Fried Chicken Festival 5K Run | Walk 2026

The Fried Chicken Festival 5K Run | Walk begins on Lakeshore Drive in New Orleans, near the National Fried Chicken Festival entrance. This morning 5K is scheduled for the festival weekend, accommodating competitive runners, casual walkers, children, families with strollers, and students. The race takes place before the festival opens, followed by a post-race gathering featuring food, drinks, and entertainment. A 5K registration includes admission to the National Fried Chicken Festival with all-day re-entry, positioning the run as the initial activity of a longer festival day. A 1-mile Kids Fun Run is available for participants aged 12 and under, and group discounts are offered for parties of five or more registering together.