By Theo Rijs, Chair National Scout Programme

Facebook: Eastrand District, parkrun 2018

On Saturday, 1 August 2026, we are inviting every Meerkat, Cub, Scout, Rover, Adult Leader and Scout family to join thousands of people across the country to Paint parkrun Purple!

This exciting national initiative celebrates World Scout Scarf Day by encouraging Scouts of all ages to attend their nearest parkrun wearing their Scout scarves and, where possible, their purple SCOUTS South Africa T-shirts or other purple clothing and paraphernalia.

Together, let’s create a nationwide sea of purple while celebrating World Scout Scarf Day and promoting Scouting in our communities.

🫟 Why participate?

 Paint parkrun Purple is a FUN, simple and inclusive way to:

• Promote Scouting in your community.
• Participate in a healthy outdoor activity.
• Publicise the positive impact of Scouting.
• Practise service and leadership through volunteering.
• Play your part in a nationwide Scout celebration.

Whether you walk, run, volunteer or cheer, everyone can take part!

🫟 Prepare to Paint parkrun Purple

Pick a parkrun:
Click HERE to find your nearest parkrun, or join the venue recommended by your Regional Paint parkrun Purple person.

Plan your participation:

• Register with parkrun if you plan to walk or run. Click HERE to register.
• Let your members and parents know the arrangements.
• Confirm meeting times, supervision, and transport to your local parkrun.

Put on the Purple!

• Wear your Scout scarf and
• your purple SCOUTS South Africa T-shirt, if you have one; or
• your Group T-shirt and another suitable purple item of clothing.

Bring your Scout Group spirit and, if appropriate, purple paraphernalia!

🫟 Purple people. Purple pictures. Positive publicity.

Take plenty of Purple Pictures before and after the event and share them with your Region and the National Office [email protected] or WhatsApp 068 069 9463 – please include your Scout Group name.

Help us spread the excitement using the hashtags: #scoutssouthafrica; #scoutssa; #WorldScoutScarfDay; #PaintparkrunPurple; #parkrunSA; #purplefun

Let’s fill parkruns across South Africa with purple people, positive participation, and proud Purple Pictures as we celebrate World Scout Scarf Day 2026.