If you are looking for races in Chicago, Illinois, you have come to the right place. Chicago has a growing running scene with 31 races listed in our directory, including 14 upcoming events in 2026. Whether you are lacing up for your first 5K or chasing a new personal record, there is something here for every runner.
Upcoming Races in Chicago, Illinois
Here is a look at the top upcoming races in Chicago this year. We update our listings weekly so you always have the most current information.
Always in Our Hearts 5K
Date: September 5, 2026
Distance: 5K
This heartfelt Chicago run/walk honors brothers Timmy and Patrick Ryan, who passed away from congenital heart defects, while bringing together runners, walkers, and supporters to raise awareness and funds for families in need. Read full details →
Check My Flow Blood Clot Foundation 5K Walk/Run/Bike Event
Date: September 6, 2026
Distance: 5K
Head to Chicago’s beautiful lakefront on Sunday, September 6, 2026, for a 3.1-mile community celebration that welcomes walkers, runners, and cyclists of all levels starting from Grove 19 in Jackson Park. Read full details →
El Grito 5K Family Run/Walk
Date: September 13, 2026
Distance: 5K
Join us for a fun run through the vibrant streets of Chicago’s Little Village neighborhood, where you’ll experience the rich Mexican culture along 26th Street before the Mexican Independence Day Parade kicks off! Read full details →
4th Annual Run for the Parks! 5K Run, Walk or Roll
Date: September 13, 2026
Distance: 5K
Lace up and head to Chicago’s gorgeous Lakefront Trail for a fantastic morning of fitness and funwhether you prefer running, walking, or rolling the full 5K, taking a leisurely 1-mile nature walk, or letting the little ones join in with the Kids Dash! Read full details →
Fleet Feet Training – The Long Run
Date: September 19, 2026
Get ready to nail your marathon prep with this incredible 20-mile group adventure in Chicagoyour perfect final training run before race day! You’ll have expert pacers cheering you on to help you hit your goals, plus well-stocked aid stations keeping you fueled with water and… Read full details →
Chicago River Swim
Date: September 20, 2026
Get ready to make a splash while supporting an amazing cause! This beloved Chicago event brings the community together to raise money for ALS research at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine, plus it helps local kids learn to swim. Read full details →
Bloomingdale Trail 5K
Date: September 26, 2026
Distance: 5K
Get ready to hit the pavement in Chicago for a fun-filled day where runners of all ages can participate! Whether you’re going for the full 5K challenge or your little ones want to sprint the shorter – or -mile distances, this beloved annual gathering has something for everyone… Read full details →
Abuelitos 5K
Date: September 26, 2026
Distance: 5K
Get ready to celebrate the special grandparents in your life while supporting Centro Romero, a wonderful Chicago northside organization that runs youth programs and educational classes! Read full details →
Why Run in Chicago?
Running events in Chicago offer a mix of community fun runs, charity 5Ks, and competitive road races throughout the year. The local running community is active and welcoming to runners of all levels — from first-timers to seasoned racers. Many of these events benefit local charities and organizations, making race day about more than just your finish time.
Find More Races in Illinois
Chicago is just one part of a thriving Illinois running scene. If you want to explore more events across the state, check out our full race listings for Illinois — we track every upcoming running event from 1 mile fun runs to full marathons.
Get Ready to Race
Found a race you want to run? The next step is making sure you are properly trained for it. Whether you are a first-timer aiming to finish or a veteran chasing a PR, having the right training plan makes all the difference.
Take our free 3-question training plan quiz and get matched to the right plan for your fitness level in under a minute. We will send it straight to your inbox so you can start training today.
Good luck out there — see you at the finish line in Chicago!
