Legal Beagle 5K Run/Walk

The Legal Beagle 5K Run/Walk is a community-driven athletic event scheduled for Saturday, April 25, 2026, in Ridgeland, Mississippi. Organized by the Jackson Young Lawyers, the race takes place along the scenic Highland Colony and Renaissance corridor, with the starting and finishing lines situated between the Merrill Lynch and Butler Snow buildings on Parkway Drive. This event serves a philanthropic purpose, with all proceeds benefiting the Mississippi Volunteer Lawyers Project, an organization that connects underprivileged individuals with pro bono legal services through the Mississippi Bar Association.

Event Logistics and Participation

The 5K events utilize chip timing provided by MS Race Timing to ensure accurate results for both runners and walkers. Following the main 5K race, a 1-mile Fun Run is held at 9:15 AM, catering to families and younger participants. The event is managed by Joel Meek and supported by various local sponsors from the Jackson legal community. Participants are encouraged to register by the April 24 deadline to ensure their spot in the lineup. Packet pickup and award details are typically coordinated at the Butler Snow facility on Highland Colony Parkway.

Regional and Demographic Context

Ridgeland (39157) is a vibrant and affluent suburb of Jackson located in Madison County, with a 2026 population of approximately 24,500 residents. The city is known for its high quality of life, featuring the upscale Renaissance at Colony Park shopping district and proximity to the Natchez Trace Parkway. Ridgeland boasts a high median household income of approximately $68,000, which is significantly above the Mississippi state average. The demographic profile is diverse: White / European origin (51.2%), Black / African American (37.8%), Hispanic / Latino (6.4%), and Asian (3.1%).

The median age in Ridgeland is 35.2 years, indicating a dynamic population of young professionals and families. The city is a major employment center for the state's legal, financial, and medical sectors, which aligns with the mission of the Legal Beagle event. As a hub for the Jackson Metropolitan Area, Ridgeland emphasizes wellness and community service, often hosting large-scale charity events that draw participants from across the tri-county area. The presence of the Ross Barnett Reservoir nearby further enhances the region’s reputation as a destination for outdoor enthusiasts and active lifestyles.