6 Races to Run in December

The Chicago area has several great races to keep you running this month

Another brutal winter may be in store for Chicago, but the snowfall and frigid temperatures are no excuse not to run. If you need a little extra motivation this December, register for one of these local races and hit the track.

December 6

Chicago Santa Speedo Run -- This 1-mile run is a race for those embrace the cold of a Chicago winter. Participants don speedos and holiday gear for the run to raise awareness for diabetes. The event starts at Shenanigans on Division Street.

Santa Hustle 5K -- This race is helping runners get in the holiday spirit with candy and cookies available throughout the race course. The run is partnered with the American Cancer Society, and participants can join their team to raise money. The event takes place along the lakefront near McCormick Place.

December 13

Chiller 5K and 10K -- The Muddy Monk trail running team is challenging winter runners to outrun the cold on a trail that goes "through the cold woods, over roots, trees and rocks." The race begins at 10 a.m. at the Hammel Woods Forest Preserve in Shorewood, Ill.

Jingle Bell Run/Walk Chicago -- Run a 10K or walk a 5K in this festive race. Participants dress in holiday-themed costumes and win a medal that doubles as a Christmas tree ornament. The event takes place near the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum.

December 14

Rudolph Ramble 8K -- This 8K race is part festive run, part toy collection for the Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital. Participants receive a Norwegian-inspired winter ski cap and a pair of antlers, and they can donate toys during packet pick-up or on race day. The events takes place at Diversey Harbor in Lincoln Park.

December 31

The James Chicago City Running Tour -- Looking for an activity to entertain the relatives in town? This running tour starts at the James Hotel on Ontario Street and takes runners down the river path for a scenic urban tour. Not exactly a race, this running tour is another great way to keep you running throughout the winter.

Contact Us