Registration 

 

What is the Chinatown 5k?

 

The Chinatown 5K is an annual race in Chicago’s Chinatown, featuring a 5K run/walk and a Youth Dash. This community event celebrates fitness, culture, and local heritage while supporting Project: VISION, a Chinatown-based nonprofit that helps youth reach their full potential through educational, personal, and civic development programs. The race takes participants through the vibrant streets of Chinatown, offering a scenic and energetic atmosphere.

 

When is the Chinatown 5k?

The race will take place on Saturday, July 19th at Ping Tom Park (East) Field House, 1700 S Wentworth Ave, Chicago, IL 60616, starting at 8:00 AM, so please be sure to arrive early.

 

When are the application deadlines? Can I sign up last minute?

Online application will close May 31st; however, in-person registration will be open the day of! 

 

What is the entry fee for the 2025 race? 

Chinatown 5K

• Early bird $40 (until March 15)

• General: $45 (until April 26)

• Late: $50 (until May 31)

• Day of: $60

Youth Dash

• Youth early: $20 (until April 26)

• Youth general: $25 (until May 31)

• Day of: $30

Others

•  Fundraisers - free

•  Virtual runner: $50

 

Can non-binary athletes select non-binary as a gender option when registering? 

Awards will be given to the top three overall male, female, and non-binary finishers. 

 

Is there an age limit? 

There are no age restrictions for runners, and families are welcome to join the 5K! For children, there will be two paid Youth Dash events—a 200-meter dash and a 400-meter sprint—taking place after the 5K.

 

Pre-Race Preparation

 

When and where is the packet pick-up? Can I pick up the packets on the day of the race?

Coming Soon.

 

Is there a recommended training plan for the race? 

For a simple 5K training plan, start with three runs per week, gradually increasing your distance. In the first two weeks, alternate between running and walking to build endurance. By weeks three and four, aim to run at least 2-3 miles continuously while incorporating cross-training or strength exercises on non-running days. In the final two weeks, focus on running the full 5K distance, pacing yourself, and tapering with lighter runs before race day.

 

Race Day

Can I walk the event?

Yes! Official timing ends at 8:50 a.m. though to accommodate for the children's races at 9 a.m.! 

 

Will there be a bag check-in service?

Yes! We will have a tent dedicated to holding your items while you participate in the event. 

 

 

What on-course support will be provided (water, snacks, medical support, toilet, place to change)?

 

Are strollers and wheelchairs allowed?

Strollers are allowed for walkers & joggers only and the parent/guardian must sign a waiver on behalf of their child(ren) in the stroller.

 

Are pets allowed on the course?

 

Pets are not allowed.

 

Where can I park?

We encourage our participants and guests to take public transportation whenever possible. There will be a limited number of metered parking spots throughout the Chinatown area.

 

TRAIN: We recommend taking the train on the day of. Chinatown is conveniently located right off of the Red Line at Cermack- Chinatown. 

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BUS: If you prefer to take the bus, you can take the 62 bus and exit at Archer + Wentworth. 

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CAR: If you are driving from the north side, take I-90/94 and exit off 18th Street. Head EAST on 18th Street and make a right on Wentworth Ave.

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If you are driving from the south side, take I-90/94 and exit off of 22nd Street. Head NORTH onto Wentworth Ave. and make a left onto Archer Ave. 

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[Sidenote: If you plan to park in Chinatown on the day of, please be sure not to park on the streets where the race is taking place! Also, meter parking begins at 8 A.M.] 

 

Where will the results be posted?

 

Results will be posted on our website shortly after the conclusion of the race. 

 

Will there be awards? 

Due to the size of our race, we will not be unable to provide individualized medals for each age category. However, we will be recognizing the overall top three fastest times for male, female, and nonbinary, along with providing finisher medals at the end of the race. 

 

What booths will be at the event? 

To be announced soon!

 

Race Cancellation 

What happens if there is bad weather?

In the event of a lightning sighting or severe weather, the race will discontinue and/or be canceled.

 

Can I transfer my registration?

 

Entry transfers are not permitted. 

 

Can I purchase a refundable booking and if so, what does it cover?

 

Unfortunately, we will not be able to refund any registrations. 

Couldn’t find an answer to your question.

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