Chicago’s race season offers so many options for your entire family! When there’s a good cause involved, it seems like a great opportunity to get your little ones moving. We’ve rounded up the best races and walks for Chicago kids in 2020.
‘Go Run
When: Ongoing
Where: Various locations in the city and suburbs
Cost: Free
In partnership with the Chicago Park District and the Chicago Area Runners Association, get up and race all over Chicago with these free, timed 5K or 1-mile runs in local parks. Here are the upcoming races:
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- Feb. 22: 63rd Street Beach Park (Chicago)
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- Feb. 29: Columbus Park (Chicago)
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- March 7: Warren Park (Chicago)
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- March 14: Humboldt Park (Chicago)
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- March 21: 63rd Street Beach Park (Chicago)
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- March 28: Washington Park (Chicago)
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- April 4: Warren Park (Chicago)
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- April 11: Humboldt Park (Chicago)
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- April 25: 63rd Street Beach (Chicago)
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- May 2: Warren Park (Chicago)
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- May 2: Lake Katherine (Palos Heights)
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- May 9: Humboldt Park (Chicago)
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- May 16:Â 63rd Street Beach Park (Chicago)
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- May 23: Big Marsh Park (Chicago)
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- May 30: River Park (Chicago)
Pi Day “Pi K” Fun Run/Walk
When: March 14
Where: Chicago (South Loop & Lincoln Square), Oak Park
Cost: $21-$31
If your family loves celebrating Pi Day, then why not include a fun run? Illinois Science Council will be holding three “Pi K” runs on Pi Day, which are also a great way to support a science organization.
Bank of America Shamrock Run
When: March 22
Where: Grant Park, Chicago
Cost: $35-50
Get in the St. Patrick’s Day spirit by dressing up from head to toe in green for this 8K run. Looking for something easier? There’s also a 2-mile walk along the lakefront — perfect for families of all ages.
Bunny Rock 5K
When: April 11
Where: Montrose Harbor, Chicago
Cost: $10-$20 egg hunt, $35-$60 5K
This spring race comes with a ’80s twist as you rock out along the lake. There are plenty of things for kids to do as well after the 5K including a kid’s egg hunt, live petting zoo and a visit from the Easter Bunny. With bunny ears and shades included, it’s the coolest way to enjoy Easter fun.
Best Buddies Friendship Walk
When: April 18
Where: Soldier Field, Chicago
Cost: Free ($50Â minimum donation to receive a Friendship Walk t-shirt)
Kids of all abilities can join this walk to support Best Buddies. Looking to give back more as a family? Work together to help spread the word and raise fundraising money.
The Champion of Trees 10K Run
When: April 19
Where: Morton Arboretum, Lisle
Cost: $52
Morton Arboretum provides a course with rolling terrain for those experienced runners who like a challenge. This ticket also includes free admission to the Morton Arboretum, so take in even more nature sights (or set up a picnic) after the run.
Autism Speaks Walk
When: May 3 (North Shore) & May 30 (Chicago)
Where: Northfield and Chicago
Cost: Free ($150 minimum to raise for walk t-shirt)
While two locations are available for Chicago families, the downtown walk offers sweet views of the lakefront and a fun after party you don’t want to miss.
Susan G. Komen Chicago Race for the Cure
When: May 10
Where: Montrose Harbor, Chicago
Cost: $10-$20
Spend Mother’s Day by taking a walk with the entire family to help raise funds for breast cancer research. Their goal is to reduce the current number of breast cancer deaths in the U.S. by 50 percent by 2026.
Race to Wrigley
When: May 16
Where: Wrigley Field, Chicago
Cost: $25-$44
Cubs fans, here’s the race for you. Support Cubs Charities by running around Lakeview and ending the race next to the Wrigley Field marquee. Always the perfect photo opp!
Move for Kids
When: May 17
Where: Soldier Field, Chicago
Cost: Free (Need to raise at least $50 for youth event t-shirt or at least $100 for adult event t-shirt)
While everyone can participate in the 5K event, kids ages 12 and under can take part in the 100-meter Kids’ Dash. Stick around for the post-race party on Stadium Green to enjoy snacks, beverages, music, games and more.
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This article is updated regularly.Â
