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Chicago Santa Speedo Run
Northalsted 2026

Tis the season to jingle your bells and don your gay apparel!

  • Event Dates

    From: Saturday, December 5, 2026
    To: Saturday, December 5, 2026

  • Key Highlights

    • Guys in Speedos
    • Elves in Santa hats
    • Nutcrackers in hats
    • Sexiest Guys in Speedos
    • Hottest Guys in Speedos
    • Polar Bears our fluffy friends
    • Sugarplum Fairies you know the one

Chicago Santa Speedo Run Northalsted 2026

Hundreds of runners strip down to swimwear and Christmas costumes for Chicago’s Santa Speedo Run, a one-mile dash through Northalsted raising money for Center on Halsted.

Chicago Santa Speedo Run – The Event

  • Next Event: Saturday 5th December 2026.
  • The 2026 run celebrates its 15th anniversary.
  • Check-in opens at Sidetrack at 12pm.
  • The one-mile run through Northalsted starts at 2pm.
  • Awards, entertainment and prizes follow from 2.30pm.
  • The official after-party runs from 4pm-8pm.
  • Participants must be 21+.
  • Speedos are encouraged but not compulsory; swimwear, onesies and Christmas costumes are welcome.
  • The event has raised over $1 million for Center on Halsted since 2011.
  • The 2025 edition raised a record $189,000.
  • Check out the 10 best hotels in Chicago.

Santa Speedo Run 2026 Schedule

Time Event
12pm Arrival & Check-in – Sidetrack
2pm One-Mile Santa Speedo Run – Northalsted
2.30pm Awards, Entertainment & Prizes – Sidetrack
4pm-8pm Official After-Party – Sidetrack

The Run

  • The afternoon starts at Sidetrack, 3349 N Halsted Street, before runners head out for a one-mile loop through Northalsted.
  • This is a social charity run rather than a competitive race. Run it, walk it or concentrate on the outfit.
  • After returning to Sidetrack, the afternoon continues with awards and entertainment before the official after-party from 4pm-8pm.

What to Wear

  • Speedos and Santa hats are the classic combination, but swimwear isn’t compulsory.
  • Expect briefs, swimsuits, elves, reindeer, Santa costumes, onesies and plenty of creative Christmas looks.
  • Chicago in December can be bitterly cold. Bring warm clothes for before and immediately after the run and wear proper shoes for the route.

Center on Halsted

  • The run benefits Center on Halsted, Chicago’s major LGBTQ+ community centre.
  • Money raised supports programmes and services for LGBTQ+ people across Chicagoland.
  • Since launching in 2011, Santa Speedo Run Northalsted has raised over $1 million, with the 2025 edition setting a new annual fundraising record.

Registration

  • Early-bird individual registration for 2026 is $40.
  • Registration includes event entry, the one-mile run, an official T-shirt and a Santa Sack for the first 700 registered participants.
  • Fundraising rewards begin at $250, with further incentives for higher totals.
  • Participants must be 21+ and bring valid physical ID.
  • Register or donate through the official Santa Speedo Run page.

The Venue

  • Sidetrack – 3349 N Halsted Street.
  • Sidetrack is one of Chicago’s largest gay venues, occupying several connected indoor and outdoor spaces in the centre of Northalsted.
  • The location works particularly well for Santa Speedo Run: runners finish surrounded by gay bars, restaurants and clubs, so there is no need to move across the city for the after-party.

Where to Stay

Stay in Lakeview close to Northalsted rather than Downtown. You’ll be able to walk to Sidetrack, the run and most of the neighbourhood’s gay nightlife.

  • Best Western Plus Hawthorne Terrace Hotel – Best overall location. Boutique-style hotel on North Broadway, a short walk from Sidetrack, Hydrate and the centre of Northalsted.
  • Hotel Zachary Chicago – Best upscale option. Stylish hotel opposite Wrigley Field with restaurants and bars nearby and Northalsted within walking distance.
  • City Suites Hotel – Best for transport. Art Deco-style hotel beside Belmont station, convenient for Northalsted and direct connections into Downtown Chicago.
  • Majestic Hotel – Best for a quieter stay. Boutique hotel in a residential section of Lakeview, within walking distance of the lakefront and Northalsted nightlife.

Gay Chicago – After the Run

You finish in the middle of Northalsted, so keep the rest of Saturday around Halsted Street and Lakeview.

