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DeKalb Corn Classic

Sun, Sep 27, 2026, 8:15 AM CDT

Location
DeKalb, IL
PO Box 327, 60115
Type
RUN

Sign up and verify details on the organizer’s official page.

At a glance

Run through DeKalb's historic areas and NIU campus, enjoying live music and a lively post-race celebration.

  • Fun
  • Scenic

Great for: casual, fun-first runners

The DeKalb Corn Classic 10K invites runners to explore the heart of DeKalb, Illinois. This course begins and ends downtown, guiding you through charming historical neighborhoods, alongside the Kishwaukee River, and across the Northern Illinois University campus, including Huskie Stadium. Enjoy lively on-course entertainment from the Huskie Marching Band, NIU Jazz Band, and Steelband. Conclude your run at Van Buer Plaza with a festive post-race celebration, marking the 45th anniversary of this community favorite.

What to expect

  • Run a course that winds through historical neighborhoods and along the Kishwaukee River.
  • Experience the energy of live music from the Huskie Marching Band and other ensembles.
  • Celebrate your finish in Van Buer Plaza with a post-race gathering.

Standout details

  • On-course entertainment with live bands
  • Route through historical neighborhoods
  • Passes through NIU campus and stadium
  • Post-race celebration in Van Buer Plaza

Auto-drafted from the public listing — confirm details on the official event page before signing up.

Distances & registration

2 options

Registration for all distances is through the official signup link above.

  • 5K

    Sun, Sep 27, 8:30 AM CDT · From $30.00

    Opens Mar 31, 2026, 8:00 PM CDT · Closes Jul 29, 2026, 7:59 PM CDT

  • 10K

    Sun, Sep 27, 8:15 AM CDT · From $40.00

    Opens Mar 31, 2026, 8:00 PM CDT · Closes Jul 29, 2026, 7:59 PM CDT

Vibe Check

Easygoing

Based on terrain, weather, and distance data.

The course

From the organizer

DeKalb Corn Classic 10K & 5K

We are looking forward to September 27, 2026!

​Beginning and ending in Downtown DeKalb, the route will take runners through historical neighborhoods, along the Kishwaukee River via Prairie Park, through NIU's campus and Huskie Stadium and ending in Van Buer Plaza with a Post Race Celebration! On Course Entertainment includes the Huskie Marching Band, NIU Jazz Band, and Steelband!

Our roots run strong and we look forward to gathering for the 46th DeKalb Corn Classic!

Running Forward Together – Always . #DeKalbCornClassic #RunForwardTogether

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