Move Your Paws 5K & 1K 2026

Move Your Paws 5K & 1K returns to Toronto on Saturday, February 21, 2026. Organized by Canada Running Series and staged at the Toronto Zoo, this edition marks the 12th year of the fundraiser-style winter run that brings families and fitness fans together to support the Zoo’s conservation work.

The event offers two distances: a 5K Run/Walk (start 9:00 a.m.) and a 1K Run/Walk (start 9:45 a.m.). Race kit pickup includes a Friday drive-through window (Feb 20, 12:00–4:00 p.m.) plus morning pickup on race day, with the 5K kit table opening at 8:15 a.m. Both distances are officially chip-timed by Enfield and carry generous time limits — 1 hour 30 minutes for the 5K and 1 hour for the 1K — making the day suitable for a wide range of paces.

What sets Move Your Paws apart is the mix of family-friendly winter atmosphere and a clear conservation focus. Every dollar raised supports the Toronto Zoo Wildlife Conservancy, with funds directed toward enrichment for the Polar Bears and Arctic wolves and ongoing conservation programs. Entry perks are concrete and locally sourced: personalized bibs, exclusive Move Your Paws mittens, post-race treats, and a sustainable wooden finisher medal designed by Rocky Yim and crafted by ChopValue. Registration also includes complimentary parking and full-day Toronto Zoo admission for participants.

Registration is open now with tiered pricing and a field cap of 1,150 participants. Runners and families who want a hands-on way to support Arctic species are encouraged to register early to secure a spot and take advantage of included Zoo admission and race-day conveniences.