Chicago Santa Speedo Run Northalsted 2026

Chicago Santa Speedo Run 2026

Chicago Santa Speedo Run returns to Northalsted on December 5, 2026, bringing runners in Speedos and Christmas costumes to the city's gay neighborhood. Organized in association with Center on Halsted and Sidetrack, the annual one-mile charity run raises money for Center on Halsted's community programs.

Event dates: Saturday, December 5, 2026

Key events:

• 12pm: Registration and check-in at Sidetrack on North Halsted Street

• 2pm: One-mile Santa Speedo Run through Lakeview East, with participants dressed in Speedos, bikinis, Santa hats and other holiday costumes

• 2:30pm: Awards ceremony, entertainment and door prizes

• 4pm to 8pm: Official afterparty at Sidetrack, with celebrations continuing into the evening

What to wear: Participants are encouraged to wear Speedos or bikinis with Santa hats. Christmas costumes are also welcome, including elves, reindeer and snowmen.

Charity fundraising: Money raised by participants goes directly to Center on Halsted, supporting its LGBTQ+ community programs. Fundraising incentive prizes are covered by sponsors.

Gay nightlife: Sidetrack is one of Northalsted's established gay bars and serves as the main meeting point for the event. The surrounding neighborhood has additional gay bars for drinks after the run.

Where to stay: Northalsted and Lakeview East are convenient areas for the run and Chicago's gay nightlife. Hotel Zachary is mentioned as a nearby accommodation option. The Peninsula Chicago, Thompson Chicago and Kimpton Gray Hotel are alternatives closer to downtown.