5K Races in Illinois
Illinois has 253 upcoming 5K races scheduled for 2026. The calendar runs year-round — busiest in August through October, quietest in February through April. No single city dominates the calendar. Chicago leads with 45 races, followed by Elk Grove Village (7), Belleville (7), and Rockford (4). The remaining 75% of the calendar is spread across smaller cities.
5K races by month in Illinois
Sep (70) · Oct (60) · Aug (47) · Nov (31) · Dec (14) · Jun (10) · May (8) · Jan (6) · Mar (3) · Feb (2) · Apr (2)
Showing 24 of 253
Running
5K Color Run/Walk Fundraiser
Mattoon, IL
Running
5K Color Run/Walk Fundraiser
August 15, 2026
Mattoon, IL
Running
Back-to-School Family Fun 5K
Wheeling, IL
Running
Back-to-School Family Fun 5K
August 15, 2026
Wheeling, IL
Top Cities for 5K Races in Illinois
Frequently asked questions
How long is a 5K race?▾
A 5K is 3.1 miles (5 kilometers). It is the most popular race distance in the US and a great starting point for new runners. RACE lists thousands of 5K events across all 50 states.
What is a good 5K time for beginners?▾
A good beginner 5K time is 30-35 minutes. Many first-time runners aim to complete the distance without stopping. The average US 5K finish time is around 28 minutes.
How do I find a 5K near me?▾
Use the RACE search bar to enter your zip code or state and filter by distance. You can also browse by month to find races that fit your schedule. Turkey Trots in November and charity 5Ks are especially popular.
How long does it take to train for a 5K?▾
Most couch-to-5K programs are 6-8 weeks long with 3 runs per week. If you can already jog for 10-15 minutes, you could be ready in 4-6 weeks with consistent training.