host circle time, giving families a chance to gather between races for interactive sessions that mix learning with play.
The event will also feature a very special storytime. I will be reading my new children’s book, Marin’s Magic Cheer, a heartwarming story celebrating the running community. I wrote this story as a tribute to moms who continue chasing their dreams after having kids, and I’m proud that it’s now part of the Burlington Public Library’s local author collection.
As a Burlington resident, this event feels especially meaningful. I’ve made so many memories with my kids on the Centennial Trail, from stroller runs with my daughter to chasing after my son as he learned to ride his bike. I’m thrilled that Dino Run will be taking place on the very same trail and I love that it will give families the chance to create their own memories here, too.
More than a run
Dino Run isn’t just about crossing a finish line. It’s about fostering healthy habits, building community, and showing kids that exercise can be fun. With cheering neighbours, playful dinosaurs, and the buzz of a street festival all around, this magical event delivers far more than just a race.
Prizes will be awarded to the top finishers, but for many kids, the biggest highlight is meeting the dino volunteers. Whether it’s getting a high-five or taking a photo together, these dinosaurs are the real celebrities of the day, keeping spirits high and making sure every runner feels like a champion.
Join the fun
Dino Run is the official pre-festival event of the Appleby Line Street Festival, which transforms the neighbourhood into a car-free zone filled with music, food, local vendors, and family-friendly entertainment. It’s a day that brings the whole community together, and Dino Run captures the spirit by being active, cheerful, and just a little bit silly.
Spots in the race fill up quickly, so families are encouraged to register early. And if running isn’t your thing, there are other ways to get involved. Organizers are looking for volunteers to suit up as dinosaurs (costumes provided!) to chase, cheer and pose for photos. It’s an unforgettable way to experience the event up close while giving back to the community. Proceeds of the event will go to the Boys and Girls Club Hamilton-Halton Region, plus the event will be collecting non-perishable food for the Burlington Food Bank.
Event Details
Where: Appleby Line Street Festival, Centennial Bikeway (652 Appleby Line, Burlington)
When: Sunday, September 21 from 12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Who: Families, kids of all ages, and anyone who loves dinosaurs
How: Register at dinorun.ca
