The anticipation for the upcoming 2026 Chicago Marathon is building as runners prepare for one of the most prestigious marathons in the United States. Scheduled for Sunday, October 11, 2026, this will mark the 48th edition of the historic race, known for its vibrant cityscape and enthusiastic crowds. As the registration date approaches, enthusiasts and seasoned marathoners alike are gearing up to secure their spots.
Registration Details for 2026 Chicago Marathon
Registration for the 2026 Bank of America Chicago Marathon opens on October 21, 2025, at 10 a.m. CT and will remain open until November 18, 2025, at 2 p.m. CT. The registration process will feature two options: guaranteed and non-guaranteed entry applications.
This year’s entry fee is set at $250 for runners residing in the United States and $260 for international participants. Given the marathon’s popularity, securing a spot will require some planning, particularly for those aiming for guaranteed entry.
Understanding Registration Types
Runners looking to participate in the Chicago Marathon can choose between two entry types: guaranteed entry and the non-guaranteed entry drawing. The guaranteed entry is available to those who meet specific criteria outlined by the race organizers.
- Time Qualifiers: Runners who meet the age-graded qualifying standards for the event’s High Performance Division.
- Legacy Finishers: Runners who have completed the Chicago Marathon five or more times in the last 10 years.
- Canceled Entries: Participants who canceled their entries for the 2025 event.
- Charity Participants: Runners fundraising for an official charity through the Bank of America Chicago Marathon Charity Program.
- Tour Operators: Runners participating through an official tour operator as part of the Marathon Tour Operator Program.
- Distance Series Participants: Those who completed the 2025 Bank of America Chicago Distance Series.
For those not qualifying for a guaranteed entry, a non-guaranteed entry drawing provides another avenue for registration. Participants can expect to be notified about the selection on December 11, 2025.
Additional Events on the Marathon Calendar
In addition to the marathon itself, the Chicago running scene offers a variety of related events leading up to the main race. Notably, the fifth annual Bank of America Chicago 13.1 half marathon will occur on June 7, 2026, on Chicago’s West Side. Runners registering before October 21 can take advantage of an introductory fee of $110, which increases to $120 past this date.
Moreover, the annual Shamrock Shuffle, heralding the start of the running season, will take place on March 22, 2026, in Chicago’s Loop. This event, which integrates elements of the city’s St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, offers multiple distance options, including an 8K run, a mile event, and a 2-Mile Walk.
Registration for the Shamrock Shuffle is also open. An early registration fee of $51 for the 8K run is available until October 21, 2025, after which the cost increases to $56. The 2-Mile Walk is similarly priced at $51, while The Mile event costs $25, with a special $15 fee for youths aged 8 to 12.
Preparing for the 2026 Marathon
As the countdown to the registration opens, potential participants are encouraged to prepare. This involves not only securing a spot during the registration period but also considering training regimens and fundraising opportunities for participants choosing the charity route.
The 2026 Bank of America Chicago Marathon promises to be another memorable event, contributing to Chicago’s legacy of world-class marathons. It’s essential to keep updated details from the official website to ensure all requirements are met.
For further information about registering for the events mentioned, please visit the official Chicago Marathon website for marathon applications and updates, as well as Chicago 13.1’s site for half marathon details.
The Chicago Marathon has long been regarded as a must-participate race, attracting thousands of runners from across the globe each year. As you prepare for the next edition of this iconic race, remember to stay informed, follow registration timelines, and start training early to ensure an unforgettable marathon experience.
