Event Info - Independence Day Road Race Chicago

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the race start?

The 4 Mile race begins at 7:30 AM, followed by the Kids 1 Mile Run at 8:30 AM. Please arrive at least 45 minutes before your race start time to allow for parking and preparation.

Where do I pick up my race packet?

Bib distribution is available on race day beginning at 6:00 AM in the Festival Area. You'll need to show your unique bib number to pick up your bib in designated tents (1-99, 100-199, 200-299, etc.).

Is the race chip-timed?

Yes, all races are chip-timed. Your timing chip will be attached to your race bib. Results will be posted online immediately after the race and searchable by name or bib number.

What is your refund and transfer policy?

Due to logistical requirements, all registration fees are non-refundable and non-transferable. Deferrals to the following year are not available.

Are strollers and headphones allowed?

Strollers are permitted in the 1 Mile only and must start at the back of the pack. For safety reasons, headphones are discouraged but if used, please keep the volume low enough to hear course marshals and other runners.

Where can I find race results?

Live race results will be available at the finish line and posted on our website immediately after the race. You can search by name, bib number, or browse by age group. Results from previous years are also available in our archives.

What happens if there is severe weather?

The race will take place rain or shine. In the unlikely event of severe weather that poses a safety risk, race officials will make a decision by 6:00 AM on race day. Check our website and social media for updates. No refunds will be issued for weather-related cancellations.

Packet Pickup

Date: Friday, July 4th, 2026
Time: Starting at 6:00 AM
Location: Festival Area at Washington Park

Bib Distribution

You can pick up your bib in the Festival Area on race day beginning at 6:00 AM. Bibs are only available for pick up on race day. You'll need to show your unique bib number to pick up your bib in designated tents (1-99, 100-199, 200-299, etc.).

You must present your registration confirmation email to pick up your packet.

*Race day registration is not available.

Course Maps

4 Mile

4 Mile COURSE

Directions & Parking

Starting Line Location

Payne Dr, Chicago, IL 60615
Washington Park

Getting There by Metro

The Mall area can be reached using the following Metro stations:

Smithsonian/National Mall at 12th Street on the Mall
Federal Center SW at 3rd and D Streets, SW
L'Enfant Plaza at Maryland Avenue and 7th Street, SW
Archives-Navy Memorial at Pennsylvania Avenue and 7th Street, NW
Federal Triangle along 12th Street between Pennsylvania and Constitution avenues, NW

View the interactive Metro map for route planning.

Parking Options

Ronald Reagan Building Parking: 1300 Pennsylvania Ave NW (0.3 miles from start)
Colonial Parking: 1275 Pennsylvania Ave NW (0.4 miles from start)
PMI Parking: 600 14th St NW (0.5 miles from start)
Street Parking: Free but very limited. Arrive before 6:30 AM for best chance

Biking: Participants are encouraged to bike to the event when possible. Many parks and event areas are accessible by bike via nearby streets and shared-use paths.

Race Results

Race results are available immediately after the race and can be searched by name, bib number, or browsed by age group. All races feature chip timing for accurate results.

2026 Results

Results will be posted here immediately following the race on July 4th, 2026.

View Live Results

Previous Years

2025 Results 2024 Results 2023 Results 2022 Results 2021 Results (Virtual) 2020 Results (Virtual) 2019 Results

Elite Athletes

The Independence Day Road Race attracts some of the nation's top distance runners competing for prize money in the 4 Mile race.

2026 Elite Field

Elite athlete list TBD.

4 Mile Prize Money

Male and female elite athletes compete for the following prizes:

Place	Prize
1st Place	$1,000
2nd Place	$750
3rd Place	$500
4th Place	$250

*All prize amounts are in USD.

Non-monetary awards will be given to the top 3 male and female 1 Mile athletes during the awards ceremony.

Elite Athlete Registration

Are you an elite runner interested in competing? We offer complimentary entry for athletes meeting qualifying standards. Qualifying standards are available in the application form.

Media Information

The Independence Day Road Race welcomes media coverage and provides full support for journalists, photographers, and content creators covering the event.

Media Credentials

Media credentials are available for working press, photographers, and broadcast media. Credentials provide access to the start/finish area, press tent, and designated course locations.

To request credentials, please email info@independencedayroadrace.com with: