Bayou Bend Fitness Center Running of the Bears 2026 – Franklin, LA 2026

Date
April 25, 2026
Location
Franklin, LA
Venue
Franklin Pocket Park
Start Time
8:00 AM
Entry Fee
$20.00 – $30.00
Events
Running of the Bears 5K Run/Walk, Running of the Bears 5K Ruck, Running of the Bears 1-Mile Fun Run/Walk
Includes
T-shirt
Register NowRegistration Open

The Bayou Bend Fitness Center Running of the Bears 2026 is a 1-mile running and ruck event held in Franklin, Louisiana on April 25, 2026. The race starts at 8:00 AM from Franklin Pocket Park. Entry fees range from $20 to $30, making it an affordable local option for runners and athletes looking for a short, accessible race. The one-mile distance suits beginners, those doing speed work, or athletes seeking a quick weekend event before heading to longer competitions. Franklin's location in south-central Louisiana provides easy access for regional participants.

From the Race Organizer
Join Us for the Running of the Bears! Saturday, April 25th · 8:00 AM Historic Downtown Franklin, Louisiana Get ready for a fun and scenic morning in the heart of downtown Franklin as we kick off the Bayou Teche Black Bear Festival with the Running of the Bears! Choose your challenge—a 5K (3.1 miles) or a 1-mile fun run/walk/ruck—and enjoy the unique sights along the way: iconic lamp posts, majestic live oaks, elegant antebellum homes, and the vibrant wildlife of Bayou Teche. Whether you’re running, rucking, or walking, this event welcomes all ages and fitness levels! Bring your energy, lace up your shoes, and let’s make this a morning to remember! ✨ AWARDS: Kids 10 and under will receive a special medal for participating! ️ 1-Mile Fun Run/Walk Awards include: Overall Winner: 1st & 2nd Place – Male & Female Age 8 & Under: 1st & 2nd Place – Male & Female Age 9–12: 1st & 2nd Place – Male & Female ️ 5K Race Awards include: Overall Winner: 1st & 2nd Place – Male & Female Age 19 & Under

Hotels Near This Race

Find accommodation close to the start line in Franklin, LA. Sorted by distance from the race venue. Book early — race weekend hotels fill fast.

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Bayou Bend Fitness Center Running of the Bears 2026 – Franklin, LA 2026

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Race Travel Insurance

Don't forget travel insurance for April 25.

You've trained for months and booked a trip to Franklin, LA. 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
  • Emergency medical up to $250,000
  • Cancel For Any Reason add-on available
  • 24/7 real-time support
Get a Quote — Faye Travel Insurance

Affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no cost to you. Coverage terms vary by state and plan. Review policy details before purchase.

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Frequently Asked Questions

When is Bayou Bend Fitness Center Running of the Bears 2026 – Franklin, LA 2026?

Bayou Bend Fitness Center Running of the Bears 2026 – Franklin, LA 2026 takes place on April 25, 2026. The race is held in Franklin, Louisiana.

Where is Bayou Bend Fitness Center Running of the Bears 2026 – Franklin, LA 2026 held?

Bayou Bend Fitness Center Running of the Bears 2026 – Franklin, LA 2026 is held at Franklin Pocket Park in Franklin, Louisiana.

Where can I find hotels near Bayou Bend Fitness Center Running of the Bears 2026 – Franklin, LA 2026?

RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in Franklin. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.