Several thousand people — many of them friends, families and co-workers of those who have been afflicted with blood cancers — will gather Saturday at Reston Town Center to celebrate survivors and commemorate those lost at the annual Light the Night Walk.

The annual event is to raise funds and awareness for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s (LLS) National Capital Area Chapter.

The walk begins at twilight, when walkers will turn on their illuminated red, white, or gold balloons. Champions For Cures, all those who raise at least $100, will also enjoy live music by The Johnny Esquire Band, a variety of games and activities and food. The walk’s program will be emceed by WMZQ’s Jenni Chase.

Walkers raise funds in honor of local Honored Heroes, patient or survivors of blood cancer who provide inspiration and support. The 2012 Honored Heroes include five-year-old Rett Bush of Germantown, MD; DC resident Ashley Crews; Brianna Garcia of Springfield; Rachel Kesselman of Arlington; and six-year-old Peter Kress of Arlington.

Those interested in signing up for the Light the Night Walk should visit www.lightthenight.org/nca or call (703) 399-2941.