Great race! Not very big, but put on well, for it being a neighborhood race. The course route was…read morevery well marked, with mile markers, and cones along the way. Edgewater 5k, is one of those races that attracts members in the neighborhood; some surrounding. Majority of the runners were elementary students, that attend the neighborhood schools in the Edgewater neighborhood. Some of the older runners were former students, or teachers at Edgewater schools What interested me about this event, was that some of the proceeds benefited the local schools; which ever one you chose to donate to. No, I'm not a former student of any of the schools, but i do attend church at Swift Elementary, which is one of the schools that participated in the race. I've also volunteered at Swift Elementary, so I felt the need to support Swift. Lots of post run food at the finish: bananas, pancakes, water, etc. ATHLETICO, was even on site, giving out massages to finishers which was great. Overall this event was great, and I look forward to running it again in the future. Enjoy, if you are considering this event in the future.

I admit -I'm a bit partial. This 5K was held by the gym I go to. I love this gym and sense of…read morecommunity of those who attend every day and I was really excited about this race. It's not every day that you know a large majority of people involved in the event you are attending. However, this review is an objective review based on my experience with many, many 5K events. I was super impressed as to how organized this race was, especially given the really bad weather yesterday. The weather held out until about 15 minutes prior to the start, and then it was a complete downpour! They made frequent announcements and were even prepared and passed out rain ponchos to those who wanted them. Since the registration disclaimer said "rain or shine", the race was on! I was particularly impressed with the turnout and excitement of the crowd to continue to run despite the rain. There were elite athletes going for time, the "regular folks" (like me) and a bunch of walkers and families with strollers. What I LOVED about all the people who were either registered or volunteering (or even those hanging out to support everyone) was that everyone was excited and pumped up and wanted to make this a great event regardless of the damper of the downpour! The route was great -in years past, I was told people in the neighborhood typically come out and cheer but this was not case due to the rain. You could see a few people on their front porch watching, but the weather definitely had an effect on the neighborhood "cheerleaders." No worries -the volunteers along the route were happy to give "high fives" and words of encouragement as they directed the participants down the route! My favorite part of the race was two things -fellow gym member, Theo, spinnin' house music at the finish and our "coach" Lamont, who trains us every day, cheering us on as we crossed the finish line. There is nothing better than having your "coach" see the rewards of all of his training! I am definitely doing this race next year and am hoping for much better weather!

I enjoyed this race despite it being one of my worse 5K run times ever due to not training…read morewhatsoever. Normally in preparation for a 5K, I would do some sort of speed work in-between normal mileage leading up to the event, however both lacked because of life responsibilities. The glorious part about not training is that your pacing is off. Once I clocked that first mile I had an idea of what pace I preferred. Other than that, it felt great not to have that expectation to go out and kill myself, which took a stress load off. But best believe next year I have a goal! And that goal is to beat that 21:33 time that is hovering over my head at the moment. I loved the support that this race had along its course, and the race official brought enthusiasm. Outside of the volunteers on the course there were also people cheering us on from their window or porch, which is rare during a 5k event. The course itself was very accurate, flat, and out-and-back with nothing extra. It was also well marked, yet had a biker guiding the lead runner with everyone else following. Out-and-back courses are fun because you encounter the other runners in route back to the finish, which gives you that extra support to push on. The only thing that can hinder your performance during this race is the weather, so I recommend wearing something on the lines of a light long-sleeved shirt or either that fantastic race shirt with arm warmers. We all know that Chicago weather is unpredictable in the fall, so do not count out wearing shorts. With all being said if you are considering Lawndale 5k you will not be disappointed. Thomas G

