Best Fall Sporting Events In Chicago
The coming of fall conjures images of leaves changing, pumpkins and apple cider, but if you're in a sports-heavy city like Chicago, it undoubtedly also brings to mind the beginning of football season and other sporting events. Here are a few of the best ones to catch this fall in Chicago.
Chicago Bears vs. Green Bay Packers
Soldier Field
1410 S. Museum Campus Drive
Chicago, IL 60605
(312) 235-7000
www.chicagobears.com
Date: Sept. 28, 2014
On September 28, 2014, one of the great Midwestern football rivalries will be gearing up for its first match-up of the season. The Chicago Bears and Green Bay Packers have been old school rivals for quite a while. Both are good football teams and the games between them are always worth watching no matter which side you root for. If you're looking for a football game to get you into the spirit of the season, this is one not to be missed.
The Chicago Marathon
Grant Park
Chicago, IL
(312) 904-9800
www.chicagomarathon.com
Date: Oct. 12, 2014
On October 12, 2014, 45,000 or so runners will participate in the Bank of America Chicago Marathon. The race is popular with runners around the world for its fast, flat course and reputation for producing personal best times. The course winds throughout the city of Chicago, going as far north as Wrigleville and as far south as Chinatown, beginning and ending in Grant Park. Runners are never alone as crowds line the streets of the course, some of them offering pick-me-up treats to the runners from their own neighborhood in addition to the bananas, water and sports drinks offered by official volunteers. Runners can rely on colorful and clever homemade signs from spectators to cheer them on. Whether you participate, volunteer or just line the streets to cheer on the runners, you're bound to have a great time.
Northwestern University vs. Northern Illinois
Ryan Field
1501 Central St.
Evanston, IL 60201
(888) 467-8775
www.nusports.com
Date: Sept. 6, 2014
For some college football action, check out the spirited Northwestern University Wildcats on September 6, 2014 when they take on the Northern Illinois Huskies. Northwestern students make great fans and there are always tons of alumni in attendance at games. This game against another Illinois team should mean lots of fans for the opposing side as well, making for a spirited gathering both before and during the game. Check out Northwestern's website above for tickets and get there early for what's sure to be a fun time in the stands.
Related: Best Seats In Wrigley Field
Chicago Cubs
Wrigley Field
1060 W. Addison St.
Chicago, IL 60613
(773) 404-2827
www.chicago.cubs.mlb.com
It's a great year to get to a Cubs game at Wrigley as the team celebrates Wrigley Field's 100th anniversary with special promotions throughout the season. Check the promotions and giveaways section of its ticketing website for detailed information on each game. In addition to the 100th anniversary bobbleheads, retro uniforms and other giveaways, there are special event games sprinkled throughout the season. One to check out would be Big Ten Rivalry week of September 15 through the 17 as the Cubs play the Cincinnati Reds, the Dodgers and the Cardinals. During this week, wear your Big Ten team's colors and help the school with the most supporters win special access to the field.
Chicago Fire vs. Toronto FC
Toyota Park
7000 S. Harlem Ave.
Bridgeview, IL 60455
(708) 594-7200
www.chicago-fire.com
Date: Sept. 13, 2014
Check out a Major League Soccer match on September 13, 2014 as the Chicago Fire takes on the Toronto FC at home. Chicago Fire games are always a good time. If you have never been to a soccer match, they're a great one to start with. For even more spirit, sit with Section 8 in the Firehouse and experience the diehards chanting their constant encouragement to their team. Even if you're a novice to soccer, you'll enjoy the fast-paced, dramatic flair of the game and are sure to get caught up in the spirit of the fans.
Related: Best Lineup For A Chicago Fire Game
Meredith Lyons is an actor, competitive fighter and fitness instructor in Chicago who also owns an amazing cat named Jake. Meredith has been writing on Examiner as the Chicago Martial Arts Examiner since 2008. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.
