2026 Bank of America Shamrock Shuffle General Volunteers
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO:
SUNDAY, MARCH 22, 2026
VOLUNTEER KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
Volunteers play an important part in creating a safe and fun experience for all event attendees. We encourage you to read through the section specific to the area you will be supporting race weekend. The volunteer areas include:
• Packet Pick-up Volunteers
• The Mile Volunteers
• Start Volunteers
• Finish Volunteers
• Course Volunteers – Aid Station, Bike Marshals and Course Marshals
• Harrison Volunteer Compound Volunteers
• Sustainability Volunteers – Green Team and Start Hydration
• Participant Services Volunteers – Gear Check and Info Team
• Post-Race Party Volunteers – Activation and Beer Distribution
• 2-Mile Walk Volunteers
• Medical Volunteers
In addition to reviewing the information in this guide, you will receive training specific to your program area after checking into your volunteer shift.
If you have questions, please email volunteer@shamrockshuffle.com.
SECTION 1 | PACKET PICK-UP VOLUNTEERS
The two-day Packet Pick-up will be held in advance of the event for race participants. Volunteers supporting this area should be aware of the following:
What are the responsibilities of a Packet Pick-up volunteer?
• T-Shirt Distribution: Volunteers will welcome participants and distribute participant bags and t-shirts. Individuals with strong customer service skills are encouraged to volunteer for this role.
• Packet Distribution: Volunteers will welcome participants, verify their bib tag and confirm their participant information (displayed on an iPad) before releasing their packet to them. Individuals who are organized and have good customer service skills are encouraged to volunteer for this role.
When is my shift?
Packet Pick-up is Friday, March 20 and Saturday, March 21. Please refer to your race week confirmation email for your specific shift details.
Where do I check in for my shift?
Packet Pick-up Volunteer Check-in is located at the Harrison Volunteer Compound. Enter via Balbo Drive from Michigan Avenue. Volunteers will be escorted to the main Packet Pick-up tent located on the south side of Buckingham Fountain in Grant Park after they check in. Please arrive at your scheduled shift start time and report to Volunteer Check-in. Click here to view a map
How do I get there?
Public transportation: We encourage volunteers to take public transportation for a greener Chicago.
• CTA – The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) is the most affordable, environmentally friendly and definitive Chicago way to travel on race weekend. The CTA offers a variety of ways to get to and from the Bank of America Shamrock Shuffle in Grant Park. For information on CTA fares and transit directions to and from the event, visit transitchicago.com
• South Shore Line – Participants and spectators are encouraged to take the South Shore Line race weekend. The South Shore Line runs from South Bend, Indiana to Chicago with stops along the way. Park your car at one of the convenient South Shore Line stations and ride in comfort to Grant Park. Visit mysouthshoreline.com for more information.
• Metra Train – Participants and spectators are encouraged to take advantage of Metra’s $7 Saturday/Sunday Day Pass, good for unlimited rides on either Saturday or Sunday, to attend Packet Pick-up and race day activities. In addition, the $10 Weekend Pass (available on the Ventra app only) is good for unlimited rides on both weekend days. Ventra App users can purchase a Metra Day Pass or Saturday or Sunday Pass and upgrade to the Regional Day Pass for unlimited rides on CTA and Pace for 24 hours for an additional $2.50. (Requires registered Ventra card). Bike to Grant Park: Public bike racks are located around the perimeter of Grant Park. Please note that we do not allow bike storage within the Volunteer Check-in area.
Parking: Millennium Garages offers affordable parking options for Bank of America Shamrock Shuffle attendees at all four convenient underground garages situated beneath Grant Park, Millennium Park and Maggie Daley Park. Purchase parking for race weekend in advance online for a discounted rate. Parking passes are valid at all four garages: Millennium Lakeside, Millennium Park, Grant Park South and Grant Park North. For more information and to reserve race weekend parking, visit millenniumgarages.com
What should I wear?
All volunteers will receive a complimentary long sleeve t-shirt, hat and credential when they arrive to check-in. Packet Pick-up will take place in a climate-controlled tent. We recommend wearing comfortable shoes.
