Run for the Zoo 2026

For more than four decades, runners of all levels and abilities have been raising money to support Lincoln Park Zoo with Run for the Zoo, now in its 48th year! The race route is suitable for all experience levels and features a flat, scenic route that winds in and around the zoo, allowing for beautiful views of Chicago’s skyline, Lake Michigan, protected natural areas, and zoo habitats.

All participants receive: 

• Tech-blend shirt with 2026 animal theme
  
  
• Special edition finisher medal
  
  
• Digital swag bag
  
  
• Access to the post-race party
  
  
• (Wildlife Warriors only) Bonus piece of merch with 2026 animal theme
  
  
• (Kids’ Course participants only) Kids’ Course T-shirt and medal
  
  
• (Volunteers only) Crew T-shirt with 2026 animal theme

 
It costs $108,000 a day to fund Lincoln Park Zoo operations—everything from state-of-the-art animal care and global conservation work to interactive learning programs and groundbreaking scientific research. More than 80% of that operating cost is funded by memberships, donations, guest visits, and events like Run for the Zoo. Your participation helps keep Lincoln Park Zoo free and open to all, 365 days a year! 

Course maps for the Kids’ Course race will be available in early 2026. Check back soon!

Information about the 2026 Run for the Zoo Post-Race Party is coming soon!

Course maps for the 10K Run will be available in early 2026. Check back soon!

Course maps for the 5K Run & 5K Walk will be available in early 2025. Check back soon!

Now in its 48th year, Run for the Zoo is a beloved family-friendly tradition that supports Lincoln Park Zoo, the nation’s only privately managed free-admission zoo. Every race registration and fundraising page helps the zoo save species near and far and keeps this urban oasis free and open to the public, 365 days a year.

The race route is suitable for all experience levels. It features a flat, scenic route that winds in and around the zoo, allowing for beautiful views of Chicago’s skyline, Lake Michigan, protected natural areas, and zoo habitats.

Ambitious athletes can compete in the chip-timed 5K and 10K courses, which are USA Track & Field-certified. Both runners and walkers are welcome, and young participants (ages 3–8) can take on the Kids’ Course, a fun obstacle course built to get kids running, climbing, and crawling!

Whether you’re a veteran runner or a parent with young ones, there’s a place for you at Run for the Zoo. It's a fun and rewarding way to contribute directly towards animal care, conservation efforts, and education initiatives that help animals both locally and around the world.

All participants receive: 

• Tech-blend shirt with 2026 animal theme
  
• Special edition finisher medal
  
  
• Digital swag bag
  
  
• Access to the post-race party
  
  
• (Wildlife Warriors only) Bonus piece of merch with 2026 animal theme
  
  
• (Kids’ Course participants only) Kids’ Course T-shirt and medal
  
  
• (Volunteers only) Crew T-shirt with 2026 animal theme

 Choose Your Race     Become a Fundraiser     Volunteer 

BEFORE THE RACE 

When does Run for the Zoo take place? 
Run for the Zoo will take place on May 31, 2026!  

What’s the route? 
Race routes will be confirmed and shared in early 2026.

What’s included with my registration? 
Registration for the 10K Run, 5K Run/Walk, and Kids’ Course includes a limited-edition shirt, participation in team and individual fundraising challenges with exciting prizes, and access to a fun post-race celebration. All registrations include a participant medal with the 2026 Run for the Zoo logo, featuring the year’s animal theme. 

When does registration end? 
Registration ends once the race begins or when it sells out. Check the registration page for availability. We do expect this year’s race to sell out, so register soon! 

What’s the age requirement to register? 
There is no age requirement to participate in Run for the Zoo. We do recommend that children ages 3–8 sign up for the Kids’ Course event, which is specifically designed for young people. 

What is the Kids’ Course? 
The Kids’ Course is a fun and active option for young participants. This event features child-friendly obstacles and takes place on the zoo’s South Lawn, near Park Place Café on zoo grounds. 

I’m a first-time runner. Can I still participate?  
Of course! Run for the Zoo is open to all ages and experience levels. The course is scenic, flat, and perfect for beginners as well as families and groups. 

I'm a member at Lincoln Park Zoo. How do I get my membership discount?
You can get your Lincoln Park Zoo member discount by entering the first three digits of your membership number in the "Coupon Code" field, located in the Purchase Summary box, at the end of checkout.

Can I change my registration from one race distance to the other? 
If space is available, then yes, you may change your registration from one race to another. Please contact info@visioneventmanagement.com before the event or visit the Help Table located at packet pickup on race day to request a transfer. 

Note: When switching from the 10K Run to the 5K Run/Walk, you will not receive a refund for the price difference. Alternatively, when switching from the 5K to the 10K, payment will be required for the price difference. 

Can I transfer my bib number to a friend?  
No, transferring bib numbers is not permitted for safety and liability reasons. 

Where do I pick up my packet and T-shirt? 
Packed pickup dates, times, and locations will be announced in 2026.

