Minnesota's Wackiest Fun Run

Come Join Us:
July 11th, 2026

Back Channel Brewing
Spring Park, MN

The Going Bananas Run is officially heading to the Twin Cities. After an amazing response in Duluth, we are bringing this one of a kind fun run to a brand new community. Every participant receives their own banana suit for the race, which makes the entire event feel lighthearted and inviting for all ages.

Racers will follow a lively Twin Cities course filled with energy and cheering. Just like in Duluth, you will want to get moving right away because two minutes after the start we release “The Gorilla.” The Gorilla is part of our team and has one job. He loves chasing bananas. If you can cross the finish line before him, you will earn a special prize and help us donate money to a local food shelf.

We are grateful to expand this event and bring people together for something active, memorable, and meaningful. The only question left is simple. Are you fast enough to beat The Gorilla?

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What Do You Get?

Banana Suit

$4 Beer

Bananas!!

Custom Bib

Champion Pin

Join the Banana Club!

The Exclusive Email Club to stay in the know for all things Going Bananas!

Post Race Treat

Banana Split!

Every runner deserves a sweet treat just as special as they are!

Introducing the Banana Split, sign up and enjoy this after the race!

How The Race Works

Race Start

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.

Release The Gorilla

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.

Beat The GOrilla

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

Celebrate

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 icecream, a tasty beer, or enjoy yourself a tasty banana

Registration Pricing

Early Bird

Be the first to do this Twin Cities fun run. Get a deal with your registration at only $40. This gets you your own banana suit, entry into the race, and more!

40$

Until December 31st

Less Early Bird

If you missed the early bird don't fret you can still get in with the less early bird. You still get your own banana suit, race entry, and more at only $45

45$

January 1st to April 10th

General

If you missed the early bird and the less early bird it's okay! You can still get your own banana suit, race entry, and more at only $50

50$

April 11th to June 24th

Last Minute

Joining us at the last minute? We have you covered! For $55 you can get a banana suit, race entry, and more!

55$

June 25th to July 11th

Race Route

, The Going Bananas Run is perfect for runners of all levels. Our “two-ish” mile course lets you peel away from the ordinary and be the star of the show, with hundreds of adoring fans, or at least people wondering what the heck is going on. Below, you can check out our route.

TWIN CITIES ROUTE COMING SOON

Race Day Schedule

10:00 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”.

Giving Back to The Community

Supporting our community is something Going Bananas holds close. By participating in this Twin Cities fun run, runners and supporters are not only promoting health and wellness but also helping provide money for cancer research. If you have what it takes a part of your race fee will be donated to the American Cancer Societ.

2026 charity partner

2026 Donation Goal - $5,000

The American Cancer Society is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of people facing cancer. They fund research, offer patient support programs, and provide trusted information for individuals and families navigating a diagnosis. Their work also includes advocacy efforts aimed at prevention, early detection, and better access to care. Through community events, volunteers, and donations, the American Cancer Society continues to bring hope and assistance to millions across the country.

Banana Gallery

Going Bananas Run

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Pick Up My Packet?

Packet pickup—including your banana suit—will take place at Chilly Billy’s Mount Royal:

Dates: June 5th and 6th
Time: 12 PM – 9:30 PM

What Happens If I Beat "The Gorilla"?

If you outpace “The Gorilla,” you’ll win a special prize and help secure additional donations to the local food shelf. Plus, you’ll earn the ultimate bragging rights!

Can Anyone Join?

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.

What is the Going Bananas Run?

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 3 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!

When and Where is the Run?

Date: June 7th, 2024
Location: Duluth, Minnesota
The race starts at the designated course near downtown Duluth. Stay tuned for a detailed map!

Can Anyone Join?

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.

What Do I Get with Registration?

Each participant will receive:

A banana suit to run in and keep forever!
A celebratory beer for adults 21+ at the finish line.
Frozen yogurt from Chilly Billy’s to cool down.
A glory pin to commemorate your achievement.
Unlimited bananas post-race to refuel and keep the theme alive!

How Do I Register?

You can register online until May 31st, 2024. Pricing is as follows:

Early Bird Special: $40 (ends February 28th)
Normal Pricing: $45 (March 1st – May 20th)
Last Minute Registration: $55 (May 21st – June 7th)

Minnesota's Wackiest Fun Run

What Do You Get?

Banana Suit

$4 Beer

Bananas!!

Custom Bib

Champion Pin

Join the Banana Club!

Post Race Treat

Banana Split!

How The Race Works

Race Start

Release The Gorilla

Beat The GOrilla

Celebrate

Registration Pricing

Early Bird

40$

Less Early Bird

45$

General

50$

Last Minute

55$

Race Route

Race Day Schedule

Giving Back to The Community

2026 charity partner

2026 Donation Goal - $5,000

Banana Gallery

Going Bananas Run

Frequently Asked Questions

Who Is the GOrilla?

Be The First To Know

Going Banana Run Sponsors

Want to Sponsor Our 2026 Event? Contact Andrew@findenmarketing.com

Presenting Sponsor

Major Sponsors

Supporting Sponsors

Our Twin Cities Partners!