Photo Aveedibya Dey / Unsplash
- Half
Chicago
Chicago Half Marathon
Flat along Lake Shore Drive, Jackson Park to the Statue of the Republic.
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2027 edition
Next up
Countdown
328
days to 26 Sep 2027
- Distance
- Half Marathon
- Course
- Flat
- Climb
- 40 m
- Entry
- —
About
The race
The Chicago Half Marathon is an annual half marathon on the South Side of Chicago, taking place on a largely out-and-back course along Lake Shore Drive with views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline. Runner's World has named it one of the top 10 half marathons in the United States, and it is known locally as "The People's Race." The course starts in Historic Jackson Park, site of the 1893 World Columbian Exposition, journeys north with picturesque views of Lake Michigan and the famous Chicago skyline, then returns along Chicago's south Lake Shore Drive, passing through historic southside neighborhoods like Kenwood and Hyde Park, before finishing at the golden Statue of the Republic. The race weekend also includes a lively post-race Finish Festival with live music and food.
Location
Chicago, United States
North America · typically 16°C (61°F) on race day
Open in OpenStreetMapEvery year
Editions
Ballot, charity and tour places
Getting in
- Details
Ballot
Official entry waitlist open August 14 through September 18, 2026; selections by lottery from September 1, 2026 on a rolling basis until spots filled
Charity place
Charity running has become an important part of the Life Time Chicago Half Marathon & 5K; help support and run with a charity you are passionate about.
Other
Deferral: guaranteed spot in the following year's race with a new registration including 50% entry fee; deferral deadline September 20, 2026 (11:59pm CT)