Chicago Marathon

What is the Chicago Marathon?

The Chicago Marathon represents a pinnacle of achievement for runners and it's easy to see why it's on the bucket list of so many marathoners out there.

Every September around 40,000 participants travel from all over the world to take on Chicago's annual 26.2-mile (42.2-km) footrace that travels through the heart of the windy city.

The Chicago Marathon is known for its flat and fast course so this is a great one for those chasing their personal best. The race starts and finishes in Grant Park and winds its way through one of the world's most magnificent cities. The course has produced four world records, several national records and countless personal bests.

Whether you are planning to take on the challenge and run the Chicago Marathon or provide some much-needed support from the sidelines, you are in for a treat. Spend the day soaking up the electric atmosphere and watch as the city becomes one big party celebrating triumph and endurance of the human spirit.

Need to know

The Abbott Health & Fitness Expo features over 100 exhibitors offering marathon merchandise and the latest in running footwear, apparel, nutrition and technology. This is also where participants can collect their running bibs and race packets. The three-day Expo is free and open to the public and is held at Chicago’s McCormick Place.

Did you know?

It takes  a crew of many16 days to set up everything ready for marathon day and a full 5 days to take everything down!

For more information on this exciting event, click on the link provided on this page and start making memories to last a lifetime. Don't forget to rate and review it at the top of this page and share your Chicago Marathon experience with the GoWhereWhen.com community.

Coronavirus is causing a number of event cancellations; we provide event website links on each page for you to check the latest updates.

See our Coronavirus page here.