Prepare for an unforgettable journey at the 30th Annual Run Wild for the Detroit Zoo 5K on Sunday, September 13, 2026, in Detroit, Michigan. This beloved event invites thousands of runners and walkers to support vital veterinary care for animals at the Detroit Zoo and Belle Isle Nature Center, making every stride count for a wild cause. Typical race day conditions in mid-September offer ideal running weather, with highs around 76°F and lows near 58°F, accompanied by only a 13% chance of precipitation.

The 5K course promises a unique experience, starting at the Detroit Zoo's 10 Mile Road entrance and winding through the scenic, generally flat streets of Huntington Woods, a charming neighborhood surrounding the zoo. While past races offered glimpses of the zoo, the 2026 event elevates the excitement with a significant course enhancement: the 5K now culminates directly inside the heart of the Detroit Zoo, right in front of the red panda habitat, providing an extraordinary finish line spectacle. Runners consistently praise the fast and flat nature of the course, making it suitable for both personal best attempts and an enjoyable stroll. Strollers are welcome at the back of the 5K for those running with little ones, fostering a truly family-friendly atmosphere.

Participants are treated to more than just a race; registration includes admission to the Detroit Zoo on race day, along with a commemorative 30th-anniversary medal and T-shirt. After crossing the finish line, celebrate your accomplishment at a lively post-race party featuring food, beverages, and entertainment, with access to the new Fred and Barbara Erb Discovery Trails. Packet pickup is conveniently located at the front of the Detroit Zoo on both Saturday and Sunday morning, though early arrival on race day is highly recommended as 10 Mile Road closes for the event. Join thousands of fellow animal enthusiasts for this memorable 30th-anniversary celebration, championed by this year's mascot, Jagger the sloth bear, for a truly wild and rewarding race experience.