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26 running events in Cook County, Illinois

From big races to Saturday morning group runs—find running 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
  • Healthy Kids Running Series Spring 2026 - Hoffman Estates/Palatine, IL [healthykidsrunningseries.org] [Register at runsignup.com]

    Sun, Apr 12, 2026 at 4:00 PM

    Description

    Who We Are: Healthy Kids Running Series is a five (5) week running program in the spring and fall for kids Pre-K through 8th grade. Each HKRS Series takes place once a week and offers age-appropriate...

    Who We Are: Healthy Kids Running Series is a five (5) week running program in the spring and fall for kids Pre-K through 8th grade. Each HKRS Series takes place once a week and offers age-appropriate running events including the 50 & 75 yard dashes, the 1/4 mile, the 1/2 mile and the 1 mile run. Kids will earn points for each race they complete based on their finish.

    Pricing: The registration fee covers the entire five (5) weeks of the Series which includes race bibs for each week, a runner shirt, a finisher medal and any sponsor giveaways. Registration is non-refundable and non-transferable. Online Early Bird registration increases three weeks prior to the first race event.

    Challenger: This Series offers a Challenger Division which is an adaptive 75 yard race for children with disabilities and/or special needs. This allows for parents, siblings, and friends to be on the course with runners to provide support as well as bringing their own supportive devices such as crutches, braces, wheelchairs, etc. to be used by runners.

    Makeup Date Information: 5/10/2026

    Single Day Racing: Single day race registration opens one hour prior to the start of each race. The registration fee covers one single race to be run on the day of registration. ALL single day registrations should be completed onsite at the race location. Single day racers will have the option to upgrade to the full series (see tab on the left side of the page for instructions). There is a strict no-refund and no-transfer policy.

    Awards: All participants receive a medal on Week 5! Trophies will be awarded to the overall top finishers in each of the divisions listed below (broken out by boys and girls respectively):

    Kindergarten & 1st Grade

    2nd & 3rd Grade

    4th & 5th Grade

    6th to 8th Grade

    Challenger

    Share your running photos with our community! Find us on Facebook @HealthyKidsRunning or Instagram @healthykidsrs!

    #GetUpandGo

    Kids Run Wheelchair

    Cook County, Illinois, 60192, United States
    OpenStreetMap Google Maps
  • Healthy Kids Running Series Spring 2026 - La Grange/Countryside, IL [healthykidsrunningseries.org] [Register at runsignup.com]

    Sun, Apr 19, 2026 at 3:00 PM

    Description

    Who We Are: Healthy Kids Running Series is a five (5) week running program in the spring and fall for kids Pre-K through 8th grade. Each HKRS Series takes place once a week and offers age-appropriate...

    Who We Are: Healthy Kids Running Series is a five (5) week running program in the spring and fall for kids Pre-K through 8th grade. Each HKRS Series takes place once a week and offers age-appropriate running events including the 50 & 75 yard dashes, the 1/4 mile, the 1/2 mile and the 1 mile run. Kids will earn points for each race they complete based on their finish.

    Pricing: The registration fee covers the entire five (5) weeks of the Series which includes race bibs for each week, a runner shirt, a finisher medal and any sponsor giveaways. Registration is non-refundable and non-transferable. Online Early Bird registration increases three weeks prior to the first race event.

    Challenger: This Series offers a Challenger Division which is an adaptive 75 yard race for children with disabilities and/or special needs. This allows for parents, siblings, and friends to be on the course with runners to provide support as well as bringing their own supportive devices such as crutches, braces, wheelchairs, etc. to be used by runners.

    Makeup Date Information: 5/31/2026

    Single Day Racing: Single day race registration opens one hour prior to the start of each race. The registration fee covers one single race to be run on the day of registration. ALL single day registrations should be completed onsite at the race location. Single day racers will have the option to upgrade to the full series (see tab on the left side of the page for instructions). There is a strict no-refund and no-transfer policy.

    Awards: All participants receive a medal on Week 5! Trophies will be awarded to the overall top finishers in each of the divisions listed below (broken out by boys and girls respectively):

    Pre-K 50 Yard Dash

    Pre-K 75 Yard Dash

    Kindergarten & 1st Grade

    2nd & 3rd Grade

    4th & 5th Grade

    6th to 8th Grade

    Challenger

    Share your running photos with our community! Find us on Facebook @HealthyKidsRunning or Instagram @healthykidsrs!