What do I need to pick up my packet and T-shirt?  
You may pick up your packet and T-shirt using the QR code that will be emailed to you (please show a printed copy or an electronic version on your phone) or by providing your last name at pickup. 

Can I pick up my friend's packet and T-shirt?  
If you plan to pick up a packet and T-shirt for someone else, you must have a copy of that person’s unique confirmation QR code (a printed copy or an electronic version on your phone) or a photo of their ID. 

How do I fundraise for Run for the Zoo?
A personal fundraising page is automatically created for all participants upon registration. You can edit your goals, personal messages, and photos to share and raise funds for Chicago’s free zoo. 

Anyone (even non-participants!) can create a fundraising page by going to Donate -> Become a Fundraiser on the race website. 

Can I volunteer to help?
Yes! Please visit the Volunteer tab on the race website. All volunteers will receive a limited-edition themed Crew T-shirt.

If you’re interested in bringing a group of volunteers to the event, please email volunteer@lpzoo.org for opportunities.

AT THE RACE

Is parking available at the event? 
Street parking is available throughout the Lincoln Park neighborhood, although the race will close some routes. Additional parking is available in the zoo’s parking lot located at Fullerton Parkway and Cannon Drive (2400 N. Cannon Drive). Parking in the lot is first-come, first-served, and regular parking rates apply. 

Important note: On the day of the race, Fullerton Avenue will be closed starting at 7:45 a.m., blocking the entrance to Cannon Drive and the zoo parking lot. The lot will be closed off until the street reopens at 9:15 a.m. If you plan to park in the zoo’s lot, you must arrive before the entrance closes at 7:45 a.m. 

Can I use public transportation to get to the race? 
Yes, public transportation is highly recommended for the best race day experience! The 22, 36, 151, and 156 buses all stop along the western edge of the zoo. To learn more about taking the CTA, call 312-836-7000 or use the CTA’s trip planner. 

Is bike parking available? 
Yes, bike parking is located outside the East Gate in the zoo’s parking lot and a limited number of spots  are available outside of the West Gate near the start line.

What streets will be closed? How will this impact getting to the race? 
Street closures should be expected around the zoo on race day. Stockton Drive will be closed from LaSalle Drive to Fullerton Avenue (all lanes) from 4–9:30 a.m. Fullerton will be closed from Lincoln Park West to DuSable Lake Shore Drive (all lanes) from 7:45–9:15 a.m. Please note, this will also impact access to the zoo parking lot during portions of the race. 

How can I find out if my car was towed?
Call 311 or go to or search the City’s website at: http://findyourvehicle.cityofchicago.org

Where can I check my personal belongings while I participate in the race? 
Complimentary gear check is located at Bird’s Eye Bar & Grill, above the zoo’s Gift Shop. 

What is the schedule for race day?

6 a.m.                      Packet pickup opens 
6 a.m.                      Gear check opens 
7:15 a.m.                 5K Run/Walk participants at start line 
7:25 a.m.                 Opening ceremonies at start line 
7:30 a.m.                 5K Run/Walk begins 
8:15 a.m.                 10K Run begins 
9 a.m.                      Kids’ Course Heat No. 1 
9:30 a.m.                 Packet pickup closes 
9:45 a.m.                 Kids’ Course Heat No. 2 
10 a.m.                    Awards announcements 
11 a.m.                    Gear check closes 
12 p.m.                    Post-race party concludes

Can I use my baby jogger or stroller?   
Strollers are permitted in the 5K Run/Walk only and will be required to start in the last wave with the walk participants. No strollers will be permitted in the 10K Run. 

Can I participate in a wheelchair? 
The paths on this course are too tight to safely allow racing wheelchairs. We ask any participants using them to register for the 5K Walk (not the 10K or 5K Run) to avoid any risk of collision. Because a significant portion of the course is on park district land, we are unable to guarantee that path quality off zoo grounds would be suitable for a wheelchair to navigate without assistance from a companion. However, you are welcome to participate at your discretion.  

Is there a minimum pace time? 
Yes. For the best experience on this course, we recommend that runners and walkers aim for a pace of under 20 minutes per mile for the 5K and under 16 minutes per mile for the 10K. Such a pace minimizes overlap with other race participants and local foot traffic.  

Can I wear headphones?  
Yes. Please monitor the volume so you remain aware of your surroundings and can hear any instructions provided at the Aid Stations. 

Can I bring my dog?  
Dogs are not permitted on the racecourse or on zoo grounds. For information on service dogs, please visit lpzoo.org/visit/accessibility. 

Can my friends and family come cheer me on? 
Absolutely! Spectators are welcome to watch from any point along the course as well as at the finish line. We will publish a spectator course map closer to race day.

Where are the start and finish lines? 
The start line for the 5K Run/Walk and 10K Run is located at Stockton Drive just south of Webster Avenue, near the zoo’s West Gate. The finish line for both races is located on the east side of Pepper Family Wildlife Center on zoo grounds. 

