March for Babies Returns to Irvine May 2
The March of Dimes will host its signature event, March for Babies, on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at Wild Rivers Waterpark, bringing together nearly 500 participants in support of maternal and infant health.
As the nation’s oldest charitable walk, March for Babies brings together families, health care leaders, corporate partners and local communities through more than 70 events nationwide. The Orange County walk remains one of the region’s largest community-driven fundraisers, supporting research, education, advocacy and programs that help moms and babies get the best possible start.
The morning will feature leading health care and corporate partners, including MemorialCare, Rady Children's Hospital, Kaiser Permanente, UCI Health and Wild Rivers Waterpark. Attendees can expect a high-energy, family-friendly event with hospital teams, ambassador families and community activations throughout the venue.
Despite advances in medicine, the United States continues to face serious challenges in maternal and infant health, with significant disparities in outcomes for families of color. Funds raised through March for Babies support critical efforts to improve outcomes for moms and babies nationwide.
Event leadership includes Dr. Minal Meht, OB-GYN, serving as event chair. This year’s ambassador family, the Phakousonh family, will share their story. Their son, Remy, was born with Pierre Robin Sequence, a rare condition that affects a baby’s airway, jaw and ability to feed safely. After multiple surgeries and three months in the hospital, Remy is now reaching milestones once thought out of reach. His family credits the care of their NICU team and the support of March of Dimes in helping him thrive.
The event opens at 7:30 a.m., with the walk beginning at 9 a.m. at Wild Rivers Waterpark, 10000 Great Park Blvd., Irvine.



