Beats for a Cure 2026

The race.

Beats for a Cure takes place August 29, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio at the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. Participants can choose a 5K run/walk (chip-timed), 1-mile walk (untimed), or spectator option. Race day registration and packet pickup begin at 7 a.m., with both distances starting at 8:30 a.m. and awards at approximately 9:30 a.m. Registration includes a race t-shirt, participant medal, finisher snack, and all-day zoo admission. Proceeds benefit University Hospitals Rainbow Babies & Children Hospital for childhood cancer research. Age categories span from 13 and under through 70+, with awards for top finishers in each category and overall divisions. A virtual option is available for participants to complete the 5K or 1-mile distance independently by September 6, 2026.