World Marathon Major
Chicago Marathon
Chicago is often called the friendliest of the World Marathon Majors. The flat course, the neighbourhood-by-neighbourhood energy shifts, and the October weather make it one of the best marathon experiences for first-timers and veterans alike.
Photo by Mike Cox on Unsplash
- Distance: 42.2 km marathon.
- When: Second Sunday in October.
- Entry: Lottery or guaranteed entry via qualifying time.
- Course: Flat loop from and back to Grant Park, passing through 29 neighbourhoods.
- Crowd support: Over 1.7 million spectators line the course.
History
The people's marathon
The Chicago Marathon has been held since 1977 and has grown from a modest lakefront race into one of the largest marathons in the world, with roughly 50,000 finishers each year. It was a founding member of the Abbott World Marathon Majors in 2006.
Chicago is where Kelvin Kiptum ran 2:00:35 in 2023, setting a world record that cemented the city's reputation as one of the fastest marathon courses on the planet.
The Route
29 neighbourhoods, one incredible loop
The course starts and finishes in Grant Park on the shores of Lake Michigan. The loop route winds through 29 of Chicago's neighbourhoods, each with its own character:
- The Loop — through the downtown canyon of skyscrapers.
- Lincoln Park and Lakeview — leafy streets with deep crowd support.
- Pilsen and Chinatown — vibrant cultural neighbourhoods with music, food, and colour.
- Michigan Avenue finish — the final stretch back into Grant Park.
Each neighbourhood has a different energy. Chinatown's drummers, Pilsen's mariachi bands, and Boystown's dance music keep things interesting when your legs start to fade.
Entry
How to get in
- Lottery — the main entry method. Applications open in late autumn for the following October.
- Guaranteed entry via time — runners with recent fast marathon times can claim a guaranteed spot (e.g., sub-3:15 for men 18–29, sub-3:45 for women 18–29).
- Charity programme — guaranteed entry in exchange for fundraising.
- Tour operators — travel packages with guaranteed entries.
Beginner Advice
Tips for first-timers
- Take advantage of the flat course. Like Berlin, Chicago rewards even pacing and good preparation.
- Dress for October weather. It can range from warm and humid to cool and windy. Check the forecast and dress accordingly.
- Do not skip the neighbourhoods. The energy shifts every few kilometres — lean into it when your legs get heavy.
- Fuel early and often. The aid stations are well-stocked. Use them.
- Enjoy the finish through Grant Park. Running past the Chicago skyline toward the lake is a world-class finish line experience.
Your next step
Start with the basics
Chicago is a brilliant first marathon. The flat course and generous cutoff make it welcoming for newer runners.