Sunset Series: Melbourne Zoo
Official WebsiteAbout This Event
Experience a summer evening run through Melbourne Zoo’s iconic wildlife habitats. Choose a 4.7 km or 7.7 km route, enjoy live music, food trucks and a sunset bar – perfect for families, beginners and seasoned runners alike.
Events & entry fees
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Wednesday 3 February
-
4.7K6:15pm$120
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7.7K7pm$120
Entry fees as listed on 14 Oct 2026. Prices often rise after early bird, so check the entry page for today's price.
Quick Facts
- Date
- Wednesday, 03 February 2027
- Terrain
- Mixed
- Location
- Melbourne Zoo, Elliott Avenue, Parkville VIC 3052
- Entry Fee
- $120
- Difficulty
- Easy to Moderate
- Start Time
- 4.7K 6:15 PM, 7.7K 7:00 PM
- Good for Beginners
- Yes – short, flat, well‑marked course suitable for all ages
Event Details
Course Description
The Sunset Series course winds through Melbourne Zoo, taking you past lions, snow leopards, dingoes and Tasmanian devils. Measured with Garmin for accuracy, the 4.7 km and 7.7 km routes are mostly flat, with a mix of paved paths and sheltered sections near the CBD. Drink stations are placed roughly every 2.5 km, and the route finishes back at the Event Village where you can celebrate your run amidst live acoustic music and refreshments.
Getting There
Melbourne Zoo is on Elliott Avenue in Parkville. Trams (Route 58) stop directly outside the zoo, while the Upfield train line serves Royal Park Station. Bus 505 from Moonee Ponds to Melbourne University also drops you nearby. Car parking is free after 5 pm in the zoo car park (paid $2 for 5 hrs before 5 pm) with overflow at the State Netball Hockey Centre. Bike racks are provided – bring your own lock. Arrive by 5 pm to explore the Event Village.
Weather & What to Pack
February is summer in Melbourne, with average highs around 20 °C and lows near 10 °C. Expect warm evenings and occasional light showers, so dress in breathable, moisture‑wicking layers and a light jacket for the cooler start. Stay hydrated, use the on‑course drink stations, and consider a hat or sunglasses for early‑evening sun.
Race details last updated 14 Oct 2026
Ready to run Sunset Series: Melbourne Zoo?
Official WebsiteFrequently Asked Questions
How do I register for the race?
Register online via the Sole Motive website. The entry fee is $120 per distance. Early‑bird pricing and series discounts are available. Check the official site for registration deadlines.
What are the start times and can I join the Priority Start?
The 4.7 km starts at 6:15 PM and the 7.7 km at 7:00 PM. Runners who expect to finish in the top 10 can enter the Priority Start – men under 4 min/km and women under 4:30 min/km.
Are there age restrictions?
For the 4.7 km, children under 8 must be accompanied by a guardian who is also entered. The 7.7 km distance is open to participants aged 8 and over.
What facilities are available on race day?
The Event Village opens at 5 PM with live acoustic music, food trucks, a Sunset Bar, free post‑race massages, and a Race Ready Store. Drink stations are located about every 2.5 km, and a bag‑drop area is provided.
What should I bring with me?
Wear comfortable running shoes and weather‑appropriate clothing. Bring a water bottle if you prefer, and use the provided bag‑drop for valuables. Your race number includes a tear‑off strip for attaching to a backpack or clothing.
parkruns near this race
Free, timed 5km every Saturday morning. A good hit-out between races.
- Parkville parkrun Sat 8:00am · 0.9 km away · Princes Hill
- Kirkdale Reserve parkrun Sat 8:00am · 3.2 km away · Brunswick East
- Maribyrnong parkrun Sat 8:00am · 5.0 km away · Maribyrnong
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