Runners, families, and wildlife enthusiasts are gearing up for Mississippi Aquarium’s annual Otter Trotter 5K, set to take place the day before Thanksgiving.
This year’s event will combine fitness, family fun, and a festive sneak peek of “A Magical Mississippi Christmas,” a new multimedia holiday show being put on by the Gulfport aquarium.
The 5K race will start Wednesday, November 27, at 5:30 p.m., followed by a Fun Run at 5:40 p.m., with both events beginning at the Mississippi Aquarium Plaza. The festivities begin at 5 p.m. with pre-race activities.
The Fun Run encourages a creative spirit with a stroller and wagon decorating contest, where participants are invited to dress up their strollers or wagons in otter or Christmas themes. Awards will be given for Best Use of the Theme, Most Elaborate, and Honorable Mention, adding an extra festive element for young runners and their families.
The aquarium’s “Aquatic Wonders and Changing Tides” exhibit will be open until 8 p.m. for race participants and spectators alike to visit afterward. Special holiday touches include previews of the brand-new Christmas projection show, “A Penguin’s Christmas Wish.” Showings will begin at 6 p.m. and take place every half hour.
Race Day Schedule
- 4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.: Packet pickup and day-of registration at Ticketing Plaza
- 5:00 p.m.: Pre-race festivities begin at the Mississippi Aquarium Plaza
- 5:30 p.m.: 5K Race Begins & Aquarium Opens
- 5:40 p.m.: Fun Run Begins
- 6:00 p.m., 6:30 PM, 7:00 PM, 7:30 PM: “A Penguin’s Christmas Wish” Projection Show
- 6:45 p.m.: Post-Race Awards Ceremony
- 7:00 p.m.: 5K Course Closes
- 8:00 p.m.: Aquarium Closes
Racers can look forward to custom bibs, medals, and a commemorative t-shirt. Registration also includes admission to the aquarium’s after-hours event, allowing runners to explore the exhibits with family and friends.