USATF-Certified Course
A flat, fast, scenic ~3.1-mile route (Certification Code: IL-08108-JW). Great for first-timers and seasoned runners alike.
6,200+
Runners & Fans
12th Annual · Thanksgiving Morning · Downers Grove, IL
Bonfield Express 5KRun for a Scholar’s Future
Lace up for a fun, family-friendly run through the streets and wooded paths of downtown Downers Grove. Every finisher helps award scholarships to the next generation of community leaders.
- USATF-Certified Course
- Chip Timing
- Free Tech T-Shirt
- Dogs & Strollers Welcome
Start Time
8:30 am
Thanksgiving Day
Countdown to Race Day
November 26 · 8:30 am
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About the Race
A Thanksgiving Tradition for the Whole Family
The 5K starts at Main & Grove Streets in downtown Downers Grove, loops through the charming downtown area, winds through the beautiful wooded neighborhood of Denburn Woods, and finishes back downtown on Curtiss Street.
Chip Timing & Prizes
Every packet includes chip timing and a free tech shirt (first 5,500). Gift-card prizes go to the top 3 overall male & female finishers.
Funds Scholarships
100% of the proceeds help award scholarships to high school seniors in Downers Grove, Hinsdale, Westmont & Lisle.
Why It Matters
More Than a Race — a Scholarship Engine
Since 2004, the Bonfield Express Foundation has distributed over $200,000 in scholarships to high school seniors across Community High School District 99, Hinsdale's District 86, Westmont's District 201, and Lisle's District 202.
More than 6,200 runners, volunteers, and fans helped make recent editions a success. Your registration, donation, and sponsorship directly fund a student’s dream of college.
- Generous individual & family registration rates
- Convenient packet pickup at 3 downtown locations
- Welcome to runners of all ages & levels
- Charitable, family-friendly Thanksgiving morning
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is the race on Thanksgiving Day?
Yes! The Bonfield Express 5K runs on the morning of Thanksgiving in downtown Downers Grove, starting at 8:30 am.
Is the course beginner friendly?
Absolutely. It is an USATF-certified, flat, ~3.1-mile route suitable for runners of all levels. Walking is welcome — just start behind the runners.
What are the registration rates?
Early individual registration is just $25 and families up to $85; on-site rates are a bit higher. See the Registration page for full details.
Support the Mission
Support Our Scholarships
Give back to students in our community. Every donation helps keep college within reach for a graduating senior. Sponsor the race, fund a scholarship, or simply say “thank you.”