Polka Run 5K
Sun, Jul 12, 2026, 7:00 AM CDT
- Location
- Chicago, IL
- Margaret T. Burroughs Beach And Park, 60616
- Featured distance
- 3.1 Miles
- Type
- RUN
Sign up and verify details on the organizer’s official page.
At a glance
Run, walk, or polka your way through Chicago's scenic lakefront in this vibrant, culture-rich 5K, part of the Lithuanian Folk Dance Festival.
- Fun
- Scenic
- Quirky
- Festive
Fun
Scenic
Quirky
FestiveWho it's for
- Walkers Welcome
Walkers WelcomeGreat for: walkers
Less ideal for: pure PR-chasing on a bare course
Experience the inaugural Polka Run 5K, a vibrant celebration of Lithuanian culture and community in Chicago. This unique event, part of the Lithuanian Folk Dance Festival, invites you to embrace the joyful spirit of polka, whether you choose to run or dance your way through the course. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan, all while being cheered on by an enthusiastic crowd. Wear the festive colors of the Lithuanian flag and join a moving celebration of movement and heritage.
What to expect
- Enjoy a flat course along Lake Shore Drive with stunning city and lake views.
- Walkers are warmly welcome to join the festive atmosphere.
- Receive a distinctive, custom finisher medal to commemorate your experience.
Standout details
- First Inaugural Edition
- Part of Lithuanian Folk Dance Festival
- Custom finisher medal
- Chicago skyline & Lake Michigan views
Perks & features
- Medal
MedalFrom the public listing — confirm on the official site.
Auto-drafted from the public listing — confirm details on the official event page before signing up.
Vibe Check
Easygoing
Easygoingwarm-day exposure
- Warm season
Based on terrain, weather, and distance data.
The course
- Flat
- Walkers welcome
From the organizer
Polka Run 5K – First Inaugural Edition
Welcome to the first-ever Polka Run 5K! This unforgettable race is proudly part of the Lithuanian Folk Dance Festival, taking place July 10–12 at McCormick Place Convention Center in Chicago.
The polka is a lively, joyful traditional dance known for its fast tempo and playful spins — the moment the music starts, your feet can’t help but twirl in circles! So what better place to celebrate the polka spirit than with the stunning Chicago skyline as your backdrop?
If you love to dance, come polka your way through the course. If you’d rather run — then run! Whether you take polka steps or running strides, enjoy the breathtaking views along Lake Shore Drive and the shores of Lake Michigan, cheered on by an amazing crowd. Wear the vibrant colors of the Lithuanian flag — yellow, green, and red — and turn the 5K into a moving celebration of culture and community, like autumn leaves dancing along the path!
Walkers are warmly welcome too! This is a limited-capacity event, so register soon and secure your spot to experience the run, the music, the energy, and the unforgettable Lithuanian vibe.
Join us for a celebration of movement, culture, and community — see you at the starting line!
Every runner and walker gets a distinctive, custom finisher medal — a memorable piece you’ll be excited to wear and show off!
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