The Fat Boy NOLA 5K is a humor-filled, inclusive athletic event scheduled for Sunday, May 17, 2026, at Lafreniere Park in Metairie, Louisiana. Starting in the early morning, the race subverts traditional competitive norms by categorizing participants into weight-based divisions rather than age groups. The event benefits the Dawnbusters Kiwanis Club - Rewards for Reading Program, which supports literacy and education for local youth through community-driven initiatives.
| Event | Start Time | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Lil Fat Boy's Kids Dash | 8:00 AM | A sprint for younger participants to kick off the morning. |
| Fat Boy 5K Run/Walk | 8:15 AM | The main chip-timed event winding through Lafreniere Park. |
| 0.0 Mile World Championship | 9:30 AM | A stationary challenge celebrating a total lack of distance. |
| 26.2 Foot Marathon | 9:40 AM | A short-distance dash rewarded with commemorative ribbons. |
| Donut Eating Contest | 10:00 AM | A legendary post-race battle of balance and carbohydrates. |
The Fat Boy NOLA is an "all weight division" race, encouraging participants to compete in various categories based on current physical stature. For those participating as a group, the Clydesdale Team Division offers trophies based on the cumulative weight of the team members. Beyond the timing and medals, the event places a high value on spirit and creativity, awarding prizes for the largest team, most spirited participants, and best-dressed individuals wearing creative costumes.
All participants receive a comprehensive swag kit, which includes a chip-timed bib, a custom finisher medal, and a sleeveless poly-cotton tank top. After conquering the course or the "0.0 mile" challenge, runners and walkers are invited to a post-race celebration featuring music and refreshments provided by local sponsors. The judgment-free atmosphere at Lafreniere Park focuses on the philosophy of "racing hard, jogging happy, or waddling proudly," ensuring that fitness remains accessible and entertaining for everyone.
Logistics for the race include multiple packet pickup opportunities, with a primary session hosted at Fleet Feet Metairie on the Thursday prior to the event. For those unable to attend the early session, race-day pickup and registration open at 7:00 AM at the park site. The course itself is flat and scenic, designed to accommodate all paces and levels of mobility while highlighting the natural lagoons and greenery of one of the region's most popular public spaces. The awards ceremony concludes the morning, celebrating the top two finishers in every weight category.
May 17, 2026
Distance — 5km
Type — Running
08:00
$39.56
May 17, 2026
Distance — 5km
Type — Running
08:00
$39.56
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for May in Metairie.
Learn more about the host city, Metairie.
Metairie is the largest suburb of New Orleans, Louisiana, in Jefferson Parish.
Read more launchWatch highlights and course previews from previous years.
Read what other athletes have to say about their experience at the Fat Boy NOLA 5k.
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