CONTACT:
Kyle Shepherd; 502-744-5639; Kyle.shepherd@louisvilleky.gov
Today, Mayor Craig Greenberg and the Louisville Zoo are excited to announce that Throo the Zoo registration is now open. This most unique 5K is a great way to kick off 2026 with a goal you can run toward.
“I’m excited for our community to come together for another year of Throo the Zoo,” said Mayor Greenberg. “This beloved tradition is one that every member of the family can enjoy whether you are running, walking, or strolling past your favorite animals while supporting our world-class zoo.”
Louisville’s wildest 5K takes place at 8 a.m. Saturday, May 9. The annual event is a one-of-a-kind experience, allowing participants to run or walk through the Zoo while supporting its mission to “better the bond between people and our planet.”
The Throo the Zoo 5k Run/Walk takes participants on a chip-timed course that winds through the Zoo’s exhibits, offering views of some animals including bears, giraffes and sloths. The event welcomes runners and walkers of all fitness levels, including guests with strollers.
To register/secure your spot for this important Zoo fundraiser, go to louisvillezoo.org/throo.
Registration fee timetable:
Through February 28: $35.
March 1 – 31: $40.
April 1 – May 8: $45
Race-day registration on May 9 will cost $55.
Registration includes a t-shirt with an option to upgrade to a tech shirt for an additional fee, commemorative finishers medals, post-race refreshments and a ticket to return to the Zoo for a future visit.
For those unable to attend in person or who prefer to complete the distance at another location, the Zoo offers a Throo the Zoo Virtual 5K. Virtual participants can run or walk the 5K on their time and course, and they will receive a finisher’s medal and a Zoo ticket for a future visit.
Pricing for the virtual option starts at $25 through February 28.
Virtual 5K timetable:
March 1 – March 31: $30
April 1 – May 9: $35
Zoo Hours
The Zoo is open daily year-round. Now through March 20, 2026, hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with guests exiting by 5 p.m. The Zoo is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. Visit louisvillezoo.org for more information.
About the Zoo
The Louisville Zoo, the State Zoo of Kentucky, is the top, non-profit, paid attraction in the state. The Zoo is dedicated to bettering the bond between people and our planet by providing excellent care for animals, a great experience for visitors, and leadership in scientific research and conservation education. The Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and is a member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA), a global alliance of zoos and aquariums. For more information visit www.louisvillezoo.org.
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