Riverbanks Run
Early Bird Pre-registration:
(September 1–November 1)
$30 Riverbanks members
and $40 general public.
Regular Pre-registration:
(November 2–November 13)
$45 for all registrants;
T-shirts are not guaranteed.
Pre-registration will be closed November 14–16 and will re-open onsite on November 17.
Help kick off the 31st anniversary of Lights Before Christmas by making tracks to Riverbanks’ third annual 5k race. The wild run will wind through the park’s scenic back roads, cross the Saluda River and pass some of the most popular exhibits in the Zoo! Proceeds support ongoing conservation and education efforts at Riverbanks.
Entry fees include a commemorative Riverbanks Run T-Shirt, admission into the Zoo on race day, plus complimentary snacks at the finish line. Zoo admission is required for non-race participants, and T-shirts are not guaranteed for late registration.
November 15 and 16: Packet Pick-Up from 9:00am–6:00pm inside the Guest Relations at main Zoo entrance.
November 17: Late/Day-of Registration; Race Begins at 7:30am.
Questions? View our Frequently Asked Questions and Answers.
Packet Pick-Up
Race packets include race numbers, T-shirts and other information that will be useful in advance of the race. We highly encourage all participants to pick up their packets prior to race morning to ensure the race starts on time. Packet Pick-Up is scheduled for Thursday and Friday, November 15 and 16 from 9:00am–6:00pm inside Guest Relations at the main Zoo entrance.
Can my family get into the Zoo for free if I’m a runner or walker?
Only registered racers and walkers will receive free admission into the Zoo. All participants must present race bib on race day to receive complimentary admission.
Are strollers permitted?
Strollers are permitted at the back of the 5k race.