
From the Organizer
SJC Racing is proud to continue the tradition of one of the oldest races in Indianapolis: the 45th Annual Polar Bear Winter Classic.
We heard great feedback about the new location, and we'll be back at Fowling Warehouse for 2027!
This historic race is strategically placed on the calendar during the second half of February to be the first major road race of the year in Indy. The race offers a unique format including a 5K, 5 Mile or The Bear (5K + 5 Mile) The Bear is the challenge that allows you to run both distances, one after the other, for a total of 8.1 miles.
SWAG - The first 1000 registrants are guaranteed a finisher medal and "Wear the Bear" winter hat (watch your email and our Facebook page for alerts as we get close to hitting 1000). We also have an optional long sleeve and hoodie available as an add on during registration or directly from the race store.
Continuing with tradition, the Polar Bear Winter Classic offers cash prizes. age group awards in all three event distances. Post-race celebration will be inside at the Fowling Warehouse.
Events
Weather
It's too far out for a forecast, so here's what weather on this date is normally like in the area. A race day forecast will replace this as race week approaches.
Typical High
43°
Typical Low
25°
Chance of Rain
33%
Based on US Climate Normals data from Indianapolis Se Side, 7 mi from the venue.
Host City
Population
882,043
as of 2023
Elevation
728 ft
Nearest Airport
IND
Indianapolis International Airport · 10 mi
Time Zone
Eastern Time
From Endurance Grid
A big city race. Expect multiple lodging options and plenty to do the day before.
Race Location
Your Next Start Line
Every finish line starts with a single decision. Claim your spot at 45th Annual - Polar Bear Winter Classic, put it on the calendar, and turn “someday” into a start date.
264
Days to train
Coming Up
RUN(317) - Fountain Square
Less than a mile away
100 Holes for the Homeless
Less than a mile away
8-Hour Dream Endurance Race & Cat Nap 5K
Less than a mile away
33rd Annual Fast Flash 5k and Back 2 School Bash
Less than a mile away
From Endurance Grid
Endurance Grid is here to help you understand the sport, decide if it's the right fit, and learn how to prepare. For course distances, logistics, and race-day specifics, always defer to the race organizer's event page.
With running, there's a distance for every fitness level, a community at every start line, and nothing beats the feeling of crossing a finish line you trained for.
Running is an endurance sport that rewards consistency, and showing up every week compounds in ways that will surprise you.
From 5K to marathon, running races are the most accessible entry point into endurance sport. There's a distance for every fitness level and a community at every start line.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
45th Annual - Polar Bear Winter Classic
Feb 27, 2027