Overall ECSWI weekend is always a good one. I've worked the race three times and this was my first year running it. I signed up for the 5K probably a week before registration closed.

Pros:
-Packet pick up was easy three locations: TNF Madison, TNF Brookfield, TNF Chicago. Also on race day.
-Packet pick up at TNF Brookfield on Friday ended with a panel discussion with TNF Ultra Runner Stephanie Howe and founders of November Project Brogan and Bojan, who also dabble in trail running. If you are a run geek and like being around badass trail runners the panel is a great way to get some inspiration. In 2015 the panel was Dean Karnazes, Timothy Olson & Dylan Bowman.
-Race day packet pick up for most distances (I know not 50MI)
-Every bib had its own color. Those colors corresponded to the flags on the course as well as the medal ribbons. That made it easy to follow where the course was, even though the 5k was only an out and back.
-50/50 dirt road and trail. Which was fine for me. I'm not too comfortable on trails yet. it was still fun for me!
-Some races had waves and most races started every hour to make for less crowded trails.
-Volunteers were great.
-Photos up the same day
-No aid station for the 5k so my 5 stars are for the post race finishers chute. Bars, gels, bagels, banana, peanut butter, water bottle for finishers.
-Post race beer for every finisher. Some distances received a free meal with vegan / meat options. Other wise food was available for purchase.
-Many vendors with interactive things to do in the race village.
-Repreve was on site collecting water bottles for their products, it's a great way to promote sustainability
-The North Face had corn hole and swag for participants
-GoreTex
-Results tent
-Medical tent
-ice buckets for runners
-Very easy to see your friends coming in at the finish line. It's not super crowded which makes it much easier
-Parking was easy
-Saturday they had real bathrooms open, Sunday port o potties
-I didn't use gear check
-ECS Had an info booth which answered any questions runners could have.

Cons:
-Nothing I can think of! I made it in the second spot of the podium and the t-shirt in the bag was an XL, I wish that it was a smaller size... My mom loves it though!