The Course
The Grove Express 5K starts at Main and Grove Streets in downtown Downers Grove and winds its way through the heart of the Village on a USA Track and Field certified course.
Getting There
Grove Express encourages 5K participants to walk, bike or ride share to the event as parking will be in high demand.
Parking
Designated parking areas include the Commuter Lots North and South of the BNSF tracks, the Library Parking Lot, and the Parking Deck. On-street parking is also available outside the race course.
Race Day Road Closures*
Streets along the race course will begin closing as early as 6:15 am.
Main Street will be closed between the tracks and 55th Street no later than 7:00 am.
The BNSF Railroad crossings at Washington, Main and Forest will close to vehicular traffic no later than 7:00 am. The railroad crossing at Maple Ave. will remain open throughout the race.
The Parking Deck will remain open until 8:00 am. Access to the Parking Deck will be via Washington Street ONLY. Between 7:00 am and 8:00 am, all access to the Washington Street Parking Deck entrance will be via westbound Maple Avenue and northbound Washington Street ONLY.
Please plan your arrival times and parking locations accordingly.
The Grove Express Foundation proudly hosts the annual Grove Express 5K Run/Walk on Thanksgiving morning. This cherished event raises funds to support education and youth programs that directly benefit Elementary School District 58 and Community District 99 high schools, including Downers Grove North and Downers Grove South.
In 2021, three local organizations came together to preserve and continue the tradition of this beloved Thanksgiving Day event. Representatives from The Education Foundation of Downers Grove District 58, the Rotary Club of Downers Grove, and the Roadrunners Soccer Club united to create the Grove Express Foundation, now an official 501(c)(3) organization.
Dedicated to the Downers Grove community, the foundation’s mission is to invest in education, youth initiatives, and scholarships, ensuring a lasting positive impact.