Lincoln Park Zoo Announces 2026 Run for the Zoo Theme in Celebration of Rhinoceros Pregnancy

Chicago (January 28, 2026) – Lincoln Park Zoo’s Run for the Zoo returns on Sunday, May 31 with a very exciting theme! The 48^th annual race will celebrate the eastern black rhinoceros in conjunction with the pregnancy of Kapuki, whose third calf is due this spring. Run for the Zoo brings together zoo community members in support of wildlife here in Chicago and all over the world, raising money for the zoo’s wildlife conservation efforts.

Runners—and walkers—of all abilities are welcome at Run for the Zoo. The chip-timed 5K and 10K courses are U.S.A. Track & Field-certified, perfect for ambitious athletes looking for a challenge. As a family-friendly event, there is also a special Kids’ Course for little sprinters ages 3 to 8 years old. This fun and unique obstacle course is built to get children running, climbing, and crawling.

Every Run for the Zoo registrant will receive a unique medal and race shirt featuring an illustrated eastern black rhinoceros. All proceeds from the race help keep Lincoln Park Zoo free and open to all, as well as support the zoo’s world-class animal care and global conservation efforts. This includes caring for animals like Kapuki and her calf, as well as overseeing other breeding recommendations at zoos across the country through the AZA Population Management Center, based here at Lincoln Park Zoo.

“Run for the Zoo is one of our most cherished events each year, and it’s even more special in 2026 as we celebrate Kapuki’s pregnancy,” said Meg Hein, Senior Events Manager. “We’re excited to gather together zoo fans and Chicago’s running community as we lace up our gym shoes in support of animal care and global conservation!”

Both the 5K and 10K routes take participants on a picturesque run winding through and around the zoo. The course offers stunning views of Lake Michigan and the city’s skyline, plus protected natural areas and a variety of animal habitats throughout Lincoln Park Zoo. Professional photos are taken of all participants during the race, and the complimentary images can be downloaded after the race. In addition to the medal and race shirt, participants will also receive a digital goodie bag and access to a post-race party.

Race options vary in price, with the 5K run/walk starting at $52.99, the 10K run starting at $55.99, the Wildlife Warrior combined 5K and 10K starting at $108.98, and the Kids’ Course starting at $24.99. Participants have the option to sign up for a virtual 5K or 10K as well. Lincoln Park Zoo members receive a 20% discount on the 5K and 10K packages. Not a member? Visit lpzoo.org/membership.

About Lincoln Park Zoo

Lincoln Park Zoo inspires communities to create environments where wildlife will thrive in our urbanizing world. The zoo is a leader in local and global conservation, animal care and welfare, learning, and science. A historic Chicago landmark founded in 1868, the not-for-profit Lincoln Park Zoo is a privately-managed, member-supported organization and is free and open 365 days a year. Visit us at lpzoo.org.