Ditka Dash
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Ditka Dash : Chicago holiday 5K
The Ditka Dash is a themed 5K road event held at Soldier Field in Chicago on December 12, 2026. The event includes packet pick-up at a nearby location in the days before the race and an optional VIP race day packet pick-up service for an added fee.
All participants receive event swag including an iconic mustache, aviator shades, a race shirt inspired by a sweater vest, and a finisher medal. Participants are offered beer at the finish line and a postrace gathering called Da Mustache Bash with Polish sausage and live music.
The event uses the Dash-O-Meter 3000 timing system and does not enforce a time limit. A specialty division called Ditka-Pede challenges teams of two or more to run connected by Christmas lights, bungee cords, or other props; rules call for a team name, visible bibs, mustaches for all team members, and that teams start and finish connected. Awards are given across multiple categories including top overall finishers, team awards, and Ditka-Pede honors.
Volunteers are requested for roles such as course marshal, aid station, packet pick-up, and water station. The event also collects new, unwrapped toys for a holiday toy drive. Registrations are nonrefundable and nontransferable. The race proceeds will be used to cover event production costs, and organizers reserve the right to delay, postpone, or cancel for safety reasons such as lightning. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
