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13 events in Cook County, Illinois

From big races to Saturday morning group runs—find 5k events and connect with the local endurance sports community.

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  • The Muddy Waters 5k: A Spirits Run at Fat Tommy’s [runsignup.com]

    Sat, Mar 28, 2026 at 10:00 AM

    Description

    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...

    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.

    5k Run Walk

    4901 Cal Sag Road, Cook County, Illinois, 60418, United States
    OpenStreetMap Google Maps
  • Winnetka Bunny Hop Dash 5k [runsignup.com]

    Sat, Apr 04, 2026 at 8:00 AM

    Description

    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...

    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.

    3.1 Miles 5k Run Trail

    754 Elm St., Cook County, Illinois, 60093, United States
    OpenStreetMap Google Maps
  • Insight Y.O.B Walk-A-Thon 2026 [insightyob.org] [Register at runsignup.com]

    Sat, May 02, 2026 at 9:00 AM

    Description

    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...

    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.

    5k Run Walk

    5900 Electric Ave, Cook County, Illinois, 60163, United States
    OpenStreetMap Google Maps
  • Haven's 5K [runsignup.com]

    Sun, May 03, 2026 at 9:00 AM

    Description

    Haven's Annual 5K in Winnetka, IL. Whether you're a runner or just in it for the fun, join us to get active and give back. Haven helps empower young people and families by providing services that promote mental health, strengthen well-being, and foster connection through education, intervention, outreach, and treatment. Group/Family and Youth discounts available.

    5k Run

    501 Winnetka Ave, Cook County, Illinois, 60093, United States
    OpenStreetMap Google Maps
  • Palos Park Doggie Dash [palospark.org] [Register at raceroster.com]

    Sat, May 16, 2026 at 9:00 AM

    Description

    4th Annual

    Palos Park Doggie Dash

    Saturday, May 16, 2026

    5K & 1-Mile Run/Walk

    Palos Park Recreation Center

    8901 W. 123rd Street

    Palos Park, IL

    You must be registered by 5/1/2026 to be guaranteed your race shirt/size and finisher medal.

    5k Run Walk

    Palos Park Recreation Center, 8901 West 123rd Street, Cook County, Illinois, 60464, United States
    OpenStreetMap Google Maps
  • 2026 Willard 5k Fun Run [runsignup.com]

    Sun, May 17, 2026 at 8:15 AM

    Description

    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...

    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.

    5k Fun Run Run Walk

    1250 Ashland Ave, Cook County, Illinois, 60305, United States
    OpenStreetMap Google Maps

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