MURPH Festival
Chicago's Memorial Day Weekend Celebration of Service, Fitness, and Community
Every Memorial Day month, we bring together veterans, service members, families, students, and neighbors for a full day of fitness, music, food, veteran resources, and community.
The MURPH Festival is the flagship event of Esprit de Corps Foundation. Whether you come to take on the Murph challenge, connect with local organizations, or just enjoy a great day with good people, this is where you belong.
WHAT IS THE MURPH?
The Murph is named after Lieutenant Michael P. Murphy, a Navy SEAL who gave his life in Afghanistan in 2005. The workout was his favorite, and every Memorial Day weekend people around the world complete it in his honor.
The challenge: 1 mile run, 100 pull-ups, 200 push-ups, 300 air squats, 1 mile run.
At MURPH Festival we offer the full Murph, a half Murph, team options, and a Memorial Walk so everyone can participate at their own level.
MURPH FESTIVAL 2026
Saturday, May 16, 2026 at the University of Illinois Chicago Flames Field
In partnership with UIC Student Veterans Affairs and UIC Recreation Facility.
Music. Food. Fitness. Veteran Resources. Fun Activities. All in one place.
WHERE THE MONEY GOES
Every dollar raised through MURPH Festival supports three things: keeping the event accessible for all participants, funding year-round veteran wellness and leadership programming, and building toward Chicago's first Veteran Recreation and Resource Center.
GET INVOLVED
There are a lot of ways to be part of MURPH Festival.
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Sponsor the event and put your brand alongside a mission that matters. Tiers from $750 to $10,000. Email events@espritdcf.org for our sponsorship deck.
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Vend at the festival and connect directly with the veteran community in Chicago. Email events@espritdcf.org with your business info or fill out this form.
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Partner with us on programming, activations, or resources. Email letsconnect@espritdcf.org.
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Volunteer on event day. Email info@espritdcf.org to sign up.