Polar Bear Winter Classic

FEB

28

2026

The 44th Annual Polar Bear Winter Classic in Indianapolis on February 28, 2026 features a 5K, a 5 mile and an 8.1 mile combined event plus virtual options. Early entrants receive a finisher medal and a winter hat, with awards and a post race celebration.

Sat 28 Feb 2026

Indianapolis, Indiana

Website Registration

8 miles 5 miles 5 kilometers

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Polar Bear Winter Classic - Indianapolis

The 44th Annual Polar Bear Winter Classic takes place on February 28, 2026, in Indianapolis. The event moves to a new start location at the Fowling Warehouse and is presented by SJC Racing. It is described as one of the oldest races in Indianapolis and is scheduled in the second half of February.

The event program includes the following race options:

5K Run
5 Mile Run
The Bear (5K plus 5 Mile, total 8.1 miles) Virtual options mirror the in person distances, listed as Virtual 5K, Virtual 5 Mile, and Virtual Bear.

All runners registered before February 1 receive a finisher medal and a "Wear the Bear" winter hat. Optional apparel such as a long sleeve shirt and a hoodie are available as add on items during registration or from the race store.

The event offers cash prizes and age group awards for each of the three distance options. A post race celebration is planned to take place inside the Fowling Warehouse. The published event address is 1125 E Brookside Ave d9, Indianapolis, IN 46202, United States. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

8 mi

The Bear (5k + 5 Mile = Both Races)

5 mi

5 Mile Run

5 km

5k Run