Street Closures:: Major street closures will begin around 4 a.m. on race day, affecting downtown, North Side, Near West Side, and South Loop areas. Plan your travel accordingly.
Start Times:: The first wave of competitors starts as early as 7:20 a.m. on Sunday. Grant Park opens to participants at 5:30 a.m. and to spectators at 9:30 a.m.
2026 Registration:: Registration for the 2026 Chicago Marathon opens on October 21. The Chicago Distance Series, including the Shamrock Shuffle and Chicago 13.1, is also open for registration.
Distance Series Perks:: Finish all three races in the Distance Series (Shamrock Shuffle, Chicago 13.1, and Chicago Marathon) to guarantee a spot in the 2027 Chicago Marathon and receive an exclusive medal.
Why this matters: Being aware of street closures and start times will help you navigate the city during the marathon weekend. For runners, understanding the registration process for future races ensures you don't miss out on participating in these iconic events.
The Chicago Marathon causes significant street closures throughout the city. Closures begin as early as 4 a.m. on race day, affecting major roads in downtown and surrounding neighborhoods. Key closures include:
Columbus Drive (various sections)
Jackson Drive
Balbo Drive
Roosevelt Road
Tip: Use public transportation to navigate the city during the marathon. The Loop streets will generally be open by 9 a.m., but public transit is still recommended.
Abbott Chicago 5K:: Saturday at 7:30 a.m. in Grant Park.
Marathon Start Times (Sunday):
Men’s professional wheelchair race: 7:20 a.m.
Women’s professional wheelchair race: 7:21 a.m.
Handcycle start: 7:23 a.m.
Men’s and women’s professional start: 7:30 a.m.
Wave 1 start: 7:35 a.m.
Wave 2 start: 8:00 a.m.
Wave 3 start: 8:35 a.m.
Chicago Marathon:: Applications accepted Oct. 21 - Nov. 18. Entry costs $250 (U.S. residents) or $260 (non-U.S. residents).
Guaranteed Entry:: Available for time qualifiers, legacy finishers, canceled 2025 entries, charity participants, tour operator participants, and those who completed the 2025 Distance Series.
Non-Guaranteed Entry:: Apply for a non-guaranteed entry drawing; results announced Dec. 11.
Chicago 13.1:: Register by Oct. 21 for a special $110 entry fee (increases to $120 after). The race is scheduled for June 7, 2026.
Shamrock Shuffle:: Sign up by Oct. 21 for a special $51 entry fee (increases to $56 after). The 8K run takes place on March 22, 2026.
The 26.2-mile course starts in Grant Park and winds through 29 Chicago neighborhoods, including:
The Loop
Streeterville
Lincoln Park
Wrigleyville
Pilsen
Chinatown
Bronzeville
The course is known for being flat and fast, but runners should be prepared for potential slippery footing and the small incline at “Mount Roosevelt” near the finish.
When does the Chicago Marathon start?
The first race starts at 7:20 a.m. on Sunday.
What are the main street closures?
Key closures include Columbus Drive, Jackson Drive, and Balbo Drive. Check the official marathon website for a complete list.
How can I register for the 2026 Chicago Marathon?
Registration opens on October 21. You can apply for a guaranteed or non-guaranteed entry.
What is the Chicago Distance Series?
It includes the Shamrock Shuffle, Chicago 13.1, and the Chicago Marathon. Completing all three guarantees entry into the 2027 Chicago Marathon.
Plan your travel in advance, considering street closures and public transportation options.
If you're running, arrive early to your assigned corral.
Consider participating in the Chicago Distance Series for guaranteed entry into future marathons.
Registration for the 2026 Chicago Marathon opens October 21, so mark your calendar!
Are you planning to run or watch the Chicago Marathon? What are your tips for race day? Share this article with others who need to stay ahead of this trend!
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