FAQs
What is the Dim Sum & Then Some Race?
Chinese Mutual Aid Association’s annual Dim Sum & Then Some: The Uptown 5K/10K & Kids Dash is a unique race, fundraiser, and community event that highlights the diversity of the Uptown neighborhood, with all proceeds benefiting low-income immigrant and refugee communities.
More than just a run or walk, the event offers a vibrant cultural experience. At the start, participants receive a traditional Lao blessing ceremony, where a string is tied around their wrists for good luck. Lion dancers then perform to kick off the race with symbols of prosperity and good fortune. Along the course, runners pass Uptown’s historic attractions and continue along the Chicago lakefront. After crossing the finish line, participants are invited to a post-race block party featuring dim sum, bubble tea, and cultural performances by CMAA’s youth dance groups. Through this event, CMAA celebrates and showcases the rich heritage and diversity of the Uptown community.
What time does the race start?
Registration & Packet Pick-Up begins at 6:30 AM
Kids Dash starts at 7:30 AM
10K starts at 8 AM
5K starts at 8:10 AM
How much does the race cost?
5K
$45 through April 26
$50: April 27 - June 26
$55: June 27 - July 26
$60: July 27 - July 31
$70: Race Day
10K
$52 through April 26
$57: April 27 - June 26
$62: June 27 - July 26
$67: July 27 - July 31
$80: Race Day
Kids Dash
$20 through April 26
$25: April 27 - June 26
$30: June 27 to Race Day
What is included in the race swag?
All participants will receive a race short sleeve shirt, race bib, finisher medal, Bubble Tea, and DIM SUM!
What are the shirt sizes?
Shirt sizes range from X-Small to 3XL
Sizes are limited
Shirts are unisex fit
Are there group discounts?
Want to indulge in some yummy Dim Sum and Bubble Tea while supporting CMAA with your favorite people? Join our group program for exciting race perks such as discounts, support, team spirit, and more! For groups of 10 or more, we can offer a group discount for each participant and for companies or organizations paying 100% of their group’s registration fee in a single payment, we can offer an even deeper discount! Email dimsum5k@chinesemutualaid.org to get your group discount today!
Who qualifies as a group?
Organizations or Companies
Running Clubs or Gyms
Schools
Friends and Families
Charitable Organizations
PRE-RACE PACKET PICK-UP
When and Where is Packet Pick-Up?
FRIDAY
Date: Friday, July 31, 2026
Time: 12:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Location: Fleet Feet Lincoln Square: 4762 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60625
RACE DAY QUESTIONS
What time should I arrive for the race?
Please arrive ready to run before 8 AM.
Will gear check be available?
Limited Gear check will be available for this race but we highly suggest you to keep all personal items at home or in your vehicle.
Where can I park?
There will be street parking around the locations. We highly encourage taking public transportation, carpooling, or biking.
Where is the start and finish line?
Start and Finish Line will located on Argyle Street in front of the Self Help Home.
Will there be awards?
For the top THREE (3) male & female finishers. As well as the top three in each age group.
Where will the results be posted?
All results will be posted online live during the event. CLICK HERE to see the results.
What is the weather policy?
Sometimes, there are weather events beyond our control. (A little rain in the forecast won’t stop us.) But if there is a threat of more severe weather, the Dim Sum race is dedicated to ensuring the safety of all participants, volunteers, and spectators. If race officials deem the course unsafe because of weather conditions, race officials may cancel, delay, or change the event in case of extreme weather or other conditions that may affect the safety and health of participants. This will be communicated via email, social, and text messages.
What is the refund policy?
Since the Dim Sum 5K/10K & Kids Dash has many upfront costs, we have a strict and uniform policy of no refunds or exchanges, no person-to-person transfer, or no deferrals to a future year. We do understand that plans change, injuries happen, and various holiday festivities and situations arise, but, we feel it is most fair to apply a uniform policy to all, instead of a subjective line of who should receive a refund and who doesn’t. All purchases and sales are 100% final, no exceptions. Refunds will not be issued based on weather conditions. We appreciate your understanding in this matter.
COURSE QUESTIONS
What is the course like?
The course will be ran on the lakefront path. Check out the course tab for street-by-street directions and maps.
Are strollers allowed?
Yes, strollers are allowed. We just ask that you start in the back of the pack.
Can I walk the 5K or 10K?
Yes, walkers are always welcomed!
Are dogs/animals allowed?
While we love your fur-babies, dogs and other lovely pets are not allowed on the course.
How is the starting line set-up?
The 10K race will begin together at 8 AM and the 5K will begin together at 8:10 AM.
Where are the aid/water stations located?
There will be 3 water/aid stations located on the course for the 10K and 1 for the 5K.
KIDS DASH
How far is the Kids Dash?
The kids dash is about a 1/2 of a mile. It will start and finish at the same start and finish as the 5K and 10K.
What do the Kids receive?
All kids will receive a t-shirt, Kid's Finisher Medal, Race Bib, Dim Sum, BubbleTea and more!
