• SATURDAY, MAY 16th, 2026

    SATURDAY, MAY 16th, 2026

  • RUN BOLD. RUN WILD.

    The Run Wild 5K is a 5K run/walk on May 16, 2026, at the OC Zoo in Irvine Regional Park, and benefits the Orange County Parks Foundation. All participants will run through the OC Zoo and receive free zoo entry after

    the event.

    The OC Zoo is home to more than 100 animals, including a black bear, jaguar, mountain lions, a bald eagle, kit fox, ocelot, beaver, great horned owl, and more. Many of the animals are injured, orphaned, confiscated, or not releasable to the wild. The zoo also features a barnyard with domestic goats and sheep.

    Join us for this one-of-a-kind experience and help us raise funds to support these amazing animals.

    Schedule of Events

    Race & Pick Up Date: May 16, 2026

    Registration & Festival Opens: 6:30 a.m.

    Opening Ceremonies Begin: 7:15 a.m.

    5K Walk/Run Starts: 7:30 a.m.

    1K/Kids Walk/Run Starts: 8:30 a.m.

    Event Concludes: 11 a.m.

    LOCATION:

    1 Irvine Park Rd, Orange, CA 92869

  • 5K Run/Walk Course

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  • 1k/Kids Run Course

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  • The OC Zoo is open 10 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. Saturday-Sunday

    Admission is $2 per person for ages 3 and older

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  • Costume Contest

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    Proud Sponsor

    IRVINE PARK RAILROAD

    Located within the scenic grounds of Irvine Regional Park in Orange County, the Irvine Park Railroad is a beloved family attraction that offers a charming, nostalgic train ride through one of California’s oldest parks. Founded in 1996, the railroad features a one-third-scale train that takes passengers on a relaxing loop past oak groves, open meadows, and natural landscapes, making it especially popular with children and visitors seeking a peaceful outdoor experience. Beyond the train ride, the area is part of a larger recreational destination that includes activities like bike and paddle boat rentals, pony rides, and access to the nearby zoo, creating a full day of family-friendly entertainment. With seasonal events such as pumpkin patches and holiday-themed train rides, the Irvine Park Railroad has become a staple of Orange County tradition, blending classic amusement with the natural beauty and historic charm of the park

  • Parking Map

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  • FAQs

    Bib Pick Up - Participants can pick up their Bib and Shirt on Saturday, May 16, on-site Race Day, starting at 6:20 a.m.

    Directions - 1 Irvine Park Road, Orange, CA 92869 - Get Directions

    Parking - OC Park fee of $5 per vehicle entry, BUT let the gate attendant know you are there for the race for a FREE entrance. Follow the park signage for all parking lots near the Zoo (use the map above for allotted parking lots).

    Can I run with my Dog? - Due to safety reasons, the race does not allow participants to run with dogs.

    Can I run with a stroller? - Yes, however, we ask you to be mindful of your fellow participants and give yourself plenty of room. Please start at the back of the pack

    Do parents need to sign up for the 1K/Kids Run to run with their child? - Only one parent may participate with their child in the course. Parents do not need to register for the 1K/Kids Run to run alongside their child on the course, but only participants with a bib will receive a shirt and medal.

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