The Run Wild 5K is a 5K run/walk on November 7th, 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.

Race & Pick Up Date: November 7, 2026

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

Opening Ceremonies Begin: 7:15 a.m.

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

Costume Contest: 8:15 a.m.

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

Event Concludes: 11 a.m.

LOCATION:

1 Irvine Park Rd, Orange, CA 92869

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

Bib Pick Up - Participants can pick up their Bib and Shirt on Saturday, November 7, on-site Race Day, starting at 6:20 a.m.

Directions - 1 Irvine Park Road, Orange, CA 92869 - Get Directions - Once in the park, follow the signage up to the zoo.

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. Only participants with a bib will receive a shirt and a medal.

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.