2026 Life Time Chicago Half Marathon + 5K
Life Time Chicago Half Marathon: fast lakefront running with skyline views.
Race Date
Sep 27, 2026
Location
Chicago, IL
Quick facts
- Date
- Sunday, September 27, 2026
- Location
- Chicago, Illinois
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi)
- Course
- Loop Course
- Terrain
- Road
- USATF certified
- Not listed
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
Starting and finishing in historic Jackson Park, the Life Time Chicago Half Marathon draws nearly 8,800 runners from 49 states for a flat, fast course along Lake Shore Drive. The closed road winds through vibrant Southside neighborhoods with the Chicago skyline as a constant backdrop and lakefront breezes to keep you cool.
With 27 editions under its belt and a loyal 13% repeat-runner rate, this race has become a fall tradition. The point-to-loop course is a PR magnet, and the post-race festival rewards finishers with a huge medal, live music, and plenty of food. Whether you're chasing a Boston qualifier or just taking in the city from a unique angle, this well-organized event delivers a top-tier urban half-marathon experience.
Race-provided description
The Life Time Chicago Half Marathon and 5K is an annual race starting and finishing in Jackson Park, featuring a course along Lake Shore Drive through historic Southside neighborhoods with skyline views. The event also includes a Kids Run for ages 2-12 and a Half Marathon Series that pairs with the Spring Half.
Logistics
Race Day
Sunday, September 27, 2026
Start Time
TBA
Start Location
Jackson Park, Chicago, IL, 60637
Course Info
Course Type
Loop Course
Terrain
road
Scenery
Urban, Lake River
Difficulty
Ultra-Flat
Quality Score
Standout7327 years running
~7,342 finishers a year
growing or steady
13% returning runners
5 timing sources
runners from 49 states
winner 0:54:35
typical high 71°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
57°
Afternoon (High)
72°
Warm — hydration strategy is key, start conservatively
0.2"
Precipitation
10 mph
Wind
76%
Humidity
Frequently asked
When is the 2026 Life Time Chicago Half Marathon + 5K?
The 2026 Life Time Chicago Half Marathon + 5K is held on Sunday, September 27, 2026.
Where does the 2026 Life Time Chicago Half Marathon + 5K take place?
It takes place in Chicago, Illinois.
What distances does the 2026 Life Time Chicago Half Marathon + 5K offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles).
Is the 2026 Life Time Chicago Half Marathon + 5K course flat and good for a PR?
The 2026 Life Time Chicago Half Marathon + 5K is a ultra-flat, loop course course.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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