Junior Explorer: Turtle Derby
Broad Run Park
It’s that time of year again — the shells are polished, the lettuce is crisp, and the crowd is ready! Join us for the 6th Annual Turtle Derby featuring slow-and-steady reptile racers, representing community organizations from across the city. Cheer on your favorite turtle as they scoot their way to the finish line! Our beloved box turtle May, two-time reigning champion and The Parklands educational ambassador, is back to defend her title at this fun-filled, family-friendly race!
2026 Turtle Derby Schedule
10:30-11:30am: Ranger-led Creek Exploration
Ranger-led hike on a short trail to search for turtles and other animals that live in or near our creek! Come prepared to step into the creek if you want to. Meet beside The Parklands welcome table.
11:45-12:30 pm: Turtle Presentation
Learn about the special lives of the turtles running in the Turtle Derby, you might get the chance to watch them eat and pet them!
12:30-1:00 pm: Kid Turtle Derby
Experience what it feels like to be a turtle in the derby by racing in the kid turtle derby right before the big race! Put on your shell and see how slow you can go!
1:00: The 2026 Turtle Derby!
Local turtles will compete in the “slowest two minutes in sports”! A birthday celebration for the turtles will start right after the race, so stick around to enjoy a special birthday treat that will have you eating like a turtle!
Junior Explorer is a free family-friendly event at The Parklands that is open to all ages, and focuses on a special nature topic each time. Drop in at any time during the event for themed activities and check back closer to the event date to get a full list of scheduled happenings you won’t want to miss. Join the Parklands’ education team to explore our natural world with themed activities, games, hikes, crafts, and more!