Since so many people on our ride asked, puzzled, "What is this? Is it a race? Is it Critical Mass?…read moreWhat's going on?" I figured that writing a review for this great active event was only appropriate. Now, you won't have any excuse to miss the 2014 edition!! I feel that during most active/sporting events, no matter how well organized they can be, there's always something to complain about. Well, not this time. From beginning to end, it was flawless! Easy online registration (yeah, there are these annoying fees, but what can you do about it? To make it all better, I highly recommend to make a quick search about coupons. Whatever you buy online, there's a coupon for it. Most of the time. This time, I snatched a $10 off on each registration. Yay me), convenient pick up times, great directions, map, tee-shirt. And an awesome urban adventure. Here's the deal: you choose a distance. 12, 22, 35 or 62 miles.They select four different food providers. And you stop along the way for water (ice cold!!!!), food and bathroom breaks, for however long you want. You are given a map to follow but there's also excellent marking on the street. I was so impressed by the work they put into it!! It's (almost) impossible to get lost. Volunteers ride along the way with you to assure a smooth day, and you just have to enjoy the vista. This year took us all on the North Side, and we discovered great hidden gems along the way such as the Alta Vista Terrace District within a stone-throw distance from Wrigley Field, to the Indian Boundary Park in West Rogers Park and the actual Rogers Park itself, from the North Shore Channel Trail to off the beaten path streets lined with beautiful mansions and bungalows. What a glorious city Chicago is, and what little of it most of us know. My group of friends and I did the 35 miler, and had a great time. It was plenty enough for us, but not so much that we were dead at the end of it. Cannot recommend it strongly enough! Words of wisdom: - wear padded shorts, it will make the whole thing way more comfortable (REI sells pretty affordable ones) - bring a water bottle; the stops are far and in between and if it's hot out, you'll want to chug water on a regular basis - wear your helmet! - visit the ATA (Active Transportation Alliance) website http://www.activetrans.org/ for more information on the event in particular, and biking in Chicago in general - have fun!

I'm hoping that this can become a biannual event, because partaking in this years version of Active…read moreTransportation Alliance's big showcase was a day I will remember for a long time. The levels of organization and friendliness offered by the ATA and their group of volunteers was remarkable and had me beaming positive vibes all ride long. In my own words, ATA is set up as a nonprofit which advocates for people of all backgrounds to have access to more options to get around the Chicago metro area that are affordable, safe and accessible. This particular event not only introduced "newbies" to their mission, but got around 3,000 people out as examples of that mission to the rest of the city. On at least three occasions I was asked (while stopped at red lights) what we were out on the ride for, which is to say their next event will probably involve more than 3,000 riders. A very good thing, in my opinion! As for the details of the rides- you have your choice on how to participate. With four distances (12, 22, 35 and 62 mile options), you can find one to your liking. All were incredibly well-marked with volunteers scattered about to direct people on the correct path, as well as easily identifiable markers spray painted on the streets (if you were like us and didn't have a nifty map holder installed onto your bike). An overwhelmingly large portion of our ride (the 35 miler) took place on streets with either delineated bike lanes, or the segregated and buffered kind (along Dearborn going through the loop). With groups leaving in waves, there was plenty of space to go at your own pace pretty quickly upon the start of the ride, but not get too spaced out where you didn't feel like you were part of a group of riders out to do a trek. It helped that the weather was nice (mid-70s going up to the low-80s), but in all honesty, I think we would have enjoyed this event even if the weather was bad. With stations set up throughout pretty evenly for restrooms, water and the eventual snack stations - the "chow" portion, if you will - there was ample amount of ride space without pushing people too hard. Active Transportation Alliance- good on you all for putting together such a friendly, comfortable, and visual event showing off a portion of your mission to the rest of the city (well, at least this time- most of the north side). The hard work put forth by the volunteers and coordinators was evident in just how smooth and wonderful the ride and the event was. Oh, and the snacks were great! I look forward to going back to each of the vendors in the near future to enjoy their food again. Any chance you all can make this biannual? Spring ride and early-Autumn ride?

Course is the same as almost all weeknight 5Ks in the city. Start at Soldier and run down the…read morelakeshore trail and loop back. Somehow, because the run was affiliated with the Bears, starting at Soldier, felt appropriate. Well organized event. Event was run in waves to limit the amount of congestion on the course. Descent post party activity, with post race beers. Nice Bears branded tech t-shirt.

