The Ugly Sweater Run Chicago was on Saturday, November 29 at 11am. There were some problems with getting the course ready on time or something, so the race started about 5 minutes late. They released groups every few minutes to help cut back on congestion on the course, but unfortunately, the course was rough and had congestion regardless. Right off the bat there was a crazy bottle neck that made for some very slow walking to get through. There was only about a mile or so on the actual lakefront path (last year was mostly on there), but let's just say this year's course was not ideal. We also had to trample through a lot of mud. However, this race is a fun run and isn't timed, and I still enjoyed myself regardless of the course... it was great to see so many great costumes and hideous sweaters (some were even on dogs - - loved it!) ;)

Enjoyed:
+ swag included an Ugly Sweater drawstring bag, custom vintage knit hat, mustache tattoo, and a button.
+ Sam Adams beer and Angry Orchard hard cider at the finish line (or you could have it before the race, if you chose).
+ hot chocolate at the aid station.
+ food trucks at the finish.
+ lots of great costumes and ugly sweaters.
+ parking available at Soldier Field for $20.
+ easy access to race via CTA.
+ they partnered with Save the Children this year (was Toys for Tots last year) - like that they partner with charities & money goes to good organizations
+ late start. I actually did a race at 9 in Grant Park and then headed over to Soldier Field. Generally I just like the later start so I can sleep in.
+ ugly sweater contest with prizes
+ dog friendly race. Loved seeing so many dogs with sweaters, and one with footie pajamas - adorable!
+ free photos; just download.

Didn't enjoy:
- the course was so narrow and caused a lot of congestion and back ups.
- the hat was the same as last year, so now I have two. Would have liked different colors, at least.
- I LOVE dogs and are happy that they can be included, but there were a few off leash and some that weren't handled well by their owners, which bothers me - - it's for the safety of not only the dog, but everyone around, and it concerns me when I see these things. I was afraid someone was going to trip over a leash or I'd witness a dog getting hit by a car. Eeks.
- Last year we were allowed two beverages at the finish, this year was just one. Sad face.

Here are the prices from this year:
Solo Runner/Walker -
$30 Early Registration
$35 starting Nov. 1, 2014
$40 day of registration, if available

4+ Person Ugly Sweater Teams -
$25 per person Early Registration
$30 per person starting Nov. 1, 2014
$35 per person day of registration, if available