Entry to the Essex County Turtle Back Zoo Penguin Waddle ranges from $10 to $45, with the race starting at 8:30 AM on October 18, 2026. The 3-mile event takes place at Turtle Back Zoo in West Orange, New Jersey, located at 560 Northfield Avenue. This race offers endurance athletes a chance to complete a moderate distance run in an accessible price range, making it an option for runners seeking a fall event in the New Jersey area.
From the Race Organizer
Join the Essex County Turtle Back Zoo and Fleet Feet Montclair for a wild morning of miles and fun! 📅 Sunday, October 18 ⏰ 8:30 AM 📍 Essex County Turtle Back Zoo Get ready to waddle, run, or walk your way through a 3.5-mile course (or take the 2ish mile Safari Shortcut) before crossing the finish line inside the Zoo for a one-of-a-kind celebration! 🎟️ Post-run Essex County Turtle Back Zoo admission is included with registration. Stick around after the run to explore and say hello to the animals. 🎁 The first 300 participants to register will receive custom pom-pom beanie (a $35 value) This event is perfect for the whole family—whether you sprint like a cheetah, stroll like a tortoise, or waddle like a penguin, everyone’s invited to join the fun. 👟 Costumes, animal spirit, and family smiles are highly encouraged! ZOO MEMBERS SPECTATING: Zoo members do not need to purchase a spectator pass to enter the Zoo early. Simply show proof of your valid Essex County Turtle Back Zoo membership at packet pick-up (either on Friday or event morning) for early admission. PARTICIPANTS: Essex County Turtle Back Zoo members should use the $5 member promo code that was emailed by the Zoo when registering for the event. If you can't locate the email, please contact the Zoo or reach out to us before registering. PACKET PICK-UP Early Pick-Up (Recommended!) 📍 Fleet Feet Montclair – 603 Bloomfield Ave, Montclair, NJ 07043 📅 Saturday, October 17 ⏰ 12:00 – 4:00 PM Event Day Pick-Up 📍 Location TBA 📅 Sunday, October 18 ⏰ 7:30 – 8:30 AM SPECTATORS: Want to cheer on your family and friends at the finish line inside the Zoo? Spectators will need an Official Spectator Pass to enter the Zoo early before it opens to the public. We’re offering a special discounted $10 rate (normally $22) so you can join the finish line celebration and explore the Zoo afterward. Day of spectator passes will be available for purchase at the start and zoo entrance. PARKING: Please park in the lots and parking decks at the Turtle Back Zoo. This is not an official race. There is no event timing. Details are subject to change.
Hotels Near This Race
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Essex County Turtle Back Zoo Penguin Waddle 2026 — West Orange, NJ
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Race Travel Insurance
Don't forget travel insurance for October 18.
You've trained for months and booked a trip to West Orange, NJ.
A pre-race injury, a delayed flight, or a family emergency can derail the whole thing.
Travel insurance can help cover your race entry fee, hotel, and flights if you can't make it,
and may cover medical costs if something goes wrong on the course. Plans typically only run
5-7% of your total trip cost — and running events are covered under standard plans with no
additional coverage needed.
Trip cancellation up to 100% of prepaid costs
Running events covered under standard plans — no add-ons needed
Trip interruption up to 150% of non-refundable costs
When is Essex County Turtle Back Zoo Penguin Waddle 2026 — West Orange, NJ?
Essex County Turtle Back Zoo Penguin Waddle 2026 — West Orange, NJ takes place on October 18, 2026. The race is held in West Orange, New Jersey.
Where is Essex County Turtle Back Zoo Penguin Waddle 2026 — West Orange, NJ held?
Essex County Turtle Back Zoo Penguin Waddle 2026 — West Orange, NJ is held at 560 Northfield Ave in West Orange, New Jersey.
Where can I find hotels near Essex County Turtle Back Zoo Penguin Waddle 2026 — West Orange, NJ?
RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in West Orange. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.