Is food provided?
Snacks, water and coffee are provided to all volunteers. Additionally, volunteers who sign up for multiple shifts may receive a meal depending on the duration of their shift(s). Please note that while we try to provide a range of food items, we cannot guarantee that snacks will accommodate all dietary restrictions.
Will a supervisor be present to provide instructions and support me, as needed, during my volunteer shift?
Yes. All volunteers will be introduced to their supervisor upon arrival. Your supervisor will provide training specific to your role, and they will be available throughout your shift to support you as needed. If you have any issues with your supervisor or need additional support, please report back to Volunteer Check-in for further assistance.
All volunteers will receive a credential at check-in. In case of an emergency, please refer to the phone numbers listed on the back of your credential.
SECTION 2: THE MILE
The Mile welcomes participants of all abilities, from walkers to families to competitive athletes, to take part in a fun spring race that weaves through Chicago’s front yard, Grant Park.
Volunteers supporting this area should be aware of the following.
What are the responsibilities of The Mile volunteers?
Volunteers will support participants of The Mile event that takes place on Saturday of race weekend. Volunteer tasks include race day bib pick-up, gear check, start line and finish line. You will receive your specific assignment at check-in.
When is my shift?
The Mile will take place on Saturday, March 21. Please refer to your race week confirmation email for your specific shift details.
Where do I check in for my shift?
The Mile Volunteer Check-in is located at the Harrison Volunteer Compound. Enter via Balbo Drive from Michigan Avenue. Volunteers will be escorted to their specific role within Grant Park after they check in. Click here to view a map
How do I get there?
Public transportation: We encourage volunteers to take public transportation for a greener Chicago.
• CTA – The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) offers an economical and convenient way to check out all Chicago has to offer. For information on CTA fares and transit directions to and from the event, visit transitchicago.com
• South Shore Line – Participants and spectators are encouraged to take the South Shore Line race weekend. The South Shore Line runs from South Bend, Indiana to Chicago with stops along the way. Park your car at one of the convenient South Shore Line stations and ride in comfort to Grant Park. Visit mysouthshoreline.com for more information.
• Metra Train – Participants and spectators are encouraged to take advantage of Metra’s $7 Saturday/Sunday Day Pass, good for unlimited rides on either Saturday or Sunday, to attend Packet Pick-up and race day activities. In addition, the $10 Weekend Pass (available on the Ventra app only) is good for unlimited rides on both weekend days. Ventra App users can purchase a Metra Day Pass or Saturday or Sunday Pass and upgrade to the Regional Day Pass for unlimited rides on CTA and Pace for 24 hours for an additional $2.50. (Requires registered Ventra card).
Parking: Millennium Garages offers affordable parking options for Bank of America Shamrock Shuffle attendees at all four convenient underground garages situated beneath Grant Park, Millennium Park and Maggie Daley Park. Purchase parking for race weekend in advance online for a discounted rate. Parking passes are valid at all four garages: Millennium Lakeside, Millennium Park, Grant Park South and Grant Park North. For more information and to reserve race weekend parking, visit millenniumgarages.com.
What should I wear?
You will receive a complimentary long sleeve t-shirt, hat and credential when you check in. In addition to the items you will receive, we recommend wearing comfortable shoes during your shift. We also encourage you to check the weather forecast and dress accordingly. The event will go on rain or shine!
Is food provided?
Snacks and water are provided to all volunteers. Please note that while we try to provide a range of food items, we cannot guarantee that snacks will accommodate all dietary restrictions.
Will a supervisor be present to provide instructions and support me, as needed, during my volunteer shift? Yes. All volunteers will be introduced to their supervisor upon arrival. Your supervisor will provide training specific to your role, and they will be available throughout your shift to support you as needed. If you have any issues with your supervisor or need additional support, please report back to Volunteer Check-in or call the Volunteer Team at 312.796.8392 for further assistance.
All volunteers will receive a credential at check-in. In case of an emergency, please refer to the phone numbers listed on the back of your credential.
SECTION 3: GRANT PARK VOLUNTEERS
The Bank of America Shamrock Shuffle will take place in Grant Park on Sunday, March 22.
