A Winter 5k Adventure
Join a herd of runners at Zoo Run Run! This winter race takes runners and walkers on a 5K adventure throughout the Zoo’s property, including areas not available to the public. Families and children are encouraged to bundle up as they hit the trail. Proceeds from Zoo Run Run help fund the Zoo's conservation work. Zoo Run Run is a rain, snow or shine event.
The Course
Friends and families are welcome to join us for a brisk stroll instead of a run. Be aware that some of the course is off-road.
Have little ones? Grab your off-road stroller and join the fun!
Please note, pets are not allowed on Zoo property and all service animals must be registered at the Zoo's ticket booth.
Check out the 2025 map of the course here and the 2025 digital schedule here.Our updated 2026 map and schedule will be coming soon!
Registration Options
Race Participant - $55 (untimed) or $60 (timed)
Choose to run or walk as a timed or untimed participant. Every in-person registrant receives a t-shirt, a race bib, post-race refreshments and free access to attractions until 5:00 pm. Pre-registration dates will be offered so that runners can skip day-of registration lines and take full advantage of pre-race activities. Shirts and bibs will not be held post-race for those who do not attend.
Everyone participating in the race over age 5 will need to register as a timed or untimed participant. Young children (ages 2-5) are welcome to ride in a stroller during the race but will need a $10 race observer ticket (see what's included below). Children under age 2 are free and do not need a ticket.
Tickets go on sale Friday, December 19 around 10 am.
*Pricing increases by $10 on 2/23. Members save $5 per ticket through 2/22.
Zoo Run Run is SOLD OUT! Observer tickets are still available.
Register Now
Race Observer - $10*
Race observers will have access to the Festival Field area inside the Zoo to watch the race start, cheer at the race finish line, participate in the award ceremony, and enjoy free access to the zip line, carousel and 4D theater throughout the race! Each person (ages 2+), including Zoo members, wishing to view the start/finish will need a $10 Race Observer ticket.
*Members save $5 per race observer ticket.
Observer tickets go on sale Friday, December 19 around 10 am.
Get Race Observer Tickets
Optional Participation Medal
Runners can upgrade to receive a souvenir participation medal while supplies last!
Tickets go on sale December 20 around 10 am.
2026 Shirt Design & Medal Design
Coming soon!
Virtual Costume Contest
Come dressed to impress in animal or Zoo-themed costumes for your chance at winning a Backstage Pass Tour for four and Zoo general admission tickets!
Costume Contest Rules: Must have participated in the 2026 Zoo Run Run. Your runner bib must be visible in your photo submission and take place within Zoo grounds. Photos may include one costumed individual or costumed group of up to four individuals.
Process: Photos must be submitted via the Nashville Zoo Facebook Costume Contest Post by end of the day, Saturday February 28th. The photos with the most public reactions by Monday, March 2nd will be chosen as the winners. Nashville Zoo staff will announce winning costume contest submissions for the categories of: Top voted group submission (up to 4 people per group) & Top voted individual submission. Winners will be notified via their runner registration email, and on the Zoo’s social media along with the general public on Monday, March 2nd - where the winners will be announced and photos displayed.
