Polar Paws & Santa Claws 5K and Kids' Cub Run
Participants take part in a festive 5k run or walk while dressed in holiday-themed attire and light-up accessories. Runners receive custom bibs with chip timing, wearable swag, and a commemorative finisher medal for the first 750 registrants. Following the race, participants can enjoy complimentary hot cocoa and stay to view the zoo's Lights Before Christmas display.
Sun, Dec 13, 2026 All ages
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Plan Your Visit
Tickets
5K: $35, increasing to $45 after Nov. 11, plus registration fee. Kids’ Cub Run: $15 plus registration fee. Children 2 and under are free. Registration includes participation in either race, complimentary Toledo Zoo admission for Lights Before Christmas and parking for the rest of the day, complimentary hot cocoa after the race, a Toledo Zoo concessions hot cocoa voucher, and an Ice Slide Pass for the Kids’ Run. The commemorative finisher medal and wearable Zoo swag are for the first 750 5K registrants only.
Hours
Kids’ Cub Run: 3 p.m.; 5K Race/Walk: 4 p.m.
Food & Drink
Participants are invited to enjoy complimentary hot cocoa after the race, and registration includes a Toledo Zoo concessions hot cocoa voucher.
Parking
Participants must park in the Zoo’s Anthony Wayne Trail parking lot at 2 Hippo Way, Toledo, OH 43609, then cross the pedestrian bridge. Broadway parking lot access will be blocked by road closures. Registration includes parking for the rest of the day. Neighborhood roads south of the Zoo will be closed approximately 3:45 p.m. to 5 p.m., with rolling closures.
Accessibility
Strollers are allowed; stroller users should line up at the back of the group.
Location
Tips & Advice
- Pick up your race packet at Dave’s Running Shop before race day if possible, to make race-day arrangements easier.
- Arrive at least 30 minutes before your race to cross the pedestrian bridge and reach the starting line.
- Park in the Anthony Wayne Trail lot and allow time to cross the pedestrian bridge; the Broadway lot is blocked by road closures.
- Wear holiday-themed attire and light-up accessories, which are encouraged for all participants.
- If bringing a stroller, line up at the back of the group as requested.
Special Events & Promotions
- The 5K registration price is lower before November 11.
- Children aged 2 and under are free.
- The Kids’ Cub Run is a separate registration option for children 12 and under.
- The Kids’ Cub Run includes an Ice Slide Pass.
- A commemorative medal and wearable Zoo swag are limited to the first 750 5K registrants.
Links & Contact
Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the age guidelines for the runs?
The Kids’ Cub Run is for children 12 and under. Children ages 3–12 may join the 5K if accompanied by a registered adult age 18 or over.
Where should participants park?
Use the Zoo’s Anthony Wayne Trail parking lot at 2 Hippo Way, then cross the pedestrian bridge. The Broadway parking lot will be blocked by road closures.
Can I bring a stroller?
Yes. Stroller users should line up at the back of the group.
What refreshments or activities are included?
Participants in both races are invited to enjoy complimentary hot cocoa after the race. The Kids’ Cub Run includes an Ice Slide Pass.
How can I collect my race packet?
Packet pickup is available at Dave’s Running Shop before race day, or at the Zoo’s Aquarium on race day if you cannot make the earlier pickup.
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