Volunteers working in Grant Park should be aware of the following general volunteer information and area-specific information. Continue reading after the FAQ for more information on Start, Finish, Harrison Volunteer Compound, Sustainability (Green Team and Start Hydration), Participant Services (Gear Check and Info Team), Post-Race Party and 2-Mile Walk volunteer roles.
When is my shift?
The Bank of America Shamrock Shuffle will take place on Sunday, March 22. Please refer to your race week confirmation email for your specific shift details.
Where do I check in for my shift?
Your volunteer role will be in Grant Park. All Grant Park volunteers will check in at the Harrison Volunteer Compound. The Harrison Volunteer Compound is located in Grant Park just east of the intersection of Michigan Avenue and Balbo Drive. Volunteers must enter via Balbo Drive from Michigan Avenue. You will be required to show your race week confirmation email (printed or on your phone) to access the Volunteer Compound. Click here to view a map
How do I get there?
Public transportation: We encourage volunteers to take public transportation for a greener Chicago.
• CTA – The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) offers an economical and convenient way to check out all Chicago has to offer. For information on CTA fares and transit directions to and from the event, visit transitchicago.com.
• South Shore Line – Participants and spectators are encouraged to take the South Shore Line race weekend. The South Shore Line runs from South Bend, Indiana to Chicago with stops along the way. Park your car at one of the convenient South Shore Line stations and ride in comfort to Grant Park. Visit mysouthshoreline.com for more information.
• Metra Train – Participants and spectators are encouraged to take advantage of Metra’s $7 Saturday/Sunday Day Pass, good for unlimited rides on either Saturday or Sunday, to attend Packet Pick-up and race day activities. In addition, the $10 Weekend Pass (available on the Ventra app only) is good for unlimited rides on both weekend days. Ventra App users can purchase a Metra Day Pass or Saturday or Sunday Pass and upgrade to the Regional Day Pass for unlimited rides on CTA and Pace for 24 hours for an additional $2.50. (Requires registered Ventra card). Bike to Grant Park: World Bicycle Relief will provide a free bike valet on Sunday, March 22 from 4:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. for participants and volunteers at the southeast corner of Michigan Avenue and Van Buren Street. Individuals are encouraged to bring a bike lock in the event the Bike Valet has reached capacity. Public bike racks are located around the perimeter of Grant Park. Please note that we do not allow bike storage within the Harrison Volunteer Compound. Divvy stations are located at Michigan Avenue and Jackson Boulevard, as well as Michigan Avenue and Ida B. Wells Drive for your convenience.
Race day parking: Millennium Garages offers affordable parking options for Bank of America Shamrock Shuffle attendees at all four convenient underground garages situated beneath Grant Park, Millennium Park and Maggie Daley Park. Purchase parking for race weekend in advance online for a discounted rate. Parking passes are valid at all four garages: Millennium Lakeside, Millennium Park, Grant Park South and Grant Park North. For more information and to reserve race weekend parking, visit millenniumgarages.com. Please note that road closures will be in effect on race day. We encourage volunteers to plan ahead for the road closures.
What should I wear?
You will receive a complimentary long sleeve t-shirt, hat and credential when you check in. In addition to the items you will receive, we recommend wearing comfortable shoes during your shift. We also encourage you to check the weather forecast and dress accordingly. The event will go on rain or shine!
Is food provided?
Snacks, water and coffee are provided to all volunteers in the Harrison Volunteer Compound. Please enjoy offerings after you check in or come back for a break throughout your shift! Please note that while we try to provide a range of food items, we cannot guarantee that snacks will accommodate all dietary restrictions.
Will a supervisor be present to provide instructions and support me, as needed, during my volunteer shift? Yes. All volunteers will be introduced to their supervisor upon arrival. Your supervisor will provide training specific to your role, and they will be available throughout your shift to support you as needed. If you have any issues with your supervisor or need additional support, please report back to Volunteer Check-in for further assistance.
All volunteers will receive a credential at check-in. In case of an emergency, please refer to the phone numbers listed on the back of your credential.
