Running Wild for the Zoo 5K 2026

Running Wild for the Zoo 5K is a 5K run and walk held at 115 Lake Shore Drive in Michigan City, Indiana. Race-day check-in begins at 7:30 AM, the start area opens at 9:00 AM, and parking is complimentary. Every participant receives a pass for free zoo admission on race day, integrating the run with a same-day zoo visit. The event accommodates walkers, families, and competitive runners, with a tiered awards system. The top five overall male and female finishers earn trophies, as do the top Masters male and female finishers (over 40 and not in the overall top five). Age-group medals are awarded three deep for age brackets from 8-and-under to 80-and-over. Separate Clydesdale and Athena awards are given to men over 210 pounds and women over 170 pounds, respectively. Post-race amenities include water, fruit, hot dogs, and a beer garden for those 21 and older. Participants can opt for a no-shirt registration to receive a $5 discount.