Are there restrooms at the start line? 
Yes, portable restrooms are located along Stockton Drive outside of the zoo. Additional restrooms are located across zoo grounds. There are no restrooms along the course, so please take advantage of the ones at the start line before the race begins. 

Will water be available on the course? 
Yes, three water stations will be located along the 10K Run course and one water station can be found along the 5K Run/Walk course. 

Will food be available? 
Yes, food and beverages will be available for purchase across zoo grounds. 

When does the post-race party take place? 
The post-race party will be held directly following the race on Lincoln Park Zoo’s Main Mall. Participants will have access to the area after crossing the finish line. 

AFTER THE RACE

How do I find my race results? 
You can find your results by scanning the QR code on your bib. 

I won an award. Where can I pick it up? 
Award winners will be made public after the race and awards can be picked up from the announcer at that time. If you miss this, you can pick your award at Searle Visitor Center during regular business hours up to two weeks after race day. Unclaimed prizes will no longer be available after two weeks.

Where does my donation go? 
Your registration helps fund state-of-the-art animal care, international conservation projects, and wide-ranging education programs. Every guest participating in Lincoln Park Zoo’s public events helps to preserve wildlife and keep our gates open and free 365 days a year. 

If I have more questions, who can I reach out to? 
If you have a question regarding this event, please email info@visioneventmanagement.com.   

If you have a question regarding events at Lincoln Park Zoo, please email events@lpzoo.org. 

If you are interested in being a sponsor of this event, please email corporatealliances@lpzoo.org. 

Want to earn fun prizes as you build your team? Planning on running or walking the race alongside friends and family? Share your referral code and win prizes!

Referring your friends is a great way to increase your impact as you raise funds for Lincoln Park Zoo! Gather together for a feel-good day of connecting with nature and wildlife while supporting your zoo.  

 
Run for the Zoo 2025 Referral Program Tiers & Prizes 

You can win unique zoo prizes as you form your Run for the Zoo team:

Refer 5 People with Your Code – Lincoln Park Zoo Sticker Pack ($20 value)

Refer 10 People with Your Code – Lincoln Park Zoo Water Bottle PLUS Sticker Pack ($45 value)

Refer 15 People with Your Code - Your choice of: (2) tickets to Craft Brews or (3) ten-packs of Attraction Tickets PLUS Lincoln Park Zoo Sticker Pack and Water Bottle ($180 value)

Refer 20 People with Your Code - First Dibs: (6) tickets to ZooLights 2025 on a night of your choice* plus all other referral tier prizes (Priceless!)

*Excludes special event nights

Locating Your Personal Referral Code

There are three main locations you can find your referral code:

    1. In your Confirmation Email

    2. On your RunSignup Profile

    3. On the confirmation page following registration

For more information on how to find your referral code, click here.

Run for the Zoo 2025 Results

Run for the Zoo 2024 Results

Run for the Zoo 2023 Results

Run for the Zoo 2022 Results

Run for the Zoo 2019 Results

Run for the Zoo 2018 Results

Run for the Zoo 2017 Results

Course maps for spectators will be available in early 2026. Check back soon!

Tracking your participant is easy. Click the link below and follow the steps to watch them in action!

Athlete Update link: https://register.chronotrack.com/event/tracking/eventID/67438

Run for the Zoo Prizes

Finisher & Fundraising Awards

Information on Run for the Zoo awards and prizes is coming soon! Run for the Zoo will give prizes to 10K Run and 5K Run race winners, teams, and individual donors.

Referral Awards

You can also win unique zoo prizes by getting others to sign up for Run for the Zoo with your referral code! Referring your friends is a great way to increase your impact as you raise funds for Lincoln Park Zoo. Spend time connecting with nature and being inspired by wildlife, all while supporting your zoo and enjoying the company of friends.

Run for the Zoo 2025 Referral Program Tiers & Prizes

Refer 5 People with Your Code – Lincoln Park Zoo Sticker Pack ($20 value)
Refer 10 People with Your Code – Lincoln Park Zoo Water Bottle PLUS Sticker Pack ($45 value)
Refer 15 People with Your Code – Your choice of: (2) tickets to Craft Brews or (3) ten-packs of Attraction Tickets PLUS Lincoln Park Zoo Sticker Pack and Water Bottle ($180 value)
Refer 20 People with Your Code – First Dibs: (6) tickets to ZooLights 2025 on a night of your choice* plus all other referral tier prizes (Priceless!)
*Excludes special event nights

Locating Your Personal Referral Code
There are three main locations where you can find your referral code:
    1. In your Confirmation Email
    2. On your RunSignup Profile
    3. On the confirmation page following registration
For more information on how to find your referral code, click here.

Do you have an in-kind gift you’d like to donate, or are you interested in learning more about sponsorship? Send a message to events@lpzoo.org.