START VOLUNTEERS
The role of start corral volunteers is to regulate access into the start corrals and to control the forward progress of participants through the start corrals. Each volunteer is assigned to a specific corral. Within each corral, volunteers will be assigned by their corral supervisors to one of three positions.
• Sign holder: Hold tall corral signs to make each corral easily identifiable to participants.
• Gatekeeper: Stand at the corral entrance and verify that each participant entering has a valid bib number (i.e. the participant bib matches the corral).
• Rope holder: Form a line stretching from curb to curb on the roadway. Hold the yellow rope to create a barrier between corrals. At the direction of your corral supervisor, slowly move forward as the race starts.
Once all participants have crossed the start line, each start corral volunteer will have a post-start role to complete before the end of their shift. Specific tasks will be assigned to each corral. This role could include any of the following tasks: assist with the start of a later corral, assist event staff with start line teardown, help to roll up banners and fencing or pick up discarded clothing items left at the start line. These items will be donated as part of the event’s sustainability initiative.
FINISH VOLUNTEERS
Finish volunteers will fill the following roles.
• Finish Line Food: Volunteers will be in the food distribution area after the finish line, where they will be responsible for setting up tables, unpacking food items that will be distributed to participants and helping to keep the area clean and organized. At the end of the day, volunteers will assist with removing light, groundbased finish line branding, rolling snow fence and re-packing remaining food for donation to the Greater Chicago Food Depository.
• Finish Line Gatorade: Volunteers will work in the Gatorade distribution area after the finish line. Responsibilities include mixing, pouring and distributing Gatorade to thirsty participants and helping to keep the area clean and organized. At the end of the day, volunteers will assist with removing light, ground-based finish line branding, rolling snow fence and re-packing remaining fluids and supplies.
• Finish Line Medals: Volunteers have the opportunity to officially award all our race finishers! Volunteers will assist with unpacking, organizing and distributing medals to participants as they cross the finish line.
• Finish Line Water: Volunteers will work in the water distribution area after the finish line. Responsibilities include setting up water tables, distributing bottled water to participants and helping to keep the area clean and organized. At the end of the day, volunteers will assist with removing light, ground-based finish line branding, rolling snow fence and re-packing remaining bottled water and finish line supplies. Light physical labor is involved in this role.
• Runner Refresh People Movers: Volunteers will help control traffic flow throughout the finish line area. They will be spread out throughout the area and continually encourage runners to keep moving.
• Saturday Event Set Up: This volunteer project will take place on the Saturday of event weekend in preparation for race day. Volunteers will assist with general event set-up alongside fellow volunteers and event staff. Tasks may include unpacking finisher medals, setting up gear check boxes and other event support as needed.
HARRISON VOLUNTEER COMPOUND
Harrison Volunteer Compound volunteers will be stationed in the Harrison Volunteer Compound, where responsibilities will include electronically checking in volunteers on iPads, t-shirt and hat distribution, replenishing t-shirts and carrying boxes, replenishing snacks and breaking down boxes. Training and instruction will be provided on-site when you arrive.
SUSTAINABILITY (GREEN TEAM AND START HYDRATION) VOLUNTEERS
Sustainability volunteers will fill the following roles.
• Green Team: This is a hands-on position and requires outgoing volunteers energized to make a difference! Volunteers will assist runners to correctly recycle and compost specific products distributed by the event such as water bottles, Gatorade cups, banana peels and food.
• Start Hydration: Volunteers will distribute water and Gatorade to Shamrock Shuffle participants, as well as assist with the setup and cleanup of the pre-race hydration station.
PARTICIPANT SERVICES (GEAR CHECK AND INFO TEAM) VOLUNTEERS
Participant Services volunteers will fill the following roles.
• Gear Check: Volunteers will be stationed in the Gear Check facilities where they will collect and organize gear check bags from participants before the race and return bags after the race.
• Info Team: Info Team volunteers assist race participants, spectators and other volunteers by providing general information and directions to key destinations in Grant Park and answering any questions they may have about the event. For this assignment, volunteers must be at least 18 years of age and should be able to stand for four or more hours.
