Wisconsin News
The 45th Annual Samson Stomp & Romp returns this January to the Milwaukee County Zoo
A winter tradition returns — with a new route! — as the Milwaukee County Zoo marks the 45th annual Samson Stomp & Romp presented by Prairie Farms Dairy on Sunday, Jan. 19, 2025. Runners and walkers of all ages are invited to join in this popular event, honoring one of the Zoo’s most famous and beloved residents, Samson, the silverback gorilla (1950-1981). Money raised from the event supports all the animals in the Zoo’s population.
The 5K competitive run kicks off at 9:30 a.m., followed by a 2-mile fun run/walk at 10:15 a.m. Children can join a 1-mile romp at 10:45 a.m.
Also new this year, in celebration of the opening of the recently-renovated Humboldt penguin habitat, Penguins of the Pacific, participants in the 1-mile romp will receive a penguin drawstring backpack. And in celebration of this 45th anniversary of the event, 5K finishers who place in “45th” placements — 45, 145, 245, 345, etc. — will get a $25 gift card to Performance Running Outfitters.
PRE-REGISTRATION FEES
5K/2-Mile: $35 per participant
5K Team Member: $30 per runner
Children’s 1-Mile Romp: $20 per participant
RACE DAY REGISTRATION FEES
(8 a.m. to 9 a.m. Sunday, January 19)
$40 per participant
The 5K race is limited to 1,500 participants, so be sure to register early to ensure a spot! (Those registering on race day may need to pick-up their T-shirt at a later date.)
Online registration is open for all races until noon on January 15, 2025. The 5K race may sell out prior to this date. Entry fees to the Samson Stomp & Romp include a long-sleeved T-shirt, Zoo admission, beverage, snack, and parking. After the event, participants are invited to enjoy the remainder of the day at the Zoo.
The event will be held rain or shine, snow or cold; however, the Milwaukee County Zoo reserves the right to cancel due to severe weather or dangerous, unforeseen race conditions. No refunds will be given.
The 5K race is officially timed; results will be publicly available in person and online after the race. All races take place on public walkways throughout the Zoo. Due to safety concerns, no strollers, in-line skates, or similar devices permitted.
During the event, take part in the Zoo’s mission of conservation by donating your old cell phones for recycling. The drop-off area is located in the Zoo’s U.S. Bank Gathering Place. Recycling cell phones reduces the need for additional coltan, a mineral extracted from the forests of Congo – home to critically endangered lowland gorillas. The coltan mining business has led to a dramatic reduction of the gorillas’ natural habitat.
For more information about the Samson Stomp & Romp and FAQs, please visit milwaukeezoo.org.