Zoo Knoxville Red Panda Run 5K

  • Date Sat 30th May 2026
  • Time 8:00AM EDT
  • Location Knoxville, Tennessee
  • Price $43.40
  • Races 1 race
  • Distances 5km

Event summary

Get ready for a thrilling experience at the Zoo Knoxville Red Panda Run 5K, taking place on Saturday, May 30, 2026, in the heart of Knoxville, Knox. This unique race invites participants to lace up their running shoes and embark on a scenic three-mile journey that begins and ends within the vibrant zoo. Runners will have the incredible opportunity to pass by the habitats of majestic animals like tigers, gibbons, and rhinos, all while supporting important wildlife conservation efforts. The race starts at the Boyd Family Red Panda Village, with hydration stations available along the way to keep everyone energized.

Whether you're a competitive runner chasing a personal best or a family looking for a fun day out, the Red Panda Run promises a festive atmosphere with plenty of excitement. All participants will receive a commemorative T-shirt, an official race bib, and free admission to the zoo on race day. Plus, there's a chance to win exclusive Red Panda swag and enjoy a special meet-and-greet with one of the zoo's adorable red pandas for the overall winner and their family. Spectators can join the fun for just $20, gaining access to the post-race party and the chance to explore the zoo after the race. Don't miss this fantastic

Organiser's Description

RED PANDA RUN 5K

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

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 Knoxvilles 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 Sugarlands 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.

PACKET PICK UP

Friday May 29th 3 - 6 p.m. @ Zoo Knoxville

RACE DAY SCHEDULE

7:00 a.m. Registration and Main Plaza open
8:00 a.m. Race begins
800 a.m. Post-Race Party at Sugarlands BARn

REGISTRATION FEES

$40 Member Registration (February 27March 3)
$40 Early Bird Registration (March 4March 24)

$45 Tier 1 General Registration (March 25April 28)
$50 General Registration (April 29May 24)
$60 Day Before/Day Of Registration (May 2530)

Whether youre 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 zoos most beloved species.

FAQS

* Walkers with strollers are welcome and will start in the last coral. Keep in mind that the course covers uphill, downhill, gravel, asphalt, and concrete surfaces.
* The Red Panda Run Welcomes All Ages:
- Children under age 3 are free to accompany registered parents, children will need a signed waiver. Extra waivers will be available at registration.
- Children aged 3-13 must be registered and have a registered adult accompany them.
* Member Spectators must purchase a discounted spectator ticket. Spectators will remain in the main plaza during the race and can explore the remainder of the zoo after 9am. General Spectator Admission is $20, Member Spectator Admission is $10, Spectator Children under 3 are free. Registered Runners will receive information on purchasing spectator admission tickets the week before the race.
* Please note, pets are not allowed on Zoo property and all service animals must be registered at the Zoo Ranger Station.

Races

  • Red Panda Run 5K

    Incl. $3.40 Fee & Red Panda Run Unisex 100% Cotton T-Shirt

    Sat 30th May 2026 (8:00AM EDT)

    $43.40

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Location

3500 Knoxville Zoo Drive, Knoxville, TN, USA, Knoxville, 37914, TN, United States

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May 30, 2026

$43.40