Restricted Items
- Strollers: Please note that strollers are not permitted due to security.
- Bags: We encourage participants to leave bags of all sizes at home. We will have a limited bag check on site.
- Water Bottles: No water bottles are allowed due to airfield restrictions. Water will be provided.
- Drones: No drones are permitted on the airfield. However, Go-Pros are acceptable.
Who can participate?
The event is open to ALL! We encourage runners, walkers, families, children, corporate teams, and community members of all fitness levels to sign up. Please note that strollers are not permitted due to security.
Is the event family-friendly?
Yes. The Midway 5K is designed to be family-friendly and inclusive. However, please note that strollers are not permitted due to security.
Are walkers allowed?
Walkers are welcome to join the 5K course! All walkers will begin in the back corral to ensure that runners can maintain their pace.
Is there a kids race?
Yes. The Midway Miler for Kids begins at 10:00 AM. This event is intended for children aged 5-10.
Where and when does the event take place?
The event takes place at Midway Airport in Chicago on Sunday, September 13.
- 7:30 AM: Race Day Security Screening/Registration
- 9:00 AM: 5K Start
- Post Race: 5K Awards Ceremony
- 10:00 AM: Kids Miler
- Post Race: Kids Miler Awards Ceremony
- 11:00 AM: Race Day Concludes
What happens if there is bad weather?
The race will continue rain or shine.
Who benefits from the event?
Proceeds support Special Children’s Charities, a 501c3 organization. You can learn more about their work here: https://specialchildrenscharities.org/
How do I register?
Participants can register online at secure.qgiv.com/event/midway5k/
When and where is packet pickup?
Thursday, September 10, 2026
Location: Special Children’s Charities (South Loop)
2 E 8th St, Suite 2M
Chicago, IL 60605
Time: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM*
*Time subject to change
Friday, September 11, 2026
Location: Running Excels (Beverly)
10328 S Western Ave
Chicago, IL 60643
Time: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM*
*Time subject to change
Saturday, September 12, 2026
Location: Hale Park Fieldhouse
6258 W. 62nd St.
Chicago, IL 60638
Time: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM*
*Time subject to change
What should I bring with me for packet pickup?
Participants should bring a photo ID so our team can quickly confirm their registration. For anyone who does not have a photo ID, we recommend bringing their registration confirmation email instead.
If someone plans to pick up a packet on behalf of another participant, we ask that the registered participant email us at info@ignitebluepartners.com in advance with the name of the person who will be picking it up. We’ll make a note in our tracker so our team knows they are authorized to receive the packet.
For any registered minors, a parent or guardian may pick up their packet on their behalf.
Are sponsorship opportunities available?
Yes! We welcome all contributions and support. If you’re interested in learning more, please contact info@ignitebluepartners.com
Can organizations create teams?
Yes. Corporate, community, school, and family teams are encouraged.
Will there be parking?
The Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) Economy Parking Garage and Lot is located at 5050 West 55th Street. Staff will be onsite to direct participants through the Laramie pedestrian exit and down the street to the Southwest Airlines hangar entrance. Complimentary parking validation will be provided at the event.
Wil there be awards?
Yes! All Awards Ceremonies will take place in the Southwest Airlines hangar post 5K and post Kids Miler races!
5K Awards
- Top Overall Male
- Two roundtrip Southwest Airlines tickets to anywhere Southwest flies (Valid for one year)
- Top Overall Female
- Two roundtrip Southwest Airlines tickets to anywhere Southwest flies (Valid for one year)
- “Mid-way” Runner – Participant who finishes mid-pack!
- Two roundtrip Southwest Airlines tickets to anywhere Southwest flies (Valid for one year)
Kids Miler Awards
Our youngest runners have plenty to celebrate too!
- Top Overall Male
- Southwest Airlines-branded canvas tote filled with goodies
- $100 Gift Card to Running Excels
- Four (4) Platinum Box tickets to the Chicago White Sox vs. Colorado Rockies game on September 25, 2026
- Top Overall Female
- Southwest Airlines-branded canvas tote filled with goodies
- $100 Gift Card to Running Excels
- Four (4) Platinum Box tickets to the Chicago White Sox vs. Colorado Rockies game on September 25, 2026
- “Mid-way” Runner – Participant who finishes mid-pack!
- Southwest Airlines-branded canvas tote filled with goodies
- $100 Gift Card to Running Excels
- Autographed Colson Montgomery Baseball
Additional race day details and logistics, including prizes and incentives, will be announced in the coming weeks. For any other questions, reach out to info@ignitebluepartners.com.