According to Mother Nature, spring is on the way. According to local weather reports, Mother Nature isn’t really known for punctuality. If you’re as sick of being cooped up as we are, stop fretting over the present and look to these future events for inspiration to get off the couch. Now, how ’bout a few laps around the living room in preparation?
RUNNING
Wacky 5K Run
‘Hood: West Loop
– Kick off the season with a charity run that ends with an all-you-can-eat buffet of healthy — and not-so-healthy — snack foods.
When: 10 a.m. March 1
Where: Start at Journeymen Plumber’s Hall, 1340 W. Washington Blvd.
Cost: $30
Register: 773-868-3010 or chicagoevents.com
St. Paddy’s 5K Run/Walk
‘Hood: Lincoln Park
– Creative green attire is the dress code for this annual lakefront jaunt that ends with a group toast to St. Pat at The Trinity Bar (2721 N. Halsted St.).
When: 9 a.m. March 15
Where: Start near Diversey Harbor, 2800 N. Lake Shore Drive
Cost: $25 before March 1; $30 after
Register: 773-868-3010 or chicagoevents.com
Soldier Field 10 Mile
‘Hood: Museum campus and lakefront
– Fleet Feet’s annual race ends on the 50-yard line inside the stadium, where a JumboTron screens your masterful finish to cheering family and friends.
When: 7:30 a.m. May 23
Where: Start on the east lawn of Soldier Field, 1410 S. Museum Campus Drive
Cost: $50 before May 18; $65 May 18-22
Register: soldierfield10.com
CYCLING
Chicago Cycling Club’s Annual Champagne Ride
‘Hood: Lakefront and North Shore
– The cycling enthusiasts’ group kicks off its riding season with a leisurely 30-mile tour to the Plaza del Lago shopping center in Wilmette (1515 Sheridan Rd.) that ends with an alfresco bubbly toast.
When: 8:30 a.m. April 5
Where: Start at the Waveland Clock Tower, 3700 N. Lake Shore Drive
Cost: Free
Register: Not required; call 773-509-8093 for information
Bike the Drive
‘Hood: Along Lake Shore Drive, from 57th Street to Bryn Mawr Avenue
– This year’s non-competitive 15- or 30-mile ride promises fewer potholes and a lot more eats at the post-ride party in Grant Park: all-you-can-eat pancakes.
When: 5:30 a.m. May 24
Where: Start at Columbus Drive and Jackson Boulevard in Grant Park
Cost: $35-$50. Get a $4 discount through Feb. 22; $2 off through April 5
Register: bikethedrive.org
Bobby’s Bike Hike: Bike Obama Tour
‘Hood: Hyde Park
– A leisurely 16-mile ride through President Obama’s former stomping grounds stops for food at one of his favorite neighborhood spots, Valois (1518 E. 53rd St.).
When: Tours start May 2
Where: Start at Bobby’s Bike Hike Kiosk, 465 N. McClurg Ct.
Cost: $35-$45
Register: Not required; more info at bobbysbikehike.com
EXTREME
Chicago Polar Plunge
‘Hood: Lincoln Park
– Think you know cold? Test your endurance by jumping into the frigid waters of Lake Michigan, then warm up in a heated tent with drinks from a cash bar.
When: 9:30 a.m. March 1
Where: North Avenue Beach, 1600 N. Lake Shore Drive
Price: $100 pledge minimum to benefit Special Olympics Chicago
Register: 312-527-3743, chicagopolarplunge.org
Climb Chicago
‘Hood: West Loop
– Give your gams a grueling workout with a 45-floor climb in one, two, three or all four of the towers during this benefit climb for the American Lung Association of Illinois – Greater Chicago.
When: 6:45 a.m. March 8
Where: Presidential Towers, 555 W. Madison St.
Price: $100-$125
Register: climbala.org
Bootcamp Fitness
‘Hood: Lincoln Park
– Classic calisthenics like sit-ups, push-ups and pull-ups highlight a 36-session, outdoor fitness class that meets three times a week. Talk about sweatin’ to the oldies.
When: Sessions start monthly. Next up: March 9Where: Cannon Drive between Fullerton and Diversey Parkways
Price: $250 Register: chicagosocial.com
