The Riverview Park & Zoo Fun Run and Walk returns to Peterborough, Ontario on Saturday, September 26th for its third year of supporting a fantastic cause. This family-friendly event offers participants the chance to choose their pace and distance—1km or 5km walk/run—and adds an extra layer of fun with prizes for best animal costumes. The setting on race morning is serene; Riverview Park & Zoo, located in the heart of Peterborough's northern neighborhood, transforms into a vibrant hub. The park’s lush greenery and winding paths provide a picturesque backdrop for runners and walkers alike. This year, all funds raised will support the creation of a fully accessible playground at the zoo, ensuring that every child can enjoy its fun. For those who love to run or simply walk through scenic routes, this event is an opportunity not just to exercise but also to contribute positively to their community. The 1km and 5km options cater to both casual walkers and seasoned runners, making it a perfect day out for the whole family. The course venue is the familiar path of Riverview Park, with its varied terrain that includes gentle hills and well-maintained trails. Runners will start at the park's main entrance on Bridge Street North near downtown Peterborough before heading into the zoo area. The route features notable landmarks such as the zoo’s entrance gates, offering participants a memorable journey. Aid stations are strategically placed along the course to ensure that runners can stay hydrated and fueled throughout their run or walk. The 5km race includes one aid station at approximately the three-kilometer mark, while the 1km option offers a brief stop midway through for water and snacks. This year’s event also highlights its fully accessible playground as an additional feature. On September 26th, expect cool to mild weather with temperatures ranging from 12.3C to 22.8C, feeling like 17.5C on race day. The average wind speed is around 9 km/h, and humidity levels are at a comfortable 75.6%, making for pleasant conditions as you run or walk.
1km Run or Walk 1km • Start: 08:00:00 • Fee: CA$23.83
5km Run or Walk 5km • Start: 08:00:00 • Fee: CA$40.02
Registration opens early with limited spots available; the event is capped at only 500 participants to ensure a personalized experience. Visit https://raceroster.com/events/2026/117031/riverview-park-and-zoo-fun-run-and-walk for registration, which costs CA$40.02 for the 5km and CA$23.83 for the 1km option. Early bird deadlines are strict, so don’t delay! Participants must register before September 1st to secure their spot and receive race bibs at the pickup event on Friday, September 25th from 4pm-7pm at Riverview Park’s main entrance on Bridge Street North. First-timers should bring proof of age for minor participants and ensure they have a change of clothes if needed. The Riverview Park & Zoo Fun Run and Walk is not just another race; it's an event that supports the creation of a fully accessible playground, making Peterborough more inclusive. With its family-friendly atmosphere and scenic route through the park, this year’s event promises to be memorable for all who participate.
Races Offered
1km Run or Walk
Sep 26, 2026
straighten
Distance —
1km
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
08:00
sell
$23.83
5km Run or Walk
Sep 26, 2026
straighten
Distance —
5km
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
08:00
sell
$40.02
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for September in Peterborough.
thermostatTemperature
12.2° / 22.7°
wb_sunnyFeels like
10.9° / 21.6°
light_mode
Avg sunshine hours
10h 18m
water_drop
Avg rainfall
1.8 mm
ac_unit
Avg snowfall
—
air
Avg wind speed
9.0 km/h (Light breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
Moderate
terrain
Course conditions
Firm and slightly soft
sunny
Max UV Index
Moderate (5.0)
humidity_mid
Humidity
75.6%
wb_twilight
Sunrise
06:52
nightlight
Sunset
19:22
About Peterborough
Learn more about the host city, Peterborough.
The City of Peterborough is considered the hub of the Kawarthas, and is the region's major business, education, cultural, and health care centre. This is a varied community -- a retirement city, but at the same time a university and college city. It has a permanent population of approximately 81,000 (2016).