Sign up for 14th annual Oktoberfast 5K Run Sept. 7 in Itasca

Get into the Oktoberfest spirit by signing up for the Itasca Runners Club’s 14th annual Oktoberfast 5K Run on Saturday, Sept. 7.

If running isn't your thing, your cheers and support along the route are always welcomed. Registration is open through race day, so you can still join in the excitement.

The race starts at 9 a.m. on West Grove Street. The chip-timed race follows a fast and scenic neighborhood route through Itasca, with a downhill finish into Wesley G. Usher Memorial Park at 203 S. Walnut St. for a post-race party with music, food, drinks, and awards.

Watch for road closures that will be in effect on the south side of town during the event. A map of the race route can be found on the event website, itascaoktoberfast5k.org, as well as on the village's website.

The fee by Aug. 31 is $38.10 or $42.34 from Sept. 1-7.

The Oktoberfast 5K is presented by the Itasca Runners Club which is a nonprofit organization and a member of Road Runners of America, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization.

Proceeds from the Itasca OktoberFast 5K benefits local organizations that are dedicated to providing support to families and individuals in need by providing food, emergency assistance, mentoring, or financial assistance to promote healthy, active, and productive lifestyles.

The 5K is supported by Xtra Mile Running. Early race-packet pickup is available from their store in Schaumburg from noon to 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 5, and noon to 6 p.m. Friday, Sept. 6. Runners will receive 10% off any purchase during packet pickup. Race-day packet pickup is available from 7 to 8:30 a.m.

If you have any questions about this race, email the race director at itasca5k@gmail.com.

Not running? There are plenty of options to volunteer before, during, or after the race. For details, email itasca5k@gmail.com or call Joe at (847) 445-9743.