The course for a 5K is 3.1 miles. 

Click here!

As a reminder, this is a fun, celebratory event for our participants and not a competitive race. While our fastest 5K participants will complete the course in 25 minutes, most cross the finish line in 30-50 minutes. Everyone who participates is encouraged to walk, roll, push, run or skip at their happy pace!

Stay tuned!

First, we understand that life happens, and circumstance might make it impossible to attend.

We strongly encourage that all participants attend and complete the 5K, as it is the goal that teams are preparing for all season long! It’s the ultimate opportunity to build confidence through accomplishment. Remember, this is the first 5K event for many – including coaches, participants, friends and family members. We are in it together!

For safety reasons, every participant must wear a race bib (provided by the council). Our council ensures every participant has a running buddy, and only critical 5K volunteers have access to confidential information.

To ensure every participant crosses the finish line, we monitor the course. Our council has a safety plan in place, which trains staff and volunteers on how to respond during an emergency or incident.

Yes. Girls on the Run 5K events are for everyone! All participants can walk, run, push or roll safely and at their own happy pace. Designated parking spots are available.

Every program participant at the 5K must run alongside a Running Buddy. A Running Buddy is an adult (18+, or a sibling 15+) of their choosing who is responsible for encouraging, motivating, and keeping them safe on the 5K course and throughout the day. Download our 5K training plan here!  

Yes! This is encouraged! This is a great way to accomplish a goal together. 

Absolutely! Every registered participant who completes the 5K will receive a medal.

Yes! Family, friends and community members outside of our program can participate in the event, but must register.

Our official parking partner for the 5K is Millennium Garages. They’re offering a special event rate of $14 for up to 12 hours for participants and spectators in the Grant Park South Garage. Purchase discounted parking here.

Located just to the south of the Art Institute of Chicago, the Grant Park South Garage is located along South Michigan Avenue between Jackson Boulevard and Van Buren Street (325 S. Michigan Avenue Chicago, IL 60604).

If you are taking the CTA, the Van Buren Red Line stop is the nearest Chicago 'L' station. If you are taking the Metra, the Museum Campus/11th Street stop is the nearest. 

A site-based 5K means the 5K course will take place at the site where an individual team practiced throughout the season. 

Yes. All 5K registration forms include liability waivers.

Yes! As this is the highlight of the season, there will be multiple activity stations! 

Nope!

View our 5K Volunteer FAQ here!

Yes, there will be a private space available.  It will not have power or refrigeration.