America’s sweetest run is back for our most indulgent Hot Chocolate Run season yet in Chicago on November 5, 2023! With 5K, 10K, 15K and 2- Mile distances and a post-run party that’ll make you go cocoa crazy, you and your friends will experience the ultimate chocolate celebration!
award-winning swag kit
Hot Chocolate Run kits are choc-full of sweetness! An exclusive full-zip hoodie and finisher’s medal that will make you melt are included with every Hot Chocolate Run registration!
race day experience
What would a CHOCOLATE run be without the CHOCOLATE? The sweetest award awaits you at the finish line. (And no, we aren’t talking about that well-deserved medal!) Indulge in a finisher mug overflowing with chocolate fondue, dippables, and, of course, our famous HOT CHOCOLATE! Still not enough chocolate? Stop by the pre-event expo where you can warm-up your sweet tooth, check out vendors, and stock-up on Hot Chocolate merch. And for the cherry (or should we say marshmallow?) on top of this chocolate experience, join the Cocoa Club!
location & time
Grant Park
301 S Columbus Dr,
Chicago, IL 60605
5k run start time: 7:30 am
10k run start time: 7:30 am
15k run start time: 7:30 am
2-Mile walk start time: approximately 8:15 am
Gear check opens 60 mins before start time
Please note that your bib must be fully visible on the front of your torso and fully attached for you to receive an accurate time and to access your start corral.
post-run party
Discover a chocolate-lover's oasis at the post-run party at Grant Park! You'll celebrate in one of Chicago’s most scenic parks with live music, vendors, and a Chocoholic finisher's mug full of fondue, dippables, and hot chocolate.
expo
Navy Pier, Festival Hall B 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
Our Hot Chocolate Expo is free and open to the public. Pick up your runner’s kit (including your race day swag and bib!), indulge in delicious CHOCOLATE, gear up on Hot Chocolate merchandise, and visit our exciting vendors!
Friday, November 3, 202312:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Saturday, November 4, 2023 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
If you do not choose to have your packet mailed, you must attend expo to pick up your packet.
parking
hotel
Find a hotel located close to the start line! Book your stay using the Hotel Planner link below to take advantage of exclusive discounted rates.
photos & timing
Free high-res photos and your race time will be emailed to you as soon as you cross the finish line. The link below will also be updated on race day, so check back then!
Chicago course highlights
Downtown River Walk
Grant Park
Millennium Park
Soldier Field
You’ll start and end in iconic Grant Park—with runners taking off next to The Art Institute of Chicago and the Bean, and crossing the finish line by Buckingham Fountain! You’ll see landmarks on the routes are places like Maggie Daily Park, Jay Pritzker Pavilion, James R. Thompson Center, Chicago City Hall, Chicago Board of Trade, McCormick Place, Solider Field, the Field Museum, and more!
Top 3 male and female winners in the 5K, 10K and 15K:
- Will be announced at the Post Race Party at the DJ Stage
- Receive 100% off next year’s registration and $40 merch coupon emailed 1-2 weeks after the race
1st Place in each Age Group for the 5K, 10K and 15K:
- Receive 100% off next year’s registration and $40 merch coupon emailed 1-2 weeks after the race
- Age Groups: U14, 15-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70+
find your gear
local sponsors
national sponsors
don't miss the details