This Review is for the New Year's Eve Run & Walk 5K-December 31. 2021=for January 1, 2022~ Yay!…read more 5K Walk and Run for ADULTS ONLY! THE RACE STARTED THIS YEAR AT 9am! (Obviously-there was a short staggering for those more experienced runners)-but from the Mindful Walkers Corral B- it was a short time...after they left! Small Number of People Participating- But still maybe from looking at the bibs only under 600 people. (FYI-Only confirming from Bibs that I witnessed) Finish at The Theater on The Lake...ends with a glass of Champagne (or other adult drink options sponsored by their Sponsors-Tito's Vodka, Corona Beer, etc.) and a Finisher's Medal! Plus the "usual" Bananas, Apples, Gatorade, Water, etc. +They offer small breakfast options for purchase that are reasonable. ALSO-the venue offers outdoor and indoor options for seating to enjoy the lakeside view of Lake Michigan. LOVED THIS 5K/RUN and WALK- Why- (as I think of them not in Chronological Order-sorry!?) 1. They separate the faster more experienced runners from those that are walking "Mindfully!" 2. Great Music all the way through! From Start to Finish! 3. Great location at the Theater on The Lake-Bathrooms, etc. 4. The Course at this point in time allows individuals to see things differently- *BIrd Nests in the Trees (without leaves)/Sculptures/Architecture, etc *The Water Stops! 2x along the way on the RUN *They Announce Each Individual's Name at the end of the Run=STELLAR FYI-It appears that there were only 500-600 Runners=Good Space Time-Especially with Covid-and in the future.. About the Neighborhood- * There are soooo many things I never knew about this neighborhood- Like:-Golf Driving Ranges, Small Restaurants, Serious Gym Areas for People in the Public Parks...many places to walk dogs...AIDS PARK BEING BUILT, access to stadium sitting along the water, among other options. I highly Recommend a Walk in the Neighborhood)...even if you are NOT interested in the race. But there is a beautiful history of Chicago too- -The Lamp Posts -The Building Architecture -The Good Food-that is now Global! Many Things....very mindful for those of us who are NOT COMPETITIVE..but a true arena for ALL of US to be Successful! AFTER THE FINISHING LINE- * Your Name is Announced * You are entitled to a Mimosa, Hard Seltzer, Corona, Tito Bloody Mary and other drinks at the Bar *After Race Treats-Bananas,Apples, Protein Drinks, Bottled Water... *Free Pick-Up From Gear Check ALSO BREAKFAST IF YOU WANT TO STAY AND HANG OUT (you have to pay for the breakfast!)=but under $10.00! FYI-According to the MC-This was an amazing year "weatherwise"-42 degrees-the sun came out and most of the participants were wearing puffy vests, sweatshirts and leggings! WILL DO IT NEXT YEAR IN A HEARTBEAT- From the Pickup (At Lululemon-North Avenue Chicago) to the Finish=STELLAR! It appears to be all about ADULTS who want a chance to run/walk and enjoy this amazing part of our city=Lake Michigan and Chicago views...and positive attitudes! And Local Sponsors are willing to MAKE IT HAPPEN! THANK YOU! -

Took Cardio Tennis classes here Spring 2025. I usually take classes at Humboldt Park but wanted to…read moretry a different time slot. I like that the parking is close to the courts. I love seeing all the pups walking while we are doing tennis early in the morning. This park only has 2 courts so an intimate court. The court has been recently remodeled to include pickleball lines. All in all, no complaints. May check out the pool this summer.

