Manhattan Irish Fest Parade 5k
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Event
The Manhattan Irish Fest Parade 5k takes place on March 7, 2026, in Manhattan, IL. The event is a 5K road race that starts a parade and runs along the parade route. The course has timing mats at the start and finish and a sweeper that maintains a 22-minute per mile pace; runners must stay ahead of the sweeper to be guaranteed an official finish time. The race is organized in cooperation with the Irish American Society of County Will and the Prairie State Road Runners.
Logistics
The race forms at the intersection of North Street and Thelma Avenue and finishes at Second Street and Eastern Avenue. Parking in town is limited because of the parade; the Metra station at 15601 Sweedler Road is the designated parking and shuttle pickup area. The Metra station is also the designated packet pickup area on race day. Early packet pickup is available at Fitness Premier in Manhattan on the Friday before the race. There is no race day registration. There is no gear check; participants are advised to leave extra items in their cars.
Awards and post-race
Overall and age-group winners are announced at the finish line. Overall and Master (40 and over) winners receive trophies; other age groups receive medals for first through third. Age groups include 14 and under and five-year increments from 15-19 up to 80 and over. The post-race area includes snacks and water at the finish and access to the main festival tent with food, beverages, live music, Irish dancing, and bagpipe bands. Participants receive coupons for a free beer or non-alcoholic beverage. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