POST-RACE PARTY (ACTIVATIONS AND BEER) VOLUNTEERS
Post-Race Party volunteers will fill the following roles.
• Activations: Volunteers will be stationed at a variety of activations at the Post-Race Party. Tasks include assisting participants with photo activation stations and yard games.
• Beer Distribution: Volunteers will be stationed in the beer tent located inside the Post-Race Party, where they will pour and serve beer to participants ages 21 and over, as well as help keep the area clean and organized. Please note that all volunteers must be 21 years of age or older for this position.
2-MILE WALK VOLUNTEERS
2-Mile Walk volunteers will fill the following roles.
• Aid Station: Aid Station volunteers for the 2-Mile Walk will be stationed along the Lakefront Trail, where they will be responsible for distributing water to participants, as well as assisting with the setup and cleanup of the Aid Station.
• Course Marshals: Course marshals are very important as they have many key responsibilities, which include making sure the course stays clear of traffic and vehicles to ensure the safety of participants and spectators and acting as a source of information about the event (provided) and surrounding neighborhood. For the 2-Mile Walk, course marshals will be near and along the Lakefront Trail. For this assignment, volunteers must be at least 18 years of age and should be able to stand for four or more hours.
• Start Corral: Join the start line team in their efforts to regulate access to the start corrals, control flow through pedestrian crosswalks and keep participants organized as they move toward the start line to kick off their running season. Once all participants have crossed the start line, each start corral volunteer will have a post-start role to complete before the end of their shift. Volunteers will assist with the removal of light, groundbased start line branding and collect discarded clothing that will be donated to a local shelter.
SECTION 4: COURSE VOLUNTEERS
The Bank of America Shamrock Shuffle course starts and finishes in Grant Park and weaves through the heart of downtown Chicago.
Volunteers supporting course operations should be aware of the following.
What are the responsibilities of a course volunteer?
• Aid Station: Volunteers will distribute water and Gatorade to race participants and assist with the setup and cleanup of the Aid Station.
• Bike Marshal: Bike Marshals ensure that the course is clear of spectators in advance of the wheelchair athletes and runners.
• Course Marshal: Course marshal responsibilities include making sure the course stays clear of traffic and vehicles, ensuring the safety of participants and spectators and acting as a source of information about the event and surrounding neighborhood. Course marshal volunteers must be at least 18 years of age and should be able to stand for four or more hours.
When is my shift?
The Bank of America Shamrock Shuffle will take place on Sunday, March 22. Please refer to your race week confirmation email for your specific shift details.
Where do I check in for my shift?
Course volunteers report directly to their Aid Station, Bike Marshal or Course Marshal check-in location located along the course. Please refer to your race week confirmation email for your specific location details.
How do I get there?
• Public transportation: The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) offers an economical and convenient way to check out all Chicago has to offer. For information on CTA fares and transit directions to and from the event, visit transitchicago.com
• Parking: If you plan on driving, please be aware of street closures and plan extra travel time to accommodate for traffic. Please reach out to your Captain before race day to discuss parking options.
What
should
I wear?
You will receive a complimentary long sleeve t-shirt, hat and credential when you check in. In addition to the items you will receive, we recommend wearing comfortable shoes during your shift. We also encourage you to check the weather forecast and dress accordingly. The event will go on rain or shine!
Is food provided?
Snacks, water and coffee are provided to all volunteers on the course. Please enjoy offerings after you check in. Please note that while we try to provide a range of food items, we cannot guarantee that snacks will accommodate all dietary restrictions.
Will a supervisor be present to provide instructions and support me, as needed, during my volunteer shift?
Yes. All volunteers will be introduced to their supervisor upon arrival. Your supervisor will provide training specific to your role, and they will be available throughout your shift to support you as needed. If you have any issues with your supervisor or need additional support, please call the Volunteer Team at 312.796.8392 for further assistance.
All volunteers will receive a credential at check-in. In case of an emergency, please refer to the phone numbers listed on the back of your credential.
SECTION 5: MEDICAL VOLUNTEERS
Volunteers supporting the medical team should be aware of the following.
