Chicago 5K
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Chicago 5K event information
The Abbott Chicago 5K is a city road race held in October in Chicago, Illinois. The 2027 edition takes place on Saturday, October 9 with race activities centered in Grant Park and packet pick-up and the Abbott Health & Fitness Expo at McCormick Place on the two prior days. The course covers 5K (3.1 miles) through downtown and passes notable Chicago landmarks. One on-course aid station is provided near the halfway point offering water, medical support and toilet facilities.
Participants are assigned start corrals based on projected pace per mile; runners may move back to a slower corral as space allows. Timing checkpoints are located at the start and finish lines, and digital clocks display elapsed race time. Runners must maintain a 15-minute per mile pace and complete the course within the event time requirement of 45 minutes 59 seconds to remain eligible for official recording and full on-course support.
Gear check is not available; participants are responsible for storing personal items offsite. Bib numbers must be worn on the front of outer clothing, fastened with four pins, kept visible, and not altered; the bib must include emergency contact and medical information on the back and is non-transferable. A limited packet mailing option is available to U.S. residents for a fee; the mailing includes the event bib number and a promotional item and has an advance purchase deadline. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
