2026 Race for the Planet hosted by the NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher (NCAFF) is more than your ordinary 5K, it’s an invigorating reminder of how everyone has a part in protecting the planet and this year, it’s during the 50th anniversary of the North Carolina Aquariums. Runners are invited to run with a purpose on Sunday, April 19 at 8 a.m. at Battle Acre Park and then stay a bit to celebrate at a post-run festival. The Aquarium is part of the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.
“Our race brings together runners of all levels and ages, teams, families and friend’s groups who are inspired to get moving for themselves and for the planet,” said Joanna Zazzali, NCAFF director. “We are excited to welcome everyone for a special race this year in honor of our 50 years of inspiring wonder.”
The race includes a 5K through the picturesque Fort Fisher historic area, meandering along the Atlantic Ocean and returning to Battle Acre. There is also a one-mile fun run. This is a slightly different route as the Aquarium is undergoing a transformative renovation and expansion. The post-run festival will feature putt-putt golf, story time with Mr. Scooter, carnival games and food trucks. The 50th anniversary festival is open to the community.
Anyone interested in the family-friendly 5K and fun run should register at Race for the Planet. Race proceeds support NCAFF through the NC Aquarium Society, a non-profit (501c3) organization dedicated to supporting the North Carolina Aquariums.
About the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher
The North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher is just south of Kure Beach, a short drive from Wilmington on U.S. 421 and less than a mile from the Fort Fisher ferry terminal. The Aquarium is one of three Aquariums and a pier that make up the North Carolina Aquariums, a division of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. The mission of the Aquarium is to inspire appreciation and conservation of our aquatic environments. The Aquarium features a 235-000-gallon sand tiger shark habitat, an albino alligator, a bald eagle, a loggerhead sea turtle habitat and two families of mischievous Asian small-clawed otters.
Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Admission: $15 ages 13-61; $13 children ages 3-12; $14 seniors (62 and older) and military with valid identification; NC EBT card holders: $3. Free admission for children 2 and younger and N.C. Aquarium Society members and N.C. Zoo members. *EBT rate is applicable to a maximum of four tickets.
About the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources
The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) manages, promotes, and enhances the things that people love about North Carolina — its diverse arts and culture, rich history, and spectacular natural areas. At more than 100 sites across the state, the department enhances education, stimulates economic development, improves public health, expands accessibility, and strengthens community resiliency. For more information, please visit www.dncr.nc.gov.