Polar Paws & Santa Claws

Sun, Dec. 13

5K Race/Walk: 4 p.m.
Kids’ Cub Run: 3 p.m.

Get ready to move your paws at this family friendly 5k run or walk! Celebrate the season with this festive event that features a custom bib with chip timing, wearable swag, and a Toledo Zoo concessions hot cocoa voucher. The Cub Run is for kids 12 & under, and includes an ice slide pass. Following the race, participants in both races are invited to stay and enjoy complimentary hot cocoa and see the Lights Before Christmas presented by Huntington Bank.

All participants are encouraged to deck themselves out in holiday-themed attire and light-up accessories as they participate in the festivite race!

Packet Pickup

Registrants are highly encouraged to pick up their race packet at Dave's Running Shop in Sylvania prior to the event to add ease to race day. The designated packet pickup times are:

Thurs, Dec 10 & Fri, Dec 11 from 3 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. both days

If you are unable to pick up your packet during these times, race packets may be picked up inside the Toledo Zoo's Aquarium from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. on race day.

FAQ

When and where is the event?

Polar Paws and Santa Claws will be on Sunday, December 13, 2026. The 5k start time is 4 p.m. The Kids’ Cub Run start time is 3 p.m. Both will take place at the Toledo Zoo. Please see maps for specifics.

How much does registration cost?

5k
$35 (increases to $45 after Nov. 11) + registration fee

Kids’ Cub Run
$15 + registration fee

How do I get there and where do I park?

You MUST park in the Zoo’s Anthony Wayne Trail parking lot, located at 2 Hippo Way, Toledo, OH 43609. From there, you will need to cross the pedestrian bridge to the other side of the Zoo. The kids’ race will start in front of the Aquarium at 3 p.m. and the 5k run/walk will start just outside the Broadway gates at 4 p.m. Access to the Broadway parking lot will be blocked with road closures.

What time should I arrive?

We recommend that you arrive at least 30 minutes before your race to budget yourself enough time to cross the bridge and make your way to the starting line.

What is included in the registration fee?

Participation in either 5k run/walk or kids’ run
Complimentary admission to the Toledo Zoo for Lights Before Christmas and parking for the rest of the day
A commemorative finisher medal (for 5k- first 750 registrants only)
Wearable Zoo swag (for 5k- first 750 registrants only)
Complimentary hot cocoa following the race
Toledo Zoo concessions free hot cocoa voucher
Ice Slide Pass (Kids’ run only)

Are children permitted to participate in the 5k?

Registered children (ages 3-12) can participate in the 5k run or walk and must be accompanied by a registered adult (18 & over). Children 2 & under are free.

May I walk with a stroller?

Absolutely! We just ask that you line up at the back of the group to start to ensure the safety of all.

What is the refund policy?

There are no refunds on registration fees. This event is rain, snow or shine.

Can I transfer my registration to another person?

Absolutely. Please call 419-385-5721 ext. 3085 for assistance.

When and where do I pick up my race packet?

We recommend that you pick up your packet during our designated packet pickup times at Dave’s Running Shop, located at 5700 Monroe St. Sylvania, OH 43560. Thurs, Dec 10 & Fri, Dec 11 from 3pm – 6:30pm.

If you are unable to make these times, you may pick up your packet on the day of the race in the Zoo’s Aquarium from 2pm – 3:30pm.

Are spectators permitted to watch me run?

Yes, spectators will get into the Zoo for free until 4 p.m. Regular admission rates apply for entry after 4pm.

Do I have to pay for Zoo admission?

No, your registration fee includes complimentary Toledo Zoo admission for Sunday, Dec 13.

Do you need volunteers?

To learn about volunteer opportunities, please email volunteer@toledozoo.org.

When will the roads be closed for this event?

Roads in the neighborhood to the south of the Zoo will be closed from approximately 3:45pm to 5pm. Please see the event map for specifics. We are working with the Toledo Police Department to ensure that street closures follow a “rolling pattern.” As the last participant passes, the street will reopen and traffic will return to normal as quickly as possible. We appreciate your patience and understanding!

If you have any additional questions, please call 419-385-5721 ext. 3085.