Wild Strides 5K Presented by Triangle

Celebrate Earth Day with John Ball Zoo’s Wild Strides 5K presented by Triangle! This unique evening event brings together runners, walkers, families, and conservation enthusiasts to support the Zoo’s mission of saving wildlife and wild places.

The 5K course begins at the Zoo and joins the scenic Kent Trail and finishes inside the Zoo, running past the stunning Grand Rapids Lantern Festival displays for a truly one-of-a-kind race experience. All 5K participants receive an official race t-shirt, finisher medal, and a ticket to attend the 2026 Lantern Festival.

Young runners can participate in the Wolverine Worldwide Youth Half-Mile, a fun and energetic race designed just for kids. Youth participants receive a race t-shirt and finisher medal.

The celebration begins at 5:30 PM with a lively pre- and post-race party featuring face painting, inflatables, music  and local favorites Taquero Mucho Food Truck, Pizza Parliament and Kona Ice. Come early, stay late, and enjoy the full Wild Strides experience.

Wild Strides is more than just a race — it’s a celebration of community, conservation, and kicking off Earth Day together.

📍 EVENT DETAILS 

DATE: Tuesday, April 21

LOCATION: John Ball Zoo: 1300 Fulton Street West, Grand Rapids, MI 49504

SCHEDULE: 

• Packet Pickup & Pre Race Festivities - 5:00 PM
• Kids Half Mile - 6:00 PM
• 5K Race - 7:00 PM
• 5K Fun Run/Walk - 7:10 PM

🅿️ PARKING: All participants should park in the John Ball Zoo parking lots

• Parking is free for all participants and spectators.
• When you arrive, you may need to take a ticket at the gate, but no payment or validation is required.
• Exit gates will open automatically on race night.
• Please follow directional signage and staff guidance
• We recommend arriving early to allow time for parking & check-in