Christmas in July Half Marathon and 5K (Chicago area)

Get ready to sleigh your summer stride at the Christmas in July Half Marathon and 5K, happening on Saturday, July 18, 2026, in scenic Elk Grove Village, IL. This festive event transforms the beautiful Busse Woods Forest Preserve into a holiday-themed running wonderland, offering both a challenging 13.1-mile course and a spirited 5K. Runners will enjoy a mostly flat, fast road course winding through shaded woods and picturesque park scenery, providing a refreshing escape from the typical summer heat. Typical race day conditions in July see highs around 85°F and lows around 67°F, with a 16% chance of precipitation, making the shaded course a welcome feature.

What truly sets this race apart is its unique holiday spirit, complete with an abundance of "chillin' summer Xmas swag." Participants receive cool sublimated Christmas-themed tech shirts or tank tops, sunglasses, a Christmas cinch sack, and custom bibs adorned with festive names. Every finisher will jingle all the way home with a unique blinking lights medal ornament; half marathoners even get a special combination dial to log their finish time on their medal. The course is well-supported with plenty of water and snack stations, including grapes and Flavor-Ice at various points for half marathoners, along with accessible restrooms. Some past events have even featured "snow on the course" and opportunities to win prizes by carrying Santa to aid stations.

The celebration continues post-race with a lively Christmas party at the finish line, offering treats, soft drinks, PB&Js, and beer for those 21 and over. Runners have consistently praised the "awesome race and swag" and the "great course," making it a memorable experience for both seasoned athletes and casual participants. With ample parking and early packet pickup available near the start/finish area at Busse Woods South, Grove #5, the Christmas in July Half Marathon and 5K promises a joyous and well-organized run through nature's beauty.