Chambana Sun

The Cities of Champaign and Urbana, the Village of Savoy, the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, the Champaign-Urbana Mass Transit District, and many community partners are preparing to host thousands of participants and fans for the 2025 Christie Clinic Illinois Race Weekend from April 24 to 26. The event is a significant point of pride for the community and boosts the local economy by attracting visitors who stay in local hotels, dine at restaurants, and support small businesses. Since its inception, the race weekend has also contributed nearly $2 million to local charities. Residents are encouraged to support the event by cheering on the runners and volunteering to ensure a successful experience for all involved.

The Illinois Race Weekend coincides with Ebertfest in Downtown Champaign, which is expected to bring many out-of-town visitors. This may affect regular weekend routines for residents and businesses through road closures and temporary changes to bus routes. Organizers of both events are collaborating with local officials to minimize disruptions while ensuring the safety of attendees. Race organizers have provided detailed information on navigating the area during the event, including road closure updates, through IllinoisMarathon.com.

The full marathon, featuring a course introduced in 2024, will be held again, with runners passing through Urbana, Champaign, and Savoy before finishing at Memorial Stadium on the U. of I. campus. Local residents, particularly those along Prospect Avenue south of Armory Avenue and in Savoy, should familiarize themselves with the marathon route changes.

Local agencies will provide additional details about road closures and bus route alterations ahead of the race weekend.