Ditka Dash
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Ditka Dash - Soldier Field, Chicago, October 3, 2026
The Ditka Dash is a 5K (3.1 miles) event held at Soldier Field in Chicago on October 3, 2026. All participants receive an event mustache, aviator shades, a race shirt inspired by a sweater vest, and a finisher medal. The event includes an on-site post-race festival with live music, beer, and Polish sausage.
Packet pick-up is available in three ways and requires a QR code from registration: an in-person early pick-up option (Thursday, October 1, 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.; Friday, October 2, 12:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.), third-party pick-up during those times with the registrant's QR code, or race day packet pick-up for a fee ($20) at the race site from 9:00 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. Only registrants for race day packet pick-up may use that service.
The event uses the Dash-O-Meter 3000 timing device attached to official bibs. Participants must maintain at least a 20:00 minute pace per mile; walkers are permitted but must meet the pace requirement. A team division called Ditka-Pede allows two or more connected participants to run together; Ditka-Pede teams must start and finish connected, wear the event mustache, and register a team name. Awards include top three male and female finishers and several team and costume categories.
Parking is available in the North Garage, South Lot, and Waldron Garage for $20; carpooling or public transit is encouraged. Registrations are nonrefundable and nontransferable. The event proceeds whatever the weather, though officials may delay, postpone, or cancel for safety concerns; lightning within a 10 mile radius triggers a 30 minute postponement protocol. Volunteers are needed for course marshal, aid stations, gear check, packet pick-up, and water stations. The 2026 beneficiary is to be announced. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
