Christmas in July Half Marathon and 5K Chicago

Safety is our top priority.  We have hosted and timed over 300 socially distanced and safe races in 2020 and 2021 and will continue to follow local protocols and safety guidelines set forth by local authorities at the time of the event.  Now let's get back to racing in 2022!  Please check back closer to race day for official updates and safety protocols. 

Elf Off the Shelf Swag Includes

• Sublimated Unisex Tech Shirt or Women's Tank Top

• Elf Blinking Lights Medal

• Hat or Sunglasses

• Cinch Sack

• Custom Bibs with Unique Surprising Christmas Names

Snow Globe Swag

• Short Sleeve Tech Shirt

• Snow Globe Medal with Real Blinking Lights

• Hat or Sunglasses

• Cinch Sack

• Custom Bibs with Unique Surprising Christmas Names

This Event Works Closely with the Busse Woods Running Club

Established in August of 2017 by a small group of friends who run together all year round, Busse Woods Running Club (BWRC) has quickly evolved into a premier running organization. Runners of all abilities can enjoy group runs, social events, road trips, and community involvement with some of the most amazing people. Busse Woods Running Club is incorporated as a non-profit organization in the State of Illinois and a defined 501(c)(3) organization under the Road Runners Club of America Charter.

*Please check back closer to race date for official map updates*

Half Marathon Start Time:  7:00am

Water Stops:  Miles 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 4.6 / 6.1 / 7.6 / 8.6 / 10.6 / 11.6 / 12.6

Grapes/Flavor-Ice:  Miles 2 / 3 / 6.1 / 8.6 / 10.6 / 12.6

Restrooms: Miles 1 / 2 / 4.6 / 6.4 / 8.7 / 10.6 / 11.3 / 12.8

5K Start Time:  7:30 AM

Where Do We Park?  There is adequate parking all along Groves 5-16.  Get there super early to secure a spot near the start/finish area, but once parking spots fill, continue along the parking lot path for additional parking spots.  Click Here for Google Map Location 

Is the Course Good for Spectators?  Absolutely!  Here are google map locations that are easily accessible by car.

• Mile 6.1 & 10.6
• Mile 2 & 3

Is there Beer at the Finish Line?  Of Course!  We have a local craft brewery supplying excellent post race brew for all finishers after the race!

Is this a timed race?  Am I allowed to walk?  We are timing both events.  Walkers are welcome in both events!  Please note, the Half Marathon course closes at 4 hours. 

Can I bring my kids?  Strollers?  Pets?  Yes - this is a kid, pet, and stroller friendly event.  

Is this a closed course?  NO - **very important** to note that the course will be open to bikers and roller bladers.  Please stay to the right side of the course and do not block oncoming traffic in the oncoming lane of the bike path

Is this a fun run?  Are there trophy’s or prizes for the top finishers? 

A:  Yes, Top 3 Male/Female Overall Winners.  Top 3 Male/Female in each Age Group. Overall and age group winners will receive special overall and age group medals. Overall Winners will be announced around 8:15am.  Age Group Winners will be announced around 8:30am.

1-12
13-19
20-29
30-39
40-49
50-59
60-69
70+
 
Q:  Are there Half Marathon Awards? 
A:  Yes, Top 3 Male/Female Overall Winners.  Top 3 Male/Female in each Age Group. Overall winners and 1st in age group will receive a shot glass and special overall and age group medal.  2nd and 3rd place will receive a special age group medal.  Overall Winners will be announced around 9:00am.  Age Group Winners will be announced around 9:30am.

13-19
20-29
30-39
40-49
50-59
60-69
70+

Results and Age Group Awards will post live at: www.J3Timing.com

Can I Pick up my Packet on Race Day?  Yes - we recommend arriving early to beat the lines and will be set up by 6am

There are many hotels just west of Busse Woods