    #GetUpandGo

    Kids Run Wheelchair

    Joliet Road, Cook County, Illinois, 60525, United States
    OpenStreetMap Google Maps
  • Avoca School District 37 Family Fun Run/Walk *Please note date change* [runsignup.com]

    Sun, Apr 26, 2026 at 8:00 AM

    Description

    Lace up your running shoes and support Avoca District 37, Marie Murphy class of 2026!

    This fun run and walk will support 8th grade activities, and the legacy gift left for generations of Avoca D37...

    Lace up your running shoes and support Avoca District 37, Marie Murphy class of 2026!

    This fun run and walk will support 8th grade activities, and the legacy gift left for generations of Avoca D37 students to come. Additional proceeds will also be donated to charity.

    Whether you run, walk, or jog, it’s all about fun, fitness, and community.

    📅 Date: April 26, 2026

    Start Time: 8:00 am

    📍 Location: Community Playfields track

    3 Miles Fun Run Run Walk

    702 Locust Road, Cook County, Illinois, 60091, 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
  • The Universal Sole Spring Trail Challenge [universalsole.com] [Register at runsignup.com]

    Sat, May 02, 2026 at 9:00 AM

    Description

    The Universal Sole Spring Trail Challenge

    THREE RAVINES COURSE - BRING YOUR YAKTRAX

    Athletes get to choose 3.1 or 5.4 mile race course

    MAY 2, 2026 @ 9AM

    Trail running has always been in our USOLE...

    The Universal Sole Spring Trail Challenge

    THREE RAVINES COURSE - BRING YOUR YAKTRAX

    Athletes get to choose 3.1 or 5.4 mile race course

    MAY 2, 2026 @ 9AM

    Trail running has always been in our USOLE DNA! We were the first running store in Chicago to bring trail racing to the Chicago running community. These trail races are great courses for folks wanting to get off the roads and enjoy some of our beautiful trails, but not have to be an expert trail runner to get to the finish. Our trail races are very laid back and great fun for the entire family, making it fun & easy for all! The USOLE Trail Challenge is great for people of all ages and all abilities looking to change up the running routine and get “off” the roads!

    Trail Race Location:

    We will be headed back to Wolf Road Woods, part of the Palos Trail System to tackle a the legendary Three Ravines Course! We can't wait to show you some new trail and bring this course into the USOLE Trail family repertoire of fantastic trail courses. This course will have a great mix of double & single track along with undulating terrain in the beautiful Wolf Road Woods! It may have a small hill or two to climb as well, but fun will always be had! USOLE Trail Challenge races are a great way to see the trails, get your long run and enjoy camaraderie with your trail running friends!

    Race Details:

    Spring Trail Challenge Pricing:

    February 1 - February 28 - $40.00

    March 1 - March 31 - $45.00

    April 1 - Until Race Day - $55.00

    No exchanges or refunds

    The Goods:

    Every registered runner will get a cool USOLE Premium Trail Giveaway. Stay tuned as we will announce soon!

    Brews & Craft Brews for all to enjoy post race.

    Killer raffle

    Course will be trail & off road with crushed limestone, dirt, rocks, & roots...and maybe some mud. Fun is the name of the game!

    If you have Yaktrax or a clip on traction device, you may want to bring them for extra traction as spring trails can have a bit of mud.

    Race will begin promptly @ 9:00am. Race day pickup & registration will begin @ 8:00am!

    Weather Issues: In the case of inclement weather, the only time we will delay a race or consider any action is in the presence of lightning. All other weather (rain, snow, tons of snow, tons of rain, etc) we will run the race. After all, this is trail running and some inclement weather makes it that much more fun!

    Water at the Start/finish line. Due to Cook County Forest Preserve regulations, we are not allowed to have any aid station in the trails. We will have an aid station at the start/finish line and at the halfway point so you can fill up any bottles or get nutrition at those points. It is highly recommended you come with your own bottle, hydration pack and personal choice of nutrition supplements.

    -Granola Bars and bananas will be at the finish for all athletes.

    -Refreshing brews will be given to all runners after the race.

