All racers arrive in their banana suits ready to take on the race course. Alone they are a lonely banana, but together the group is a mighty bunch! This is a mass start event with all bananas splitting at the gun start.
After two minutes we release our “Gorilla” this person is dressed in their very own gorilla costume and has one objective. Chase and beat the bananas. The Gorilla is a hidden racer chosen by our leadership team.
If you have what it takes to beat the Gorilla $5 of your entry fee will be donated to a local charity dedicated to improving food security in the Twin Ports. You will also receive the Champions Pin showcasing your achievement.
After the race join us for a celebration! We will have food, drinks, and more for ALL the bananas that came out to party. Grab yourself some banana ice cream, a tasty beer, or enjoy yourself a well-deserved banana.
Unlike other fun runs, the Going Bananas Run comes with a mission and a reward: beat the Gorilla to the finish line! Every banana gets a head start before the Gorilla is released, turning a fun run into a race against the chase. Stay ahead and you won’t just earn bragging rights, you’ll earn a cash reward for a local charity at the finish line. Come for the banana suit, stay for the challenge, and see if you have what it takes to beat the Gorilla to help make your community a little better.
The Exclusive Email Club to stay in the know for all things Going Bananas!
The Going Bananas Run Twin Cities brings the banana madness to Back Channel Brewing for a fun, fast-paced 2-mile run with a purpose. Hundreds of bananas will take on the course, try to beat the Gorilla, and raise money for the American Cancer Society’s Gold Together initiative supporting the fight against childhood cancer.
New for 2027! Going Bananas is coming to Rochester with a 2-mile course starting and finishing at Little Thistle Brewing. Grab your banana suit, take on the Gorilla Challenge, and help us kick off a brand-new tradition while raising money for the American Cancer Society’s Gold Together initiative.
Where it all started! The original Going Bananas Run takes over Duluth with nearly 1,000 participants dressed in banana gear for a 2-mile course packed with fun. Run, walk, try to beat the Gorilla, and help us raise money for Project Joy.
10:30 AM
Race Start
The main event kicks off! Whether you’re here to compete or just to have fun, it’s time to shine.
10:32 AM
Release The Gorillas
We release the gorilla to chase after the bananas. Can you reach the finish before it passes you?
11:30 AM
Post-Race Activities
After crossing the finish line, enjoy refreshments, music, and entertainment as you cool down.
11:35 AM
Awards Ceremony
Stick around for the awards ceremony where we celebrate the fastest runners and other notable those who beat “The Gorilla”.
Depending on race location your packet will vary in pick locations. Each packet pickup will be the Friday prior to the event and the morning of the event.
Packet pickup:
Same day packet pickup is available starting at 9am
Same day packet pickup is available starting at 9am
Same day packet pickup is available starting at 9am
If you outpace “The Gorilla,” you’ll win a special prize and help secure additional donations to our charity partners. Plus, you’ll earn the ultimate bragging rights!
Absolutely! This event is perfect for runners of all levels, from seasoned racers to first-time fun-runners. The course is designed to be entertaining and accessible for everyone.
The Going Bananas Run is Duluth’s most fun and unique way to race while raising money for a great cause. All participants wear a banana suit and run a “two-ish” mile course while being cheered on by fans. After 2 minutes, “The Gorilla” is released to chase the racers. If you beat “The Gorilla” to the finish line, you’ll earn a special prize, and donations will be made to a local food shelf in your honor!
It’s TOP SECRET. Our gorillas are a secret until post race.
Stick around until the end to witness the gorilla unveiling.
Strollers are allowed, as we believe all members of the bunch should be able to join.
We ask that strollers hang out in the back of the pack due to congestion.
Each participant will receive:
YES!
It wouldn’t be a banana run if you didn’t run in a banana suit.
Those who have done the race before have the option to reuse their banana suit and get a limited edition racing tee instead.
Want to Sponsor Our 2027 Event? Contact Andrew@findenmarketing.com
