It’s Time to Register for Samson Stomp 2026 at the Milwaukee County Zoo…
A beloved winter tradition is returning to the Milwaukee County Zoo. The annual Samson Stomp takes place on Sunday, January 18, 2026, inviting runners and walkers of all ages to participate in a unique race experience through the Zoo.
This popular event honors Samson, the Zoo’s iconic silverback gorilla (1950–1981), and raises funds to support the care and conservation of animals at the Milwaukee County Zoo.
Event Details
Date: Sunday, January 18, 2026
Location: Milwaukee County Zoo
Presented by: Prairie Farms Dairy
Participants will race along public walkways throughout the Zoo, passing animal habitats along the way. Registration includes Zoo admission, so families can enjoy the Zoo for the rest of the day after the race.
Choose From Three Race Options
- 5K Competitive Run – 9:30 a.m.
- 2-Mile Fun Run/Walk – 10:15 a.m.
- 1-Mile Romp for Children – 10:45 a.m.
The 5K race is officially timed, with results available both in person and online after the event.
Registration Fees
Pre-Registration
- 5K or 2-Mile Race: $35 per participant
- 5K Team Member: $30 per participant
- 1-Mile Children’s Race: $20 per participant
- Parking: Included (a $15 value)
Race Day Registration
Available from 8:00–9:00 a.m. on Sunday, January 18, 2026:
-
$40 per participant (includes parking)
Important Notes:
- The 5K race is limited to 1,500 participants. Early registration is strongly encouraged.
- Participants who register on race day may need to pick up their event T-shirt at a later date.
What’s Included With Registration
All registered participants receive:
- A long-sleeved commemorative T-shirt
- Zoo admission for the day
- Beverage and snack
- Parking
After finishing the race, families are welcome to stay and explore the Zoo.
Weather and Safety Information
The Samson Stomp will take place rain or shine, snow or cold. The Milwaukee County Zoo reserves the right to cancel the event due to severe weather or unsafe conditions. No refunds will be issued.
For safety reasons, strollers, in-line skates, and similar devices are not permitted on the race course.
Support Conservation Efforts
During the event, participants are encouraged to donate old cell phones for recycling. The drop-off location will be at the Zoo’s U.S. Bank Gathering Place.
Recycling cell phones helps reduce the demand for coltan, a mineral mined in the forests of the Congo—home to critically endangered lowland gorillas. Coltan mining has significantly contributed to habitat loss, making this an easy way for families to support wildlife conservation.
Register Now
Spots for this popular winter event fill quickly. To learn more or register, visit:
https://milwaukeezoo.org/visit/upcoming-events/samson-stomp/
If you hear thundering footsteps at the Zoo this January, it’s not a stampede—it’s Samson Stomp.
