5k and 10k Race, Fun Run and Conservation Celebration
Saturday, May 16 in Spring City, TN
Laurel Dace Day is a conservation celebration and festival that raises awareness of a critically endangered fish found only on nearby Walden’s Ridge.
On Saturday, May 16, the Aquarium and its partners will host the Second Annual Laurel Dace Day in Spring City, TN with a 5k, (New this year!) 10k, Half Mile Fun Run and celebration to support the Laurel Dace.
The festivities will include a local farmer’s market, artisan vendors, music, and activities with conservation scientists and educators.
You still have time to sign up!
Looking for extra fun on Laurel Dace Day?
Some of our partners are hosting free guided outdoor excursions nearby!
Hike with the Cumberland Trail Conservancy
Explore the historical Laurel Dace habitat
Snorkel the Piney River with the Tennessee RiverLine and CFI
Discover aquatic species in the nearby Piney River
Schedule of Events
Friday, May 15
6 p.m. – Special screening of Freshwaters Illustrated’s Hidden Rivers film at the Tennessee Valley Theater (184 W. Jackson Ave., Spring City, Tennessee)
Saturday, May 16
8 a.m. — 5K and 10K race
8:30 a.m. — Half-mile fun run
8 a.m. – 1 p.m. — Vendors, exhibitors and education activities
11 a.m. – noon — Live music from Andrew Witherspoon
1 p.m. — Shuttle leaves for hike excursion with Cumberland Trail Conference
1:30 p.m. — Shuttle leaves for snorkel excursion with Tennessee Riverline
All day — Commemorative Laurel Dace glass and beer available at Monkey Town Brewing Co. (287 1st Ave., Dayton, Tennessee)
Apply to be a vendor at Laurel Dace Day!
Laurel Dace Day 2026 is presented by Nokian Tyres
With additional support from Monkey Town Brewing Co., 101.1 The Eagle, Visit Spring City, Food City and La-Z-Boy.
Interested in supporting Laurel Dace Day?
View our PDF to learn more about sponsorship levels and benefits.
