Lace up your running shoes and get ready for a wild adventure at Zoo Knoxville’s brand-new Red Panda Run 5K on May 30, 2026. Participants will race past some of the zoo’s most iconic habitats while supporting wildlife conservation in this unique race experience that begins and ends inside the zoo.

The Red Panda Run kicks off at the Boyd Family Red Panda Village and takes runners on a scenic three-mile journey through Zoo Knoxville and neighboring Chilhowee Park. Along the course, participants will pass tigers, gibbons, rhinos, great apes, and the all-new Timber Loop Boardwalk. Two on-course water stations will be available to keep runners hydrated.

Age group winners will receive exclusive Red Panda swag, and the overall winner, along with their family, will enjoy a special meet-and-greet with one of Zoo Knoxville’s resident red pandas on race day.

All race participants will receive:

  • A commemorative Red Panda Run T-shirt
  • Official Red Panda race bib
  • Zoo admission on race day
  • Discounted zoo admission for spectators
  • Post-race refreshments at the Sugarland’s BARn

Spectator tickets will be available for $20 the week before the event. Spectators will remain in the main plaza during the race, with clear views of the starting line, Mile 2 marker, and finish line. Spectator admission includes access to the post-race party and zoo admission for the day.

Race Day Schedule
  • 7:00 a.m. — Registration and Main Plaza open
  • 8:00 a.m. — Race begins
  • 8:30–10:00 a.m. — Post-Race Party at Sugarland’s BARn
Registration Fees
  • $40 — Member Registration (February 27–March 3)
  • $40 — Early Bird Registration (March 4–March 24)
  • $45 — Tier 1 General Registration (March 25–April 28)
  • $50 — General Registration (April 29–May 24)
  • $60 — Day Before/Day Of Registration (May 25–30)

Whether you’re chasing a personal best or just looking for a fun way to experience Zoo Knoxville, the Red Panda Run offers a memorable course, family-friendly atmosphere, and the chance to celebrate one of the zoo’s most beloved species.

Registration is now open. For more information and to sign up zooknoxville.org/events/red-panda-run-5K

Zoo Knoxville’s mission is to deliver dynamic guest experiences while inspiring action to save wildlife and wild places. For more information on Zoo Knoxville’s commitment to wildlife conservation, events, membership, and planning your visit, go here.

Located at 3500 Knoxville Zoo Dr.,37914, Zoo Knoxville is open every day 9 a.m.- 5 p.m.

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