    -Race day gear check will be at Universal. Sole Tents/registration tables

    -Parking Info: Plenty of parking in the forest preserve parking lots!

    Directions to race site:(Wolf Road Woods) - Coming from the north, take I-55 to Exit 279A, southbound La Grange Road. Drive south for roughly 2 miles and exit south onto Archer Avenue to 95th. Left on 95th and take that to the split and veer a soft right to the Forest Preserve Entrance/Wolf Road. Follow Wolf Road all the way to the end, go right and to the USOLE Race Site @ Wolf Road Woods - Grove #2.

    Awards:

    -Overall winners for Female, Male & Non-Binary will receive custom award tiles for the 3.1 Mile & 5.4 Mile Races.

    -Full Age Group Awards for 5.4 mile race - Top three in each age group (Female, Male & Non-Binary): 0-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70-79, 80+

    -Age Group Awards for 3.1 mile race - Age group winners only (Female, Male & Non-Binary): 0-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70-79, 80+

    -Post race raffle with great prizes from Universal Sole & all of our sponsors to be held at our post race party on-site!

    Packet Pick-up & Race Day Registration:

    *Packet pick-up will be available on race morning starting @ 8:00am from the USOLE Tents/tables. We will also have race morning registration for folks (it will be at a higher price, so be sure you pre-register before)

    Post Race - Craft Brews & Fun!

    Once the races are over, we will have local craft brews for everyone! We will have some other goodies for folks as well to enjoy, but let's run, have some fun and enjoy some fine craft brew styles from our USOLE Trail Challenge sponsors! We will also have a killer raffle for all runners with some really cool prizes from all of our sponsors. Come for the (trail) run, stay for the fun!

    BRING OLD RUNNING SHOES OUT TO THE RACE TO RECYCLE!

    Reduce Waste Chicago -- They help Chicagoan's reduce their waste output through reusing, repairing and recycling. They work with organizations across the city to host Reuse & Recycle Pop-Up events, where residents can drop off materials from our accepted items list that are not accepted by the city’s Blue Cart program. RWC distributes items to other organizations, local nonprofits, artists groups and recycling companies – all of which improves landfill diversion. Reduce Waste Chicago will be out at the USOLE Trail Challenge Races accepting running shoes for recycling. For more information, click here.

    Volunteer Information: Please email Universal Sole ([email protected]) and let us know if you would like to take part by volunteering.

    Strollers & Dogs: Strollers and leashed dogs are allowed, we ask that you start in the last start time corral.

    *Please note: There are no refunds, exchanges or person to person entry transfers for this event. Discount codes can't be used on race day/night registration (best is to sign up pre-event on-line here).

    3.1 Miles 5.4 Miles Cycling Run

    9600 Wolf Road, Cook County, Illinois, 60480, 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
  • F^3 Cap Sauers Trail Marathon & 10 Mile [f3running.com] [Register at runsignup.com]

    Sat, May 09, 2026 at 7:30 AM

    Description

    Explore the Cap Sauers Holding Nature Preserve - the largest tract of undeveloped land in Cook County, IL. This race will cover every inch of maintained trail within the Nature Preserve. With over...

    Explore the Cap Sauers Holding Nature Preserve - the largest tract of undeveloped land in Cook County, IL. This race will cover every inch of maintained trail within the Nature Preserve. With over 1000 ft of elevation, this marathon is mountainous by Chicago standards!

    The course uses the Sag Valley Trail system, covering the Yellow, Green, Blue & Tan trails. The whole course is wide horsetrail, allowing for 2-way traffic and encouragement from fellow participants.

    Results here: https://www.athlinks.com/event/353493/results/Event/1082897/Results

    Photos here: https://www.highfivebb.com/Running/F3-Cap-Sauers-Trail-Marathon-10-Mile-May-10-2025

    10 Miles 26.2 Miles Marathon Run Trail

    11200 S Willow Springs Rd, Cook County, Illinois, 60465, United States
    OpenStreetMap Google Maps
  • CHICAGO 7-11 Hour Endurance Run [yetitrailrunners.com] [Register at ultrasignup.com]

    Sat, May 16, 2026 at 7:00 AM

    Run Ultra

    9800 Wolf Rd, Cook County, Illinois, 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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