What is the Chinatown 5k?

The Chinatown 5K is an annual race in Chicago’s Chinatown, featuring a 5K run/walk and a Youth Dash. This community event celebrates fitness, culture, and local heritage while supporting Project: VISION, a Chinatown-based nonprofit that helps youth reach their full potential through educational, personal, and civic development programs. The race takes participants through the vibrant streets of Chinatown, offering a scenic and energetic atmosphere.

When is the Chinatown 5k?

The race will take place on Saturday, July 19th at Ping Tom Park (East) Field House, 1700 S Wentworth Ave, Chicago, IL 60616, starting at 8:00 AM, so please be sure to arrive early.

Refund Policy

Unfortunately, we will not be able to refund any registrations.  

What happens if there is a bad weather? 

In the event of a lightning sighting or severe weather, the race will discontinue and/or be canceled.

Can I transfer my registration? 

Entry transfers are not permitted. 

When are the application deadlines? Can I sign up last minute?

Yes! Online and in-person registration will be open until the day of the event. Unless it sells out.  

Can non-binary athletes select non-binary as a gender option when registering? 

Yes. Awards will be given to the top three overall male, female, and non-binary finishers. 

Is there an age limit? 

There are no age restrictions for runners, and families are welcome to join the 5K! For children, there will be two paid Youth Dash events, a 200-meter dash and a 400-meter sprint, taking place after the 5K.

Is there a recommended training plan for the race? 

For a simple 5K training plan, start with three runs per week, gradually increasing your distance. In the first two weeks, alternate between running and walking to build endurance. By weeks three and four, aim to run at least 2-3 miles continuously while incorporating cross-training or strength exercises on non-running days. In the final two weeks, focus on running the full 5K distance, pacing yourself, and tapering with lighter runs before race day.

When & where is the packet pick-up? 

(Recommended – No Additional Fee)

During the week prior to race day, packet pickup will be available at:

• Wednesday, July 8th, at HS PV
• Saturday, July 11th, at South Loop
• Sunday, July 12th, at Old Town
• Wednesday, July 15th, at HS PV

Participants are strongly encouraged to pick up their packets in advance.

Race-Day Packet Pickup 

• $15 fee if requested at least one month in advance

• $25 fee if requested late or on race day

If you do not pick up your packet at one of the designated pre-race pickup locations and have not requested race-day pickup in advance, a $25 race-day fee will apply.

Mailed Race Bib

Participants may choose to have their race bib mailed in advance for a $10 fee per registrant.

Race shirts and any additional items may be picked up after the race.

Can I walk the event?

Yes! Official timing ends at 8:50 a.m. though to accommodate for the children’s races at 9 a.m.! 

Will there be a bag check-in service? 

Yes! We will have a tent dedicated to holding your items while you participate in the event.

Are strollers and wheelchairs allowed? 

Strollers are allowed for walkers & joggers only and the parent/guardian must sign a waiver on behalf of their child(ren) in the stroller.

Are pets allowed on the course?

Pets are not allowed.

Where will the results be posted?

Results will be posted on our website shortly after the conclusion of the race. 

Will there be awards? 

Due to the size of our race, we will not be able to provide individualized medals for each age category. However, we will be recognizing the overall top three fastest times for male, female, and nonbinary, along with providing finisher medals at the end of the race.