What are the responsibilities of a medical volunteer?
Medical volunteers are responsible for assisting with the safety of and providing medical care to runners, spectators and other event staff and volunteers. Assignments will be determined by the Medical Committee and communicated in your Race Week Confirmation Email. Please note that your assignment may change at the discretion of the Medical Committee on race morning based on race day conditions and volunteer attrition.
When is my shift?
The Bank of America Shamrock Shuffle will take place on Sunday, March 22. Please refer to your race week confirmation email for your specific shift details.
Where do I check in for my shift?
All medical volunteers will check in at the Harrison Volunteer Compound. The Harrison Volunteer Compound is located in Grant Park just east of the intersection of Michigan Avenue and Balbo Drive. Volunteers must enter via Balbo Drive from Michigan Avenue. You will be required to show your race week confirmation email (printed or on your phone) to access the Volunteer Compound. Click here to view a map
How do I get there?
Public transportation: We encourage volunteers to take public transportation for a greener Chicago:
• CTA – The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) offers an economical and convenient way to check out all Chicago has to offer. For information on CTA fares and transit directions to and from the event, visit transitchicago.com
• South Shore Line – Participants and spectators are encouraged to take the South Shore Line race weekend. The South Shore Line runs from South Bend, Indiana to Chicago with stops along the way. Park your car at one of the convenient South Shore Line stations and ride in comfort to Grant Park. Visit mysouthshoreline.com for more information.
• Metra Train – Participants and spectators are encouraged to take advantage of Metra’s $7 Saturday/Sunday Day Pass, good for unlimited rides on either Saturday or Sunday, to attend Packet Pick-up and race day activities. In addition, the $10 Weekend Pass (available on the Ventra app only) is good for unlimited rides on both weekend days. Ventra App users can purchase a Metra Day Pass or Saturday or Sunday Pass and upgrade to the Regional Day Pass for unlimited rides on CTA and Pace for 24 hours for an additional $2.50. (Requires registered Ventra card). Race day bike valet: World Bicycle Relief will provide a free bike valet on Sunday, March 22 from 4:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. for participants and volunteers at the southeast corner of Michigan Avenue and Van Buren Street. Individuals are encouraged to bring a bike lock in the event the Bike Valet has reached capacity. Public bike racks are located around the perimeter of Grant Park. Please note that we do not allow bike storage within the Harrison Volunteer Compound. Divvy stations are located at Michigan Avenue and Jackson Boulevard, as well as Michigan Avenue and Ida B. Wells Drive, for your convenience.
Race day parking: Millennium Garages offers affordable parking options for Bank of America Shamrock Shuffle attendees at all four convenient underground garages situated beneath Grant Park, Millennium Park and Maggie Daley Park. Purchase parking for race weekend in advance online for a discounted rate. Parking passes are valid at all four garages: Millennium Lakeside, Millennium Park, Grant Park South and Grant Park North. For more information and to reserve race weekend parking, visit millenniumgarages.com. Please note that road closures will be in effect on race day. We encourage volunteers to plan ahead for the road closures.
What should I wear?
You will receive a complimentary long sleeve t-shirt, hat and credential when you check in. In addition to the items you will receive, we recommend wearing comfortable shoes during your shift. We also encourage you to check the weather forecast and dress accordingly. The event will go on rain or shine!
Is food provided?
Snacks, water and coffee are provided to all volunteers in the Harrison Volunteer Compound. Please enjoy offerings after you check in. Please note that while we try to provide a range of food items, we cannot guarantee that snacks will accommodate all dietary restrictions.
Will a supervisor be present to provide instructions and support me, as needed, during my volunteer shift?
Yes. All volunteers will be introduced to their supervisor upon arrival. Your supervisor will provide training specific to your role, and they will be available throughout your shift to support you as needed. If you have any issues with your supervisor or need additional support, please report back to Volunteer Check-in or call the Volunteer Team at 312.796.8392 for further assistance.
All volunteers will receive a credential at check-in. In case of an emergency, please refer to the phone numbers listed on the back of your credential.
