Run every October since 1977, the Bank of America Chicago Marathon is one of the World Marathon Majors, known for a flat, fast course that has produced multiple world records. Roughly 50,000 runners wind through 29 Chicago neighborhoods before finishing back in Grant Park, a route that has run every year except 1987 and 2020.
Its global race status and citywide route make it a core sports/adventure row.
The Chicago Marathon's modern era began September 25, 1977, under the name the Mayor Daley Marathon, with 4,200 runners
The race has run every year since except 1987, when only a half-marathon was held, and 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic forced a cancellation
Bank of America became title sponsor in 2008, and the race is one of the World Marathon Majors alongside Boston, New York, London, Berlin, and Tokyo, prized by elite runners for a flat, fast course through 29 North Side, West Side, and South Side neighborhoods
That course has produced world records, including the men's mark of 2:00:35 set by Kelvin Kiptum in 2023 and the women's mark of 2:09:56 set by Ruth Chepngetich in 2024, and it earned a World Athletics Heritage Plaque that same year
Entry through time qualification
or a charity fundraising program has remained the race's basic access structure for decades
balancing elite competition with mass participation
The race's reputation for producing world records on its flat
fast course has become a running theme of its own
with each new record reinforcing Chicago's status among the marathon's most competitive fields
11 October 2026
CTA is central on race day.
Runners typically wear lightweight, moisture-wicking running gear suited to early-October Chicago weather, which can range from cool mornings to mild afternoons; spectators should dress in...
At Bank of America Chicago Marathon, respect barriers, moving equipment and marshal guidance; photos are never worth stepping into active areas.
Chicago
Check official or local sources for ticketed areas, paid stands, and same-year access rules.
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Bank of America Chicago Marathon is listed for 11 October 2026. Always re-check the official or local source close to travel.
The festival is listed in Chicago, United States. The map coordinate is a planning reference, not a guarantee of a ticket gate or exact venue.
One day is the listed festival span. Add time for arrival, local transport, queues, and any route changes during the event.
Official source linked. Eventisimus separates source confidence from travel suggestions, so check final details before booking.
Chicago, IL
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