CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) — Communities across Champaign, Urbana and Savoy are preparing to welcome thousands of runners and visitors for the 2026 Christie Clinic Illinois Race Weekend, set for April 23 through 25.
Local leaders say the annual event not only brings community pride but also provides a significant economic boost, as participants and spectators fill hotels, dine at restaurants and support local businesses. Since its inception, the race weekend has also generated nearly $2 million in donations for local charities.
Organizers are encouraging residents to get involved by cheering on runners or volunteering during the three-day event, which features multiple races and activities throughout the area.
The full marathon returns this year, with runners traveling through Urbana, Champaign and Savoy before finishing inside Gies Memorial Stadium on the University of Illinois campus.
With the influx of visitors, officials are warning residents to expect changes to normal routines. Road closures and adjustments to bus routes are planned throughout the weekend to ensure safety for runners and spectators.
Community partners, including local municipalities, the University of Illinois and transit officials, say they have worked together to minimize disruptions while maintaining a safe environment.
Residents are encouraged to review race routes, closure times and weekend event schedules ahead of the event. Additional information, including maps and volunteer opportunities, is available on the Illinois Race Weekend website.
