2026 Polar Bear Winter Classic - Official Event Logo
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Indianapolis, Indiana, United States
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Road
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5 km, 5 miles, 13 km
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Saturday, 28 February 2026
The 2026 Polar Bear Winter Classic, the 44th Annual event, will take place on February 28, 2026, in Indianapolis, Indiana. The race will start and finish at the Fowling Warehouse Indianapolis, located at 1125 E Brookside Ave d9, Indianapolis, IN 46202. On this date, Indianapolis typically experiences cold temperatures with a high of around 32°F (0°C) and a low of 18°F (-8°C). Wind chills may lower the perceived temperature, so participants should prepare for winter conditions. The event is a road course featuring a 5K run, a 5-mile run, and a combined challenge known as "The Bear." Participants can choose to run one distance or complete both for a total of 8.1 miles. The event is organized by SJC Racing and includes post-race celebrations, awards, and swag for registrants.
What distances are available for this event?
→5K Run starting at 8:30 AM
→5 Mile Run starting at 9:15 AM
→The Bear (5K + 5 Mile Combo) starting at 8:30 AM
What are the registration fees for this event?
→5K Run: $50
→5 Mile Run: $55
→The Bear (5K + 5 Mile Combo): $60
→Virtual 5K: $40
→Virtual 5 Mile: $40
→Virtual Bear: $50
What are the start times for each event?
→5K Run: 8:30 AM
→5 Mile Run: 9:15 AM
→The Bear: 8:30 AM (starts with the 5K)
What is included in the registration for this event?
→Finisher medal for the first 1,000 registrants
→"Wear the Bear" winter hat for the first 1,000 registrants
→Optional long sleeve shirts and hoodies available for purchase
→Cash prizes and age group awards for all three distances
What are the rules for participants in this event?
→Dogs are allowed in the 5K race only, and must be on a leash at all times.
→Dogs must start at the back of the pack.
→Walkers are encouraged to participate.
→5 Mile Walkers must maintain a 16-minute-per-mile pace.
→The Bear Walkers must complete the 5K portion within 45 minutes of the start gun.
What are the requirements for virtual participants?
→Virtual 5K, Virtual 5 Mile, and Virtual Bear options are available.
→Registration fees for virtual events range from $40 to $50.
Are there any specific requirements for the "The Bear" challenge?
→Participants must run both the 5K and 5 Mile races consecutively.
→The Bear starts at the same time as the 5K race.
→Walkers participating in The Bear must complete the 5K portion under 45 minutes from the gun.
What is the course layout for this event?
→The course is a road event starting from the Fowling Warehouse Indianapolis.
→Specific turn-by-turn directions are not provided, but the post-race celebration will be held at the venue.
What is the expected weather for this event?
→Indianapolis typically experiences cold temperatures in late February, with a high of around 32°F (0°C) and a low of 18°F (-8°C).
→Wind chills may lower the perceived temperature, so participants are advised to dress appropriately for winter conditions.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When is 2026 Polar Bear Winter Classic?
A: The event takes place on 28 February 2026.
Q: Where is the event held?
A: The event is held in Indianapolis, United States.
