Chicago Grit returns to Fulton Market with pro racing and street festival

One of Chicago's fastest and most exciting summer sporting events is rolling back into the city as Chicago Grit returns July 17-26, bringing 10 consecutive days of high-speed criterium racing to communities across the Chicago area before culminating with the Fulton Market Grand Prix on Sunday, July 26. The Fulton Market race serves as the thrilling finale to the series, transforming one of Chicago's trendiest neighborhoods into a high-speed racecourse for some of North America's top cyclists. 

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The Fulton Market Grand Prix is part of the American Criterium Cup, one of the nation's premier professional cycling series, attracting elite men's and women's teams from across North America. Unlike traditional road races, criteriums are contested on short, closed-loop courses where riders complete dozens of laps at speeds approaching 30 mph. Tight corners, strategic attacks and thrilling sprint finishes create nonstop action for spectators.

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The day begins with amateur and masters races before building to the featured professional competitions later in the afternoon. The schedule also includes the popular Loop Da Loop 5K, a community ride, Divvy Bike Races and other family-friendly activities, creating an all-day street festival in the heart of Fulton Market. 

Surrounded by Fulton Market's acclaimed restaurants, breweries and outdoor patios, the event offers plenty to do between races. Whether you're a cycling enthusiast or simply looking for a unique summer outing, Chicago Grit combines world-class competition with one of the city's most vibrant neighborhoods.

What to know before you go

• Chicago Grit series: July 17-26

• Fulton Market Grand Prix (Series Finale): Sunday, July 26

• Where: Fulton Market District, centered around West Fulton Market and North Morgan Street

• Admission: Free for spectators

• Getting there: The CTA Morgan station on the Green and Pink Lines is just steps from the course. Organizers encourage visitors to take public transit, bike or walk, as street closures will be in effect throughout race day.

For the complete schedule, course maps and race information, visit the official Chicago Grit website.

Sources

• Official Chicago Grit schedule: https://chicago-grit.com/schedule/
• Official race day schedule: https://chicago-grit.com/day-10/
• Block Club Chicago: https://blockclubchicago.org/2024/06/20/professional-cycling-race-chicago-grit-coming-to-fulton-market/
• Time Out Chicago: https://www.timeout.com/chicago/things-to-do/fulton-market-grand-prix