NEW ORLEANS – The Crescent City Classic and YMCA of Greater New Orleans officials are back for the Annual Corporate Classic. The family-oriented 3.1-mile race will take place this year on Saturday, Oct. 24, 2026, in New Orleans City Park at 8 a.m.
More than a traditional road race, the Corporate Classic encourages businesses throughout Greater New Orleans to build teams and compete alongside individual runners, walkers and families while raising awareness and support for adult literacy. Proceeds benefit YMCA programs that help adults strengthen the reading, writing and foundational skills they need in everyday life, at work and in their communities.
The race begins at 8 a.m. near the Louisiana Children’s Museum in City Park and is open to runners and walkers of all abilities. Participants can register individually or as part of corporate and community teams. Children ages 5 and younger can participate at no cost, and complimentary YMCA-staff childcare will be available in the Kids Zone for children ages 10 and younger who are registered in advance.
“What makes the Corporate Classic special is the way it connects health, the workplace and our community,” said Crescent City Classic Race Director Eric Stuart. “You don’t have to be a competitive runner to participate. Companies can bring their employees together, families can make a morning of it and everyone who crosses the finish line is helping support the YMCA’s work to expand adult literacy in Greater New Orleans.”
The YMCA of Greater New Orleans’ Adult Literacy Program serves approximately 40 adults. Funds raised through the Corporate Classic help the YMCA provide free classes. Since the Corporate Classic began, the event has raised $4.6 million for the program.
“Every dollar raised provides access to learning opportunities for adults of all ages and abilities to gain the skills they need to navigate their lives, support their families and participate more fully in the workforce and in their communities,” said Dr. Amy Leggette, Director of YMCA Educational Services. “Literacy has an impact far beyond the classroom. It can affect a person’s ability to find employment, help their children with homework and confidently navigate everyday life. The support generated through the Corporate Classic helps us continue providing those opportunities to adults in our community.”
The 3.1-mile course begins on Palm Drive and takes participants through City Park, passing the Festival Grounds and New Orleans Museum of Art before finishing on the City Park Practice Track. The Corporate Classic is the only 5K race that offers runners the opportunity to qualify for a seeded starting position in the 49th Annual Crescent City Classic 10K on March 27, 2027. Participants who complete the 5K in 27 minutes or less are eligible for seeded placement.
Immediately following the family-friendly race, participants will be treated to a wide array of complimentary food, beer and other beverages, live entertainment and an awards ceremony. Participants can also meet and take photos with Gumbo, the New Orleans Saints mascot, G.C., the Flying Pig and the LSU New Orleans Mascot and Spirit Team.
Corporate teams will compete in divisions based on company size, with awards recognizing both the fastest and largest teams. Individual awards will also be presented across overall, masters and age group categories.
Registration for the Corporate Classic is now open here. Early registration is $45 per participant for a limited time, with registration fees increasing as race day approaches.
For more information and updates on the 2026 Corporate Classic, the 2027 Crescent City Classic on March 27 and all other Crescent City Classic races, visit here.
About the Crescent City Classic
The Crescent City Classic has been a part of the New Orleans running community since 1979, promoting health, fitness and fun through races and community events throughout the year. Best known for its iconic Crescent City Classic 10K held annually on Easter weekend, the organization produces events for runners and walkers of all ages and abilities, from competitive athletes to casual participants and families. Through its races and the Run For It charity program, the Crescent City Classic brings people together through fitness while supporting nonprofit organizations and the Greater New Orleans community. All Crescent City Classic events are produced by the Crescent City Classic Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting health, fitness and active lifestyles.
About YMCA
The YMCA of Greater New Orleans is a 501c3 nonprofit charity founded on November 16, 1852. Today the Y assists tens of thousands of residents in Orleans, Jefferson, St. Tammany, and Plaquemines Parishes. The mission is “to put Christian principles into practice through programs that build a healthy spirit, mind and body for all.” The Y lives its not-for-profit charitable mission daily by providing life-changing programs and services that enrich people from all walks of life in the areas of Youth Development, Healthy Living, and Social Responsibility. That the Y is credited with positive changes in the community that only comes about with a tremendous investment in children, families, health, and neighbors.