Captain a River Spirit Team for the Race the River 5K

Share your kindness, fun, and cheer for the Chicago-Calumet River system and its wildlife by serving as a River Spirit Team Captain for our inaugural Race for the River 5K and Family Festival on September 21.

By recruiting and leading a team of up to eight individuals, you and your fellow Spirit Team members will help raise funds in celebration of the river’s renaissance and support equitable trail access for all. A River Spirit Team leads with heightened enthusiasm and runs, walks or rolls the 5K race or the event’s guided nature walk. River Spirit Teams will also win awards for the highest fundraising team and the most spirited! Teams fundraise at least $1,600 by September 30, 2024, and Spirit Team captains must be at least 21 years old as of September 21, 2024.

Open to all ages and abilities, the festive 5K run/walk will begin in River Park in Chicago and follow the North Shore Trail north to Bernard Stone Park and circle back to end at River Park.  The 5K course is flat, scenic, and a great opportunity for both beginners and experienced runners. If you are not up for running, sign up for our more leisurely guided nature walks around River and Ronan Parks. Following the race or walk, join us for the after party to engage in fun river-centric activities, enjoy drinks and snacks, and connect with community organizations. Family- and pet-friendly, all are welcome. 

Click here for more details about the day’s events including race wave logistics, transportation/parking, and nature walks.