Streets to Close for 2026 Shamrock Shuffle in Chicago

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The 45th annual Bank of America Shamrock Shuffle, Chicago's popular St. Patrick's Day 8k run and 2-mile walk, is set to take place on March 22, 2026. Several downtown streets will be closed for the event, with some closures starting as early as Monday, March 18 and lasting until Wednesday, March 25. The majority of street closures will be in effect from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on race day, March 22.

Why it matters

The Shamrock Shuffle is a beloved Chicago tradition that draws thousands of runners and spectators to the city's downtown area each year. The extensive street closures required for the race can cause significant traffic disruptions, so it's important for residents and visitors to be aware of the impacted areas and plan their commutes accordingly.

The details

The Shamrock Shuffle course roughly follows the outline of a shamrock, requiring the closure of numerous downtown streets. Some closures, like on Balbo Drive and in Grant Park, will start before race day and last longer than the main race day closures. On race day, streets including Columbus Drive, Grand Avenue, State Street, Wacker Drive, and Michigan Avenue will be closed from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Vehicles left parked on the impacted streets after 1 a.m. on Sunday will be ticketed and towed.

• Balbo Drive from Columbus Drive to DuSable Lake Shore Drive closed on Monday, March 18 and will remain closed until Wednesday, March 25.
• Grant Park will be closed to vehicle traffic starting at 6 a.m. on Saturday, March 21 through 2 p.m. on Sunday, March 22.
• A no parking order starts at 1 a.m. on Sunday, March 22 on the streets impacted by the race.
• Street closures will start at 7:30 a.m. and continue until 11:30 a.m. on Sunday, March 22.

What’s next

Race officials distributed fliers along the course on Sunday, March 15 to inform the community about the event a week in advance.