  • Sidetrack – 3349 N Halsted Street. Stay after the official party for Saturday night across its multiple bars, video rooms and dance spaces.
  • Roscoe’s Tavern – 3356 N Halsted Street. Directly opposite Sidetrack with DJs, drag, food and a large patio.
  • Hydrate Nightclub – 3458 N Halsted Street. Late-night gay club with drag, guest DJs and dancing into Sunday morning.
  • Cell Block – 3702 N Halsted Street. Long-running leather and fetish bar with kink, pup and themed events.
  • The North End – 3733 N Halsted Street. Relaxed gay sports bar with pool, darts and televised sports.
  • Charlie’s Chicago – 3726 N Broadway. Gay country-western bar that shifts into late-night dancing at weekends.

Other Gay Events in Chicago

  • Chicago Pride – June. One of America’s biggest Pride celebrations with Pride Fest, the parade and major circuit parties.
  • International Mr. Leather – May. International leather and fetish gathering held over Memorial Day Weekend.
  • Northalsted Market Days – August. Huge two-day street festival with live stages, DJs and packed gay bars throughout Northalsted.
  • Chicago Gay Halloween – October. Halloween celebrations culminating in the Haunted Halsted parade and costume contest.
  • Chicago Gay New Year – December. New Year’s Eve brings special parties, DJs and celebrations to Northalsted and clubs across Chicago.

Gay Map of Chicago

The area in Chicago with the most gay bars is Boys town offering over 20 bar, we have chosen hotels close to this area that have good revues on bookings.

Address: 108 E Superior St, Chicago, IL 60611

  • Luxury hotel right off the Magnificent Mile in Chicago.
  • Exceptional service and high-end amenities throughout.
  • Rooms are spacious for downtown Chicago, with premium comforts.
  • Excellent spa, indoor pool and fine dining on-site.
  • Top choice for indulgence in Chicago.
  • Website

Address: 21 E Bellevue Pl, Chicago,

  • Boutique luxury hotel in Chicago’s Loop with Art Deco flair.
  • Stylish rooms with modern amenities and generous bathrooms.
  • Central location near business districts and cultural sites.
  • On-site restaurant and rooftop bar elevate the experience.
  • Ideal for travellers seeking sophistication and convenience.
  • Website

Address:

  • Luxury boutique hotel in the heart of Chicago’s Loop.
  • Stylish interiors combining historic architecture and modern design.
  • Rooms are well-appointed and service is highly rated.
  • Fantastic location for sightseeing, dining and transit.
  • Solid choice for comfort and style.
  • Website

Address: 10 S Wabash Ave, Chicago, 

  • Boutique luxury hotel in the heart of the Loop.
  • Historic character blended with modern comfort.
  • Spacious, stylish rooms with premium touches.
  • Warm, attentive service throughout the stay.
  • Ideal base for exploring downtown Chicago.
  • Website

Address: 933 West Belmont Avenue Chicago

  • Boutique hotel located in Lakeview/Boystown near nightlife.
  • Modern rooms with premium bedding, mini-fridge and free WiFi.
  • Friendly, helpful staff and a welcoming atmosphere.
  • Excellent location for dining, drinks and local culture.
  • Great value for travellers seeking comfort and centrality in Chicago.
  • Website

Address: 3434 North Broadway Chicago

  • Well-located hotel in Chicago’s River near major attractions.
  • Friendly service, clean rooms and good value for money.
  • Comfortable amenities including rooftop deck/pool add appeal.
  • Accessible to transit and dining—ideal for both business and leisure.
  • Reliable choice for a convenient downtown stay.
  • Website

Address: 528 West Brompton Avenue Chicago

  • Boutique hotel in Lakeview East near Wrigley Field.
  • Fresh, comfortable rooms with modern touches.
  • Warm lobby with a relaxed, welcoming feel.
  • Close to the lakefront and neighbourhood dining.
  • Good value stay in a charming Chicago location.
  • Website

Address: 3439 North Halsted Street Chicago

  • Gay bar in Boystown with craft beer, bourbon and free arcade games.
  • Strong social atmosphere with mixed local and visiting crowd.
  • Casual yet energetic—starts early and runs late.
  • Great choice for drinks, games and hangout rather than full clubbing.
  • Reliable spot in Chicago’s gay nightlife scene for a fun evening out.
  • Open: Daily 2pm-2am Friday & Saturday 2pm-3am
  • Website