I will never take my kids there again they are so races I have a copy of their schedule for the…read morepool we' was supposed to get in at 2:15 pm until 3 pm but when we got there the white lady told us we cannot get in it was a adult swim and they told us to come back at three and we did when we got back there they had white kids in the pool and then they told us they had adult swim again mind you we already had the schedule and they was looking at us like they was not use to seeing black people the white lady was so rude I will let everyone know how races and dirty they are and to never take your kids there to have a good time because you will be disappointed

Since Yelp changed the title of this listing--which was specifically the NWSI St Patrick's…read moreParade--this review is solely about the parade, and not other programming they may have. I don't think I'd heard of this parade until the last week or so, and it's only about 10 minutes away so we went to check it out. I thought it would be kind of a neighborhood parade + nearby suburbs but there was a sizable presence here. We found parking less than a ten minute walk away on a street in Norwood Park that hardly had any cars parked on it so that worked out well. The parade itself was... lackluster. (I was a bit annoyed at the woman who said they were holding standing space for people who were eventually coming. We found some space a bit further down near the library.) A surprising number of the participating groups were riding in Chicago Trolley buses! I was really kind of surprised about that. This parade has giveaways, but trying to toss from a bus with windows that only open halfway from the bottom up means nothing really gets very far. So then there's a bunch of candy and stuff halfway out in the road, but (as a reasonable safety measure!) they put out metal barricades to keep folks on the sidewalk. So since a bunch of the "floats" weren't actually walking and handing out their giveaways, someone opened the barricade and then there were a bunch of kids out in the roadway trying to catch the candy and beads and everything else that was being tossed out. I wasn't going to let my toddler out on the street and since there were kids in front of us in the street, most of the few folks walking and giving things out stopped coming the two feet back to the sidewalk where we were. It was also really weird that there was a big Teamsters semi taking up 30 feet or so of prime parade viewing space. Like... maybe they should have had a float in the parade if they wanted to participate? (I love that Chicago is a huge union town and the rest of the country would do well to similarly unionize, but it would have been nice not to block so the kids had more sidewalk space from which to watch.) It seems unlikely that it would be the parade review stand, because that would seem unnecessarily large.... Overall, the parade felt a little disorganized, chaotic, and with all the folks in buses or cars, a bit disappointing. I'm a bit shocked that it's been going for 25 years now and they haven't made some improvements. I enjoyed the Forest Park parade quite a bit more. Having said that, I can't say we won't come again depending upon what's happening for toddlers on St. Patrick's weekend. I would probably take the train next time because we can catch it at the station a few blocks away from our home and get out at the Norwood Park station and be at the exact spot we were camping out at today. I did find learn that, apparently, the key is to stand on the east side of Northwest Highway. That side was practically empty!

One of the Abbott Marathon Majors which I ran as part of attaining my 6 Star achievement the…read moreChicago Marathon was a fun run for 26.2 miles. The course of very flat, fast, and getting PR's on this route are very attainable. The marathon expo is large and has everything there. If staying in the downtown area the start line is east to get to. You're basically running through all the neighborhoods. The year I ran it was sunny and cool, and even though there were many spectators cheering us on I felt on many parts of the course were sparse and a bit quiet. Still, it's a fun marathon and a great day. Plus, you get an ice cold real beer at the end! Beer and a medal is a win! It's a terrific race course to attempt if you're a first time marathoner since there are few hills and it's considered one of the easier ones. 50,000 runners on average and it was easy to get in through the lottery at the time. Plus, there are many pop up events and marathon related things to attend around town.

This event has a spectator was very well ran. How was mainly upset they closed areas that had…read moreaccess to parking garages but for a large scale event I will say that the organizers did great and they have this event to a T year after year. Everyone here was happy,supportive and motivational to all of the runners involved! If you are coming here as a spectator I highly recommend learning where the public restrooms are at because this city lacks public restrooms and there are about 100,000 people watching this event on top of the 52,000 people that run this event every year! My thing that I will learn for next year is that I will take the METRA instead of driving. Driving to the city wasn't even that bad it was actually very easy because it was Sunday but it's navigating through all the people. Please download the app too that allows you to track your Runner or runners. The one thing that bothered me a lot was seeing a good variety of spectators run on the path when runners are in the middle of the race. People need to be a bit respectful. Thankfully nothing interfered with the race astronomically. Overall, i wouldn't mind coming back next year! I just wouldn't bring lawn chairs but I will stack up on drinks and snacks prior.