Kid-Friendly Fun Runs Around Chicago

Brigitte Nohra Miller said:  Open to all, these race events are geared towards families, kids and everyone who would enjoy exercising and staying active! You can choose to run, jog or walk, strollers are allowed as well as friendly dogs. With three different locations, CARA offers several runs throughout the year to help the family stay healthy and active!

February - November

Shila said:  The city of Chicago is hosting its annual free, friendly running competition to see who is Chicago's fastest kid! All skill levels welcome! Kids are also invited to attend a skills clinic and demonstrations events, including drills, track sprints, agility games, and more.

This race for a good cause is an awesome activity for kids of all ages! Kids and parents have the choice of running/walking a 5K; younger kids can run a chip-timed 1 mile race or a 200 yard dash. This is a great way to develop a love for running and racing with very young kids, all while helping the Comer Children's Hospital at the University of Chicago. Additional fundraising is encouraged but not required.

Kristy Pepping said:  The Color Run 5K at Soldier Field where runners are showered with over 10,000 pounds of color. After the run, participants can enjoy music and carnival attractions at the Color Festival. Be sure to wear white to make the most of the colors at this race!

Kristy Pepping said:  Do you love donuts? Join Stan's Donut 5K & 1/2 mile kids dash. Enjoy donuts throughout the course and at the finish line. All Kids Dash participants receive a youth cotton shirt, race bib and of course donuts!

Brigitte Nohra Miller said:  Help spread awareness by taking part in this annual Autism Speaks Walk. This event is family friendly, suitable for kids and perfect for strollers or even wagons! Just bring the family to take part in the event, enjoy a walk by Soldier Field and help raise money and provide support for a great cause. And don't miss the after party with kids’ activities!

Brigitte Nohra Miller said:  Gather the family, get the kids involved and join Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago Foundation to raise money and help support their patients! Run for a cause and get the kids active and inspired for an active and better living and healthier choices! This is an untimed walk. Strollers and wagons welcome.

Vanessa M. said:  What could be sweeter than running a candy-themed race with candy-eating breaks and a candy-filled treat bag awaiting you at the finish line? The only thing sweeter would be knowing it benefits a good cause, GirlForward, a charity providing opportunities for refugee girls. The adult 5k race and the kids half-mile dash are held on the Lincoln Park walking paths. Make it a family event! Note that strollers are allowed only in the walking section.

Gina I. said:  Before you load up on stuffing, gravy & mashed potatoes, get active at the Turkey Day Run Chicago! This 5K/8K and "Plymouth Rock Ramble" kids race is open to "turkeys" of all ages and paces. Runners receive a limited edition race shirt, fisher medal, complimentary race photo, complimentary Begyle beer, and more. Plus, you'll enjoy warm apple cider, and a variety of pre- & post-race activities. Prizes are awarded to best dressed group (5 or more), so wear your best Thanksgiving-inspired gear!

Kristy Pepping said:  

Runners can start celebrating early in the morning at the St. Paddy's Day Run (formerly Leprechaun Leap) in Lincoln Park! Participants are encouraged to use their imaginations and don green attire to celebrate the Emerald Isle.

Gina I. said:  If you go a little overboard with the pie this Thanksgiving, not to worry! The Grant Park Turkey Trot is the perfect opportunity to burn some calories. This race benefits Playworks, an organization that aims to reduce bullying and keep kids active. Every finisher gets a medal, and racers will enjoy complimentary hot cider and a beer. Runners can also enjoy ooey gooey cinnamon rolls at the finish line. No need to feel guilty...you earned it! Choose from a 5K or 10K.

Kristy Pepping said:  Continue the St. Patrick’s Day celebration and kick off the running season at the Bank of America Shamrock Shuffle 8K or 2 mile walk. This run is a Chicago tradition with a course that weaves its way through downtown Chicago, starting and finishing in Grant Park.

Kristy Pepping said:  Run Mag Mile takes place on Michigan Avenue in downtown Chicago. There is an event for runners of all ability levels! A 15 minute/mile pace must be maintained or you will be rerouted to a shorter route by race officials. The race will end with brunch and beverages. Strollers are not allowed on the racetrack.

Kristy Pepping said:  The Oak Forest-Crestwood Area Chamber of Commerce and The City of Oak Forest, will host their Annual Oak Forest Fleadh 5K. A fleadh (pronounced "flah") is a traditional Irish festival with music and food! The Fleadh includes parties, an open streets event, a parade and the race!

Kristy Pepping said:  The Back on My Feet Chicago’s Mardi Gras Chaser at Montrose Harbor offers a fun race with masks, music, and motivation. All race participants will receive masks to be worn on the race day a swag bag, and beads at the finish line. Your kids will love this fun and healthy Mardi Gras celebration! Best of all, proceeds benefit Back on My Feet, a local non-profit helping Chicagoans facing homelessness.