It is the opening race of Chicago's marathon weekend, with runners from around the world doing a shakeout lap of downtown the day before the marathon. If you are not running, the finish at Wacker and Adams is a place to watch the start of race weekend.
What to expect
An early-morning road race through the Loop: corrals open at 6:30 AM, the wheelchair start is at 7:25 AM, the race starts at 7:30 AM, and the finish line closes at 9 AM.
Good to know
- Registration for 2026 reached capacity and is closed; the organizer takes sign-ups for 2027 notifications.
- Runners must be 8 or older and keep a 15:00-per-mile pace.
- Expect downtown street closures on Saturday morning.
- Bib pickup is at the Abbott Health & Fitness Expo at McCormick Place.
Going? Keep it.
Also in Downtown, the Loop & West Loop
More sports that weekend
Common questions
Can I still sign up?
No. The organizer says 2026 registration reached capacity and is closed.
Where are the start and finish?
Start on Ida B. Wells Drive between Columbus Drive and Michigan Avenue; finish at Wacker Drive and Adams Street.