Ditka Dash

Ditka Dash

Ditka Dash is a themed 5K race taking place on December 12, 2026 at Soldier Field in Chicago (1410 Special Olympics Dr). The event includes a postrace celebration with food, live music, and beer available at the finish.

Participants receive event swag that includes an iconic mustache, aviator sunglasses, a race shirt inspired by a sweater vest, and a finisher medal. Packet pick-up options are provided: pre-race pickup at Da Fan Club (1001 N North Branch) on the listed pre-race dates, third-party pickup by presenting a QR code, and a VIP race day packet pick-up for a fee. Parking is available in nearby Soldier Field garages and lots for a fee; organizers recommend carpooling or public transit due to expected traffic and street closures.

The race is a single distance event, 5K (3.1 miles). A team division called Ditka-Pede allows teams of two or more to run connected by props; teams must start and finish connected, wear mustaches, and provide a team name. Awards are planned for top finishers and for team and costume categories, including specific Ditka-Pede prizes.

Registrations are nonrefundable and nontransferable. The event will proceed rain or shine; race officials may delay, postpone, or cancel for safety reasons. There is a lightning policy that imposes postponements when lightning is detected within a specified radius. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

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