Chicago Marathon 2024 in the United States

The Chicago Marathon has been held in the city of Chicago, Illinois since 1977. It is considered to be one of the six World Marathon Majors.

The other five are held in Berlin, Boston, London, New York City, and Tokyo.

Is Chicago Marathon Day a Public Holiday?

The Chicago Marathon is usually held on a Sunday in the month of October. Since Sunday is a non-working day in the United States, most government offices and schools are closed. Businesses may be closed or have reduced opening hours. Check with the public transit system directly to find out how the marathon will affect their schedules. Many city streets and roads may be closed or partly cordoned off to make space for marathoners and spectators.

In 2020, the marathon has been canceled in light of the coronavirus pandemic.

How Is the Chicago Marathon Celebrated?

A major Chicago event, the marathon attracts many runners and spectators from all parts of the world. The running course that traverses 29 Chicago neighborhoods begins and ends at Grant Park.

Bank of America Sponsorship

The marathon has been sponsored by the Bank of America since 2007. Because of this, it is now called the Bank of America Chicago Marathon. Between 1994 and 2007, the marathon was called the LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon because of the sponsorship by LaSalle Bank.

Cheerleaders at Mile 8

The Mile 8 Aid Station lies in the neighborhood of Lakeview East. Runners are treated to crowds of cheering locals and men from the Frontrunners/Frontwalkers club dancing while wearing cheerleader outfits.

Awards for Illinois Residents

One of the most prestigious marathons in the world, the Chicago Marathon has a hefty award purse for the winner. Currently, the winner receives a $100,000 award, while the second, third, fourth, and fifth person to finish the race share a pot of $100,000. In addition, Illinois residents can compete in their own division and win up to $2,000 for finishing the race in the top spot.

Street Parties

Countless Chicago residents use this day as an excuse to come out on the streets and enjoy music and dance. Many neighborhoods organize street parties and have DJs play music to cheer on runners as they pass through the area.

What Is the Chicago Marathon?

The Chicago Marathon is a competitive marathon and winners are awarded money. Anyone above the age of 16 can apply to participate in the race, though only those who finish the race within 6 hours and 30 minutes are officially timed.

Runners can participate by either meeting a qualifying requirement to gain guaranteed entry, or they can be put on a lottery list. International runners also sometimes opt to enter the race as part of a tour group package organized by local travel agencies.

In recent years, many runners have used the marathon as a way to raise money for charities around the world.

History of the Chicago Marathon

While the city of Chicago has hosted a marathon since 1905, the Chicago Marathon in its current version was first held in 1977 as the Mayor Daley Marathon.

While we diligently research and update our holiday dates, some of the information in the table above may be preliminary. If you find an error, please let us know.