For the full event FAQ, visit this page. 

What’s included with my registration?  

Kids’ Course participants will receive a unique medal with the 2026 Run for the Zoo animal theme, as well as a popsicle, at their finish line.  

What time does the Kids’ Course start? 

The Kids' Course will have two heats: The first starts at 9 a.m., and the second at 9:45 a.m.  

Plan ahead: All participants should arrive early on race morning due to road closures from the race route on Stockton Drive and Fullerton Avenue, as well as DuSable Lake Shore Drive ramps onto Fullerton.  To learn more about road closures, go here. 

Where is the Kids’ Course located?  

The Kids’ Course takes place on the South Lawn, near the south side of Park Place Café inside Lincoln Park Zoo gates. Participants will be divided into the following age groups: 3-, 4-, 5-, 6-, 7-, and 8-year-olds. Each age group will be further subdivided into smaller heats to make them safer for the kids.  

What is the course like? 

Children will be going up, down, and around six to eight different obstacles throughout the race, such as hay walls, balance beams, and more.  

Please note: Children who don't feel comfortable completing specific obstacles can go around them.  

Can I accompany my child on the Kids’ Course? 

Guardians ARE NOT permitted on the course to run or walk with their child due to safety concerns. Guardians are invited to see children off at the start line, watch from outside the fencing, and meet them at the finish line. Since the start line and finish line are adjacent to each other, guardians will be able to watch their children from beginning to end. 

Reuniting children and guardians is a top priority! Each bib number features a tear tag labeled "Parent Claim Tag." This tag has a number on it that matches the number on the bib the child is wearing. Guardians should remove the claim tag before the start of the event and keep it with them. This will allow our volunteers to verify that each guardian and child pair matches in the Reunite Area. The Reunite Area is located on the west side of the South Lawn.   

Can I check my personal belongings while I participate in the race?  

A complimentary gear check will be located at Bird’s Eye Bar & Grill, above the zoo’s Gift Shop.