Cosley Zoo Run for the Animals 2026

The Cosley Zoo Run for the Animals 5K/10K & Kids 1/2 Mile is hosted by the Cosley Foundation to support Cosley Zoo's exhibit development projects, public programs and conservation projects.

Date: Saturday, June 6, 2026
Time: 7:30A 
Distance: 5K, 10K & Kids 1/2 Mile
Location: Downtown Wheaton

5K Race Registration: $35 early-bird pricing through 4/29, $40 beginning 4/30 through 6/5, and $45 on race day (6/6)
10K Race Registration: $40 early-bird pricing through 4/29, $45 beginning 4/30 through 6/5 and $50 on race day (6/6)
Kids 1/2 Mile Race Registration: $20 (ages 4-10) through 6/5, $25 on race day (6/6)

If you register for the 10K, you can opt to switch your registration to the 5K by emailing jackerman@wheatonparks.org. No refunds will be issued to switch from the 10K to the 5K. If you register for the 5K and opt to switch your registration to a 10K, you will be charged an additional $5 fee.

Please note that if you sign up for the virtual race, you are opting not to participate in person on June 6. 

FEATURED IN 2026

• Course Record Award: Are you motivated to beat the Cosley Run for the Animals course records? Beat one of the course records below for your chance to win a free race registration for the 2027 event, a Dick Pond gift card, and bragging rights! Data was pulled from 1998 - present.
  • 5K Male | 15:08 (2010)
  • 5K Female | 17:42 (2025)
  • 10K Male | 30:15 (2015)
  • 10K Female | 37:10 (2005)
• Sub 7:00min/mi Corral: If you anticipate running a pace of 7:00min/mi or less, there will be a designated corral to ensure the race begins safely. Runners who begin in this corral will have a yellow bib. Only runners with yellow bibs will be able to start in this area. 
• VOLUNTEER INCENTIVE: Volunteer with us! All volunteers will get a t-shirt, breakfast, and a Cream of Wheaton drink voucher.

Packet Pick-Up:
 - Thursday, June 4 | 10A-7P | Central Athletic Complex (500 S. Naperville Rd, Wheaton, IL 60187)
 - Saturday, June 6 | 6:30 - 7:15A | Memorial Park (225 Karlskoga Ave., Wheaton, IL 60187)

Join fellow runners on June 6, 2026 for the Cosley Zoo Run for the Animals 2026. It's a fantastic 5K, 10K, 3.2K featuring a flat and fast course in Wheaton.