Address: 3359 North Halsted Street Chicago

  • Gay bar-club in Boystown with large dance floor and bold décor.
  • Craft beers, cocktails and lively themed nights.
  • International gay crowd, friendly staff and social vibe.
  • Spacious layout and standout design under cloud-style ceiling.
  • Strong choice for a fun, energetic gay night out in Chicago.
  • Open: Tuesday–Thursday 5pm–2am, Friday 4pm–2am
  • Saturday 3pm–3am, Sunday 1pm–2am
  • Facebook

Address: 3452 North Halsted Street Chicago

  • Gay cocktail lounge in Boystown.
  • Stylish space with a relaxed mood.
  • Excellent crafted drinks and service.
  • Great for conversation and social time.
  • Strong pick for quality gay nights out.
  • Open: Sunday–Thursday 6pm–2am,
  • Friday 5pm–4am Saturday 5pm–5am
  • Facebook

Address: 3729 North Halsted Street Chicago

  • Gay bar in Boystown with warm neighbourhood energy.
  • Karaoke nights and great drink specials.
  • Fun mix of locals and visitors.
  • Lively, social atmosphere into the night.
  • Great spot for a relaxed, friendly gay evening out.
  • Open: Monday–Friday 3pm–2am Saturday 12pm-3am
  • Sunday 12pm–2am
  • Instagram

Address: 3325 North Broadway Street Chicago

  • lesbian bar with strong community roots in Chicago’s Boystown.
  • Welcoming vibe, friendly staff and late-night hours.
  • Karaoke/video-bar entertainment and casual drinks.
  • Ideal for socialising rather than intense clubbing.
  • Reliable choice for a comfortable, fun gay night out.
  • Open: Monday–Friday 4pm–4am, Saturday 12pm–3am
  • Sunday 12pm–2am
  • Website

Address:

  • Gay bar with western-country theme in Boystown.
  • Drag shows, karaoke and line dancing drive the vibe.
  • Lively, social crowd and strong late-night energy.
  • Located in Chicago’s LGBTQ+ hub for easy nightlife access.
  • Great for a fun, high-energy gay night out.
  • Open: Daily 3pm–4am, Saturday 3pm–5am
  • Website

Address:

  • Gay bar in Boystown with a relaxed sports atmosphere.
  • Friendly mix of locals and visitors.
  • Pool tables, darts and plenty of screens.
  • Casual setting with long opening hours.
  • Ideal spot for social drinks in the neighbourhood.
  • Open: Daily 11am–2am, Saturday 11am–3am, Sunday 11am–2am
  • Facebook

Address: 3320 North Halsted Street Chicago

  • Gay bar with vibrant themed nights and strong music.
  • Vintage-inspired décor and a lively, diverse crowd.
  • Great drink specials kick off the evening.
  • Popular weekend destination in the gay district.
  • Excellent choice for party-focused nights out.
  • Open: Daily 8pm–2am, Sunday: 2pm–2am
  • Facebook

Address: 3339 N Halsted St, Chicago

  • Lively LGBTQ+ venue known for drag shows and themed events.
  • Multiple bar areas and a dedicated dance zone for party energy.
  • Located on North Halsted Street, central to Chicago’s queer nightlife.
  • Friendly, inclusive crowd and strong nightlife appeal.
  • Excellent for a bold night out with early start and long hours.
  • Open: Monday–Wednesday 5 pm–close,
  • Thursday & Friday 5 pm–2 am. Saturday 3 pm–3 am.
  • Sunday 3 pm–close.
  • Facebook

Address:

  • Long-running male dancer venue in Chicago’s main gay district.
  • Nightly shows attract regulars and out-of-towners alike.
  • Music leans upbeat with a friendly, mixed-age crowd.
  • Front bar feels intimate, stages add a lively contrast.
  • Still a key stop on the Northalsted nightlife circuit.
  • Open: Daily 6pm-2am, 6pm-3am Fri & Sat
  • Website

Address: 3702 North Halsted Street Chicago

  • Long-running leather venue in Northalsted.
  • Front section is relaxed with games and conversation.
  • Back space caters to the leather crowd late into the night.
  • Music and drinks are straightforward and unfussy.
  • Still an anchor of Chicago’s gay leather scene.
  • Open: Daily 1pm-2am, Saturday 12pm-3am, Sunday 12pm-2am
  • Instagram

Address: 3458 North Halsted Street Chicago

  • High-energy gay nightclub in Chicago’s Northalsted district.
  • Known for late nights, packed floors and busy weekends.
  • Drag shows and guest DJs drive the programme.
  • Inclusive crowd, mostly male but mixed.
  • Still one of the biggest late-night players in the area.
  • Open: Monday 8pm-4am, Thursday 8pm-4am
    Friday 6:30pm-4am, Saturday 6:30pm-5am
    Sunday 2pm-4am, (Tuesday Wednesday Closed)
  • Facebook

