Philadelphia Marathon Weekend 2025: Record Numbers, Road Closures, and More

Record Participation:: Over 36,000 runners are expected, marking a record-breaking turnout due to the introduction of a waitlist.

Greek Tradition:: Golden olive wreaths, handcrafted in Marathon, Greece, will crown the winners.

Road Closures:: Significant road closures will affect the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Kelly Drive, and surrounding areas. Knowing road closure times is crucial if you plan to travel in those areas!

Christmas Village:: The Christmas Village in LOVE Park and the Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market in Dilworth Park will open, offering a festive experience for runners and visitors.

Elite Runners:: The Half Marathon will feature elite runners such as Jared Ward and Lauren Fleshman.

Race Details:

Half Marathon:: Saturday at 7:00 AM, starting at 22nd Street and Benjamin Franklin Parkway.

8K Run:: Saturday at 11:00 AM, starting in front of the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

Full Marathon:: Sunday at 7:00 AM, starting at 22nd Street and Benjamin Franklin Parkway.

Children’s Run:: Sunday at 10:00 AM, starting at Eakins Oval.

Road Closures:

Benjamin Franklin Parkway:: Closed in both directions from Friday to Sunday, with partial reopening for rush hour.

Kelly Drive:: Various closures and detours.

I-676 and I-76 Ramps:: Closures affecting access to Center City.

Cheering Zones:

Designated cheer zones along the routes, with key viewing spots recommended by Runsignup.

Additional Events:

Health and Fitness Expo:: Pennsylvania Convention Center, Friday (12 PM - 9 PM) and Saturday (9 AM - 5 PM).

Nemours Children’s Fun Zone:: Same location as the Expo, Saturday (9 AM - 1 PM).

Transportation:

SEPTA Detours:: Numerous bus routes will be detoured; check SEPTA's website for the latest updates. Regional Rail will run to Suburban Square or 30th Street Stations.

A:: The Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Kelly Drive, and several surrounding streets will be closed or detoured. Check official sources for detailed closure schedules.

A:: Runsignup recommends various spots along the half and full marathon routes, including 16th and Arch streets, Columbus Boulevard at Race Street, and Kelly Drive near Spring Garden Street.

Plan your travel in Philadelphia carefully, considering the extensive road closures.

Use the Philadelphia Marathon's event app to track runners and receive updates.

Consider visiting the Christmas Village or Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market for a festive experience.

Support the runners by cheering them on at designated viewing locations.

Be aware of SEPTA detours and plan your public transportation accordingly.