On your mark. Get set. 

Run Wild.

Join us at Run Wild for the Detroit Zoo, presented by Michigan First Credit Union, and make a meaningful impact on the animals who call the Zoo home! This annual event helps raise critical funds to support vital veterinary care for your favorite animals.

You can participate in one of two ways:

• 5K Run – A timed, competitive race that takes you on a thrilling course, finishing inside the Detroit Zoo.
• Fun Walk – A non-competitive, leisurely walk inside the Zoo perfect for families, friends, and anyone who wants to enjoy the experience at their own pace.

Want to cheer on your friends and family at the finish line? Grab a spectator admission add-on at checkout and be there to celebrate their big moment at the finish line inside the Zoo!

All participants receive:

• A commemorative Run Wild for the Detroit Zoo T-shirt*
• A unique, collectible finisher medal highlighting Jagger the sloth bear*
• Admission to the Detroit Zoo following the race
• Access to the Post Race Party featuring food, a cash bar, live entertainment, photo opportunities, children’s activities and more!
• Free admission to our exclusive special event trail where imagination runs wild — stay tuned for more details!  

*Not included with spectator admission
**T-shirt availability is not guaranteed for registration after Sept. 1. 

New This Year, Fundraising is Here!

All Run Wild participants now have the chance to raise funds that directly support the Ruth Roby Glancy Animal Health Complex. Sign up as an individual or team, then rally your family and friends to join the cause! The top fundraiser will score an amazing prize, and anyone who raises more than $150 will earn FREE entry into this year's race. Let’s Run Wild for a great cause! 
 

Meet This Year’s Mascot

Join the race to victory with Jagger the sloth bear! Did you know sloth bears can run up to 20 miles per hour in the wild? That makes Jagger the ultimate Run Wild mascot! Complete the race to earn your exclusive Jagger-themed medal, then swing by her habitat in the Zoo to meet her in person and discover why she's the perfect racing buddy.

Volunteer

Volunteer course marshals cheer runners on as they run the course through the quiet neighborhood streets of Huntington Woods, just north of the Zoo. Course marshals are stationed at intersections along the route to encourage runners and ensure everyone is safe! 
The volunteer shift time is 6:30-9:45 a.m. Volunteers must be 18 years of age or older. 

To register as a Run Wild Course Marshall Volunteer, please click the button below.
To learn more, contact volunteer@dzs.org 

Why We Run

By participating in Run Wild, runners make a meaningful impact by raising critical funds for the Zoo’s Ruth Roby Glancy Animal Health Complex. Every step taken helps provide outstanding veterinary care for the animals in our care, ensuring they receive the treatment and support they need to thrive.