Address: 3356 North Halsted Street Chicago

  • Gay bar known for drag shows and late dancing.
  • Early evenings feel relaxed before the crowds build.
  • Weekends are lively with DJs and themed nights.
  • Popular with both locals and travellers.
  • Still going strong in the Northalsted strip.
  • Open: Monday to Thursday 5pm-2am
  • Friday 5pm-2/3am, Saturday 2pm-3am
  • Website

Address:

  • Sidetrack is a landmark gay venue in Northalsted.
  • Famous for frozen cocktails and big video screens.
  • Drag shows and themed nights shape the weekly programme.
  • Spacious layout with indoor zones and a rooftop.
  • Weekends grow loud, colourful and fun.
  • Open: Monday–Friday 3pm-2am, Saturday 1pm-3am,
  • Sunday 12pm-2am
  • Facebook

Address:

  • Wang’s is a cosy cocktail lounge in Lakeview.
  • The room is dim, plush and intimate.
  • Signature cocktails anchor the menu.
  • A calm start before the louder venues nearby.
  • A gay bar with an elegant, low-key mood.
  • Open: Monday–Thursday 4pm-11pm, Friday–Saturday 4pm-12am
  • Sunday 4pm-11pm

Recommended Hotels in Chicago By Booking

Book with confidence. Get the best Prices from our partner Booking.com
We have chosen hotels in Chicago that keep you close to all the shops, restaurants & bars

The Peninsula Chicago
5 Star, Luxury

The Peninsula Chicago
Booking.com
  • 5 Star, Asian-Inspired Spa
  • A short walk to the gay bars
  • Spacious luxury, city views
  • Luxurious Magnificent Mile location, Asian-inspired spa, award-winning dining, & city-view rooms.

The Silversmith Hotel
4 Star, Readers Choice

Booking.com
  • 4 Star, Theater District Proximity
  • A short taxi ride to the gay bars
  • Contemporary design, refrigerator
  • Ideal for theater & financial district visits, contemporary rooms, & close to major attractions.

Gray Hotel Chicago
4 Star, Great Value

Kimpton Gray Hotel Chicago, an IHG Hotel
Booking.com
  • 4 Star, Rooftop Latin Cuisine
  • A short taxi ride to the gay bars
  • iPod dock, luxury bath
  • Stay for the rooftop views, Latin-inspired cocktails, & rooms with iPod docks & luxury baths.

Thompson Chicago
4 Star, Location

Booking.com
  • 4 Star, Steps from Michigan Avenue
  • A short walk to the gay bars
  • Modern guest room, mini bar
  • Perfect for Michigan Avenue shopping & dining, modern rooms with minibars, in a boutique setting.

Video Of Gay Guide to Chicago

Heading to Chicago? Check out The Gaycation Travel Show Guide.

Hyatt Chicago

Top Gay Neighbourhoods in Chicago

Chicago, affectionately known as the “Windy City,” is a must-visit destination for LGBTQ+ travellers seeking a vibrant, welcoming, and diverse experience. The city is home to Northalsted (formerly Boystown), one of the first officially recognized gay villages in the United States. Remember, Chicago has an efficient public transit system, so you’ll have easy access to all the city offers no matter where you stay.

Northalsted | The Gay Village

Northalsted Chicago
Photo: Chicago’s Northalsted has a bar for all types and tastes.
  • Located in the Lakeview East neighbourhood of Chicago, 5 miles north of downtown Chicago, or what locals refer to as “The Loop”.
  • Northalsted is a hub for LGBTQ+ life and culture in Chicago, hosting Market Days and Chicago Pride.
  • Easy to get to from downtown via public transit, 30 minutes by the CTA “L” train’s Red or Brown lines.
  • Discover the best things to see and do in Chicago

The Loop

The Loop Chicago

The heart of Chicago’s downtown and home to some of its most iconic landmarks with great hotels.

Magnificent Mile

Magnificent Mile Chicago
Home to high-end hotels, shops & restaurants, the place for those who want to be in the middle of the action.

River North

River North Chicago

A great place to stay if you’re a foodie or a fan of the arts, and close to the city’s best shopping.

Andersonville

Andersonville Chicago
Located to the north of Lakeview,filled with unique, locally-owned businesses and a quirky atmosphere.

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