The Sweetcorn 5K Classic is a memorial race in honor of Bill Orr, the original creater and director.  The Sweetcorn race began in 1978 as a 10K race and was shortened to 5K in 1982.

This years course will start in the heart of downtown Hoopeston at Main and Market.  You will run through the mostly shaded neighborhoods of our modest town. Along the way, you will be encouraged and cheered on by locals. Some who have watched this race as spectators for more than a decade!

The conclusion of the Sweetcorn 5K Classic begins a bustling and eventful Saturday, including the Sweetcorn Parade at 10am, the Sweetcorn Festival and an abundance of events and entertainment throughout the day.

Come to Hoopeston, run or walk the 5K (or 1 mile) and enjoy our annual Sweetcorn Festival!

Event details and schedule

82nd National Sweetcorn Festival Presents:  

2026 Sweetcorn 5K Classic 

and 1 Mile Run/Walk

 COURSE & FINISH LINE:

* Accurate, residential, heavily shaded

* Split times

* 2 Aid stations

* Medical support

* Finish line digital clock

* Computerized results

* Food and refreshments

 5K AWARDS:

Overall male and female winners of 5K receive a Race Champion Title belt. Age division awards consist of plaques 3 deep in each division.

1 Mile Fun Run/Walk Awards:

First place winner will receive a Race Champion Title belt. The next 9 finishers receive custom medallions. Non-enscribed medals for all other participants.

Little Corn Eaters Run For Fun

A short distance run for children 6 years and younger!

RACE DAY REGISTRATION AND CHECK-IN:

6:30 A.M. to 7:30 A.M. at the Downtown City Lot, 209 S. Market St. Hoopeston, IL

- 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk begins at 7:30 A.M.

- 5K Race begins at 8 A.M.

- Little Corn Eaters Run for Fun begins at the conclusion of the 5K Race, approximately at 8:45 A.M.

- Presentation of awards, approximately at 9 A.M.