PORTLAND, OREGON — About 50 participants gathered at the Lloyd Center food court in Portland, Oregon, on Sunday, April 26, 2026, for a weekly mall-walking session of the Food Court 5000. The group meets every week at the mall, and most attendees wear 1980s fashion as the unofficial uniform.

Each workout consists of two full loops of the mall's three levels, totaling 3.5 miles. Participants must pump their arms in an exaggerated racewalking fashion, wave to passersby, listen to their bodies, and not leave anyone behind. After each workout, walkers gather at the food court to chat and share snacks.

Participants range in age from eight to 80 and include people of all abilities, including those using mobility devices and those with intellectual disabilities. Leslie Kelinson, 81, participates almost every week and usually leads the pack. Steve Valley, who grew up in Portland and frequented the Lloyd Center as a teenager, power walks past claw machines and empty storefronts during the sessions.

The group was started by Krista Catwood, a former burlesque performer and occasional event producer who began working an office job a little over a year ago and sought a fun way to incorporate movement into her life. Catwood led the initial mall walks using a headset microphone and portable speakers. For the group's first anniversary celebration in March 2026, about 200 walkers attended.

"It's such a fun way to just get exercise, do something really silly, build community. And I just love a shenanigan," Mariah Erlick said.

"I've met so many cool people that I have no idea how I would've met them otherwise. It's a joyous space, and … it's for everyone," Libby Rice said.

The Lloyd Center mall opened in 1960 and takes up about 20 city blocks in the northeast part of Portland. Many of its stores have closed in recent years. After more than 65 years in operation, the mall will close in August 2026. Catwood and others are attempting to appeal the decision to close it.