Coffee Lovers Run 5K/10K/13.1 CHICAGO/EVANSTON 2026 — Chicago, IL

Date
October 10, 2026
Location
Chicago, IL
Venue
Lakefront Trail (Course Map will be emailed)
Start Time
7:30 AM
Sunrise
6:56 AM
Entry Fee
$30.00 – $50.00
Events
5K Registration, 10K Registration, 13.1 Half-Marathon Registration, Family Fun Run 1 Mile, 5K/10K/13.1 Eco-Registration (No Shirt)
Includes
Running Shirt Packet | T-Shirt
Register NowRegistration Open

The Coffee Lovers Run starts at 7:30 AM on October 10, 2026, giving you time to arrive the night before and settle into accommodations near Chicago's lakefront. Based in Chicago and Evanston, this race uses the Lakefront Trail and offers four distance options: 1 mile, 5K, 10K, and half marathon. Entry fees range from $30 to $45 depending on distance selected. If travel logistics don't work out, a virtual participation option is available. The course map will be emailed before race day, so you'll have the specific route details in advance. This multi-distance format suits various fitness levels, whether you're building mileage or running full race pace.

From the Race Organizer
☕️ 🏃‍♂️ Love running? Love coffee? Why not both? Join us for the Coffee Lovers Run, where every mile leads you closer to great coffee, good vibes, and even better company. Set a goal, bring a friend, and join this super fun run. Forget the massive, impersonal race-day crowds. We keep things small, personal, and local, so every run feels less like a number and more like a memory. Whether it's a 5K, 10K, half-marathon, or virtual run, you'll get the warmth of a hometown event. Overview: Spots sell out FAST! We close each wave the moment it fills. Once a wave sells out, you can grab the virtual run option or join the waitlist. This is a smaller, private group run with a capped field per wave so it never feels crowded and you're never just a bib number. All paces and ages welcome (under 18 with a guardian) - run it, walk it, however you like! There's no gear, no setup, no fuss - just you, the course, and our coordinators cheering you on in a relaxed, stress-free setting. When you sign up, you're not just registering for a race - you're getting real support toward your fitness goals, plus an invite to join one of our local run clubs to keep the momentum going. Timing: Optional! Track your own time via Strava, RunKeeper, Nike Run, or similar, then submit it through our easy online form to get posted. Or just ask a coordinator to help time you. No timing chips - this is about progress, not pressure. What You Get (Swag Bag): - Running T-shirt (shipped to your address - U.S. only) - Finisher's medal - Virtual Training Run (emailed to you a month before your run) - Online results & certificate of completion - Invitation to join a local running club - NEW: Upgrade to a lightweight, moisture-wicking technical shirt for just $5 more Packet Pickup? Skip It. No lines, no hassle - your swag ships straight to your door. (Double check your full U.S. mailing address, including apartment number, when you register as your shirt is sent to this address!) Race bibs are simply handed out on race day. When Will My Swag Arrive? Your shirt will arrive at your mailing address the week of your race. Signing Up Last Minute? (Within 2 Weeks of the Race) No problem - just note that shipping may not catch up in time, so your shirt could arrive after race day. No worries, though: wear whatever you like and come run with us anyway! When Will I Receive the Course Map and Details? We'll send final participant info by the Wednesday before race day with all the details and course maps. Wave Times ( Once you've registered, use your confirmation number to reserve a wave here ) Wave A: 7:30 AM Wave B: 8:00 AM Wave C: 8:30 AM Running Late? Jump in when you arrive - our coordinators stay on-site for 3 hours after the first wave. Times may be subject to change depending on seasons, please check your participant info email! Got more questions? Check our FAQ . Virtual Run Option Prefer to run on your own time? Our Virtual Run includes a digital training pack to keep you on track. Run it whenever, wherever, with any tracking device you like (optional) — then send your results to info@thebestraces.com to claim your medal. Race Bundle Sign up for multiple races and save with a bundle discount. Sponsorships & Promoting Your Business Want to put your business in front of our community? We'd love to feature you as a sponsor. Learn more . Team Glo Volunteers Love helping people cross finish lines? Join our volunteer team and help bring these community runs to life. Sign up here . Be Part of the Journey Discover our charity initiatives at https://www.thebestraces.com/runforothers/ . Got a mission that helps people around the world? Let us help you fundraise at no cost to you. Your Race | Your Journey | Your Story

Course & Travel Notes

The Coffee Lovers Run takes place in Chicago on October 10th, 2026, with an early 7:30 AM start time, so you'll want to arrive in the area with plenty of time to settle in and grab some caffeine before the gun goes off. You'll be flying into Chicago Midway International Airport, which is just 9 miles from the race venue, making it a quick and convenient trip. Early October weather in Chicago tends to be mild with highs around 61°F and lows near 48°F, so bring layers you can shed as you warm up during the race, and keep an eye on the forecast since rain is fairly common that time of year. With sunrise at 6:57 AM, you'll have some natural light shortly after the start, which is perfect for those of us who aren't naturally morning people.

⛰️ 653 ft elevation☀️ Typically 61°F / 48°F✈️ Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) — 9 mi

Hotels Near This Race

Find accommodation close to the start line in Chicago, IL. Sorted by distance from the race venue. Book early — race weekend hotels fill fast.

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Coffee Lovers Run 5K/10K/13.1 CHICAGO/EVANSTON 2026 — Chicago, IL

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Race Travel Insurance

Don't forget travel insurance for October 10.

You've trained for months and booked a trip to Chicago, IL. A pre-race injury, a delayed flight, or a family emergency can derail the whole thing. Travel insurance can help cover your race entry fee, hotel, and flights if you can't make it, and may cover medical costs if something goes wrong on the course. Plans typically only run 5-7% of your total trip cost — and running events are covered under standard plans with no additional coverage needed.

  • Trip cancellation up to 100% of prepaid costs
  • Running events covered under standard plans — no add-ons needed
  • Trip interruption up to 150% of non-refundable costs
  • Emergency medical up to $250,000
  • Cancel For Any Reason add-on available
  • 24/7 real-time support

Affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no cost to you. Coverage terms vary by state and plan. Review policy details before purchase.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is Coffee Lovers Run 5K/10K/13.1 CHICAGO/EVANSTON 2026 — Chicago, IL?

Coffee Lovers Run 5K/10K/13.1 CHICAGO/EVANSTON 2026 — Chicago, IL takes place on October 10, 2026. The race is held in Chicago, Illinois.

Where is Coffee Lovers Run 5K/10K/13.1 CHICAGO/EVANSTON 2026 — Chicago, IL held?

Coffee Lovers Run 5K/10K/13.1 CHICAGO/EVANSTON 2026 — Chicago, IL is held at Lakefront Trail (Course Map will be emailed) in Chicago, Illinois.

Where can I find hotels near Coffee Lovers Run 5K/10K/13.1 CHICAGO/EVANSTON 2026 — Chicago, IL?

RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in Chicago. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.