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 7, 2025
Time: 7:30A 
Distance: 5K, 10K & Kids 1/2 Mile
Location: Downtown Wheaton

5K Race Registration: $35 early-bird pricing through 4/30, $40 beginning 5/1 through 6/6, and $45 on race day (6/7)
10K Race Registration: $40 early-bird pricing through 4/30, $45 beginning 5/1 through 6/6 and $50 on race day (6/7)
Kids' 1/2 Mile Race Registration: $20 (ages 4-10) through 6/6, $25 on race day (6/7)

If you register for the 10K, you can opt to switch your registration to the 5K by emailing events@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 7. 

NEW IN 2025

• 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 2026 event, a Dick Pond gift card, and bragging rights! Data was pulled from 1998 - present.
  • 5K Male | 15:08 (2010)
  • 5K Female | 18:15 (2004)
  • 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 5 | 10A-7P | Wheaton Park District Community Center (1777 S Blanchard St, Wheaton, IL 60189)
 - Saturday, June 7 | 6:30 - 7:15A | Memorial Park (225 Karlskoga Ave., Wheaton, IL 60187)