Race Series

The Cleveland Metroparks Race Series presented by CrossCountry Mortgage is back! This year’s race and walk series features seven races across Cleveland Metroparks and Cleveland Metroparks Zoo and is designed to encourage exploration and exercise throughout the year. The 2026 series kicks-off with the Earth Day 5K at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo on April 18 at 8:30 a.m. Pre-registration is now available through April 17 and participants receive entry into the Zoo, refreshments, a custom race shirt and a finisher medal. A portion of the proceeds from the Earth Day 5K support green practices and sustainability efforts at the Zoo. Following the race, families can explore Party for the Planet presented by NOPEC at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, a day-long Earth Day celebration with special programming for the whole family.

Additional races for the 2026 series include:

  • After Hours 5K at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo | July 21: Details yet to be announced
  • Whiskey Island 5K | August 23: Explore the Whiskey Island Trail and Wendy Park to benefit Cleveland Metroparks K-9 unit.
  • Future For Wildlife 5K | October 4: Help Cleveland Metroparks Zoo secure a future for wildlife by running for conservation efforts to protect animals in the wild.
  • Halloween 5k | October 24: Dress in costume for a one-of-a-kind race through the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo.
  • Veterans 5K | November 8: Walk or run through Edgewater Beach in honor of our nation’s veterans.
  • Ugly Sweater 5K | December 6: Join a spirited holiday race through Cleveland Metroparks Zoo.

Pre-registration for each race is $30, or take the CrossCountry Mortgage challenge and sign up for all seven races to save $35.