Bank of America Chicago Marathon Event

Event History
The Bank of America Chicago Marathon has been held annually in the fall since 1977.

The Chicago Marathon is one of the six World Marathon Majors, alongside the Boston, New York, London, Berlin, and Tokyo Marathons. While the Chicago Marathon has historically always been one of the largest road race marathons in the world, it has experienced an outstanding increase in the number of runners coming out to race since the very first race back in 1977, which had over 4,000 runners. Now the race is limited to 45,000 runners – a cap that is typically reached months prior to race day.

Race Qualifications
Exceptions to the limited registration of 45,000 runners are made for elite runners and charity representatives. And only runners who finish within six and a half hours are officially timed.

In order to participate in the marathon, runners either need to register after meeting the standard qualifying time or being selected through a general lottery.

The Course
The Bank of America Chicago Marathon is known for being fast and flat, with many runners loving the absence of any notable hills. The course starts in Grant Park by Lake Michigan and goes through various neighborhoods within northern Chicago, leading all the way to the south side, then heading back to Grant Park. Marathoners enjoy taking in the scenic route, filled with the beautiful colors of autumn, and seeing diverse areas of the city.

Being such a popular event, the streets of Chicago become jam-packed with spectators every year – approximately 1.5 million – adding even more energy and excitement for everyone. Along the entire route, these enthusiastic spectators create a strong community of support and encouragement, cheering runners on.

If you’re running the marathon, or know someone who is, be sure to read our post about the best foods to eat on race day. Blue Plate Catering will be serving food to more than 3,950 marathon runners and attendees, as we have done for the last 20 years. With a unique menu that celebrates vibrant Chicago neighborhoods, we’ll have over 300 employees working the event. Hope to see you there!

For additional details about the marathon, visit the event website.