13 events in Cook County, Illinois

Get ready for a blues‑soaked adventure in Crestwood! The Muddy Miles: A Spirits Run at Fat Tommy’s brings the heart of Chicago blues to a fast, fun, and slightly gritty 5K experience inspired by Muddy Waters’ legacy and the historic Restvale Cemetery.

This is a Spirits Run event — which means you’re getting more than a race. You’re getting a story, a route with character, and a finish‑line celebration that feels like a neighborhood party.

What to Expect

A runner‑friendly 5K route starting and finishing at Fat Tommy’s, Crestwood’s iconic local spot.

A blues‑themed adventure with nods to Muddy Waters and the musicians who shaped American music.

A cemetery‑turnaround moment that’s respectful, atmospheric, and signature Spirits Run style.

Checkpoints with light, optional tasks to keep the run playful and memorable.

A mini scavenger challenge woven into the course for extra fun.

Post‑Race Celebration

All registered participants receive food included with registration, served by Fat Tommy’s. Spectators and non‑participants can purchase food on‑site from Fat Tommy’s.

Stick around after you cross the finish line — we’ll have music, photos, and a lively community atmosphere.

Swag & Goodies

Custom race bib

Spirits Run collectible stamp for your Illinois Adventure Series passport

Finisher Woodie Medal for all Participants

Collectors Drink Cup

Add‑on merch available at event

Who Can Join

Walkers, runners, strollers, and all paces are welcome. This is a community‑first event with a fun, inclusive vibe.

A Spirits Run Adventure

Every Spirits Run event is built to celebrate local history, local venues, and the stories that make each Illinois town unique. Muddy Miles honors Crestwood’s blues heritage while delivering a fun, approachable 5K for all.

Hop into Spring at the New Winnetka Bunny Hop Dash 5k! Join us on April 4, 2026 for a family fun 5k on the Green Bay trail!

8am and 9:00am Start time waves Bunny Ears included for kids!

SCHEDULE

Everyone is Required to Pick Up Packets. Friends can pick up friends packets. PLEASE Email us large groups. No Race Day

SUNDAY, MARCH 29 10:30 AM – 4:00PM – Packet Pickup @ Road Runner Sports (Ednes Plaza), 3232 Lake Avenue, Wilmette, IL 60091

FRIDAY, APRIL 3

12:30pm – 4:00PM – Packet Pickup @ Road Runner Sports (Ednes Plaza), 3232 Lake Avenue, Wilmette, IL 60091

SATURDAY, APRIL 4

7:15 AM RACE DAY REGISTRATION Race Day Registration: Cash or Check only: Carpe Diem Races.

RACE MORNING

8:00 AM 1st wave ON THE TRAIL - Rolling start

8:30 AM 2nd Wave

9:00 AM 3rd wave starts --

Due to congestion on the course there will be no Water Station. - post race water will be at finish line and up at the main building area

No AWARDS, but all kids receive a #1 medal and bunny ears

RESULTS: Results are posted on line at www.j3timing.com

RACE LOCATION

On the Green Bay Trail at Winnetka Train Station 754 Elm St, Winnetka, IL 60093. We will be on the West side of the building. Post race water and granola bars.

VOLUNTEER

Need varies shifts: Course Marshal, Water Station, Packet Pick up race day!

WEATHER

The event will go on rain, shine or snow and no cancellations. In the event of severe weather on race morning, we will communicate any changes to the schedule or race with all registered athletes via email, social media, and at the event.

PARKING

Public Lots and street parking

REFUNDS

No Refunds.

Carpe Diem Races and Municipality have the right to change the course.

ROAD RUNNER SPORTS BUNNY SPECIAL: Shop and save with Road Runner Sports during packet pickup hours! Join the VIP Family and enjoy $20 off your order of $50 or more on anything in store. Already a VIP? Earn Double Rewards Cash on your purchase. Some exclusions may apply. See store for details.

Join us for our annual 5K Walk-A-Thon in support of adolescent physical and mental wellness. This event helps raise funds for our 4-week summer camp serving students in 3rd through 8th grade. More than a summer program, this camp is designed to be a safe, active, and encouraging space for youth during the summer months.

Led by a longtime Maywood District 89 educator with more than 30 years of service, this initiative is rooted in the belief that adolescents need safe spaces, positive structure, and opportunities to stay active for their overall health and well-being.

The Willard PTO is excited to once again host its annual 5K fun run! This event is open to runners and walkers of all ages and abilities. Join us for some friendly competition or just a leisurely stroll to start the day!

Race Details

• 5K - The 5k features a 2-loop course, beginning and ending near the Willard playground on Franklin Street; the race begins at 8:30am

• Kids Run - Before the main event, our youngest runners (1st grade and younger) can try our Mini Loop, a 1/4ish mile loop around Constitution Park (see map)

Registration Information

The cost of registration is $20/person (plus site fees) and includes a race bib, t-shirt, and finishers medal.

Registration for the 5k includes the kids mini-loop registration. You do not need to separately register for each event - just show up to one or both! If you do not wish to receive a race shirt, please select "No Shirt" when selecting your t-shirt size. The t-shirt portion of your entry fee will be donated to the PTO; the perfect option if you don’t want another race t-shirt in your closet!

T-shirts and race bibs will be available for pickup at Willard on Thursday 5/14 and Friday 5/15, as well as the morning of the race.

This event raises thousands of dollars for local non-profits. Participants are treated to a accurately measured 5k course with an aid station just before and after the turnaround point. Age Group awards are given to the top three men and top three women in each category. Categories are 14 & under, 15-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60 & over.

Join us in Barrington Hills for the 4th annual race on our scenic, challenging 5k course!

Help us run pediatric cancer out of town!

Join us for a fun-filled event that's all about family. Whether you are a future Olympian or just coming out to stretch your legs in support, everyone is welcome to gather and enjoy the event: fun, food, and more for all of our participants. Medals are awarded to Top 3 Males and Females overall, then to the Top 3 Males and Females per each 5 year Age Group. This is one event you don't want to miss! Register early to guarantee your spot and swag!

Sign up by June 1st for guaranteed race swag!

Hoffman Estates Stars & Stripes Half Marathon, 10K & 5K Run/Walk

Hoffman Estates, IL - 06/27/2026

Use #Stars&StripesRun when sharing your photos from the event. Finish with the American Flag, finisher medals & finish line ice cream and bomb pops!

Event times, dates, location and all other details are subject to change prior to the event. All official information is on the event's website AllCommunityEvents.com.