Bank of America Chicago Marathon: Sunday, October 12, 2025 Features
The Bank of America Chicago Marathon, scheduled for Sunday, October 12, 2025, is one of the world’s most renowned and highly celebrated running events. In its 47th running, the elite competition still attracts runners from around the world with its distinctive mix of accessibility, scenic beauty, and celebratory community atmosphere.
As a member of the Abbott World Marathon Majors, the Chicago Marathon is renowned for its speedy, flat course, making it a top choice for elite runners in pursuit of world records and casual runners in pursuit of personal records. Following is an in-depth examination of the characteristics that will make this marathon a priority event in 2025.
A World-Class Course Through Chicago’s Heart
The signature characteristic of the marathon is its 26.2-mile course, which begins and finishes in Grant Park and takes the runners through 29 of Chicago’s unique neighborhoods. The runners get to run by famous structures like the Willis Tower, the Chicago River, and Millennium Park, along with lively enclaves like Old Town, Pilsen, and Chinatown. This cultural and architectural tour opens up the city’s rich history and pulsating heartbeat, making the race greater than physical victory—it’s a passage through the very heart of Chicago. The relatively flat course with negligible elevation gain has traditionally yielded four world records, several dozen national records, and numerous personal bests, which have made it one of the world’s fastest marathon courses.
Inclusivity and Accessibility
The Bank of America Chicago Marathon prides itself on being inclusive with participants hailing from over 100 countries and all 50 states. Whether a first-timer, pro, or wheelchair athlete, the competition accommodates divisions for men, women, and non-binary athletes, along with dedicated segments for wheelchair and handcycle participants. The event’s Para Athletics Program within the race further highlights the event’s dedication to accessibility, providing opportunities for athletes of every ability to run. With a 2025 field that will surpass 53,000 runners—after a record 160,000 applicants—the marathon demonstrates widespread, international appeal.
Steady Support All Along the Way
Runners are never alone in this quest, with superb on-course support. The marathon features 20 aid stations spaced one to two miles apart that supply water, hydration fluids, and energy gels to sustain the runners. Medical attention is easily accessible, and crews are deployed along the race route for safety. More than 1.7 million spectators pack the streets, creating an electric environment of cheers and support.
From the Mile 15 Charity Block Party through to the finish line’s Bank of America Cheer Zone, these locations capitalize on the excitement of race day, propelling runners to the home stretch on Columbus Drive.
Entry Options for All Runners
Gaining entry into the 2025 Chicago Marathon is competitive, yet there are several different entry avenues.
Guaranteed entries are open to legacy finishers (five or more previous Chicago Marathons completed within the last ten years), time qualifiers who reach certain thresholds, and members of the Bank of America Chicago Distance Series—who complete the Shamrock Shuffle 8K, Chicago 13.1, and the marathon in 2025. The Charity Program, which includes 217 nonprofit partners, enables runners to raise money (minimum $1,500 while applying, $2,100 thereafter) for a guaranteed entry, raising millions each year for such causes as healthcare and youth development.
For others, a non-guaranteed entry drawing, with selections made public December 12, 2024, provides an opportunity to win a spot in the field.
Weekend Race Celebrations
The marathon is a weekend celebration, more than a one-day affair. The Abbott Health & Fitness Expo, October 9-11 at McCormick Place, gets things started with packet pick-up, vendor exhibits, and expert presentations, attracting runners and fans. On race day, the Abbott Chicago 5K on Saturday, October 11, provides a shorter, festive run through the downtown, perfect for loosening up marathoners or for friends and family members who want to join in the fun. Following, the 27th Mile Post-Race Party in Butler Field hosts a wild celebration with entertainment, food, and a free beer for finishers 21 and older, providing a triumphant finale to the effort.
Advanced Technology and Timing
The marathon employs technology to enhance the experience for runners. The official race app, hosted by Tata Consultancy Services, features real-time tracking, interactive maps, and race-day information for runners and spectators. Timing is precise, with MYLAPS ThinTag technology recording splits at the start, every 5K, halfway, and the finish.
Electronically timed clocks along the route keep runners on schedule, and a 6-hour, 30-minute limit (15-minute-per-mile pace) makes it possible, with an event vehicle designating the cutoff for full course support.
A Legacy of Impact
Aside from the race itself, the Chicago Marathon also has a profound economic and charitable effect. In 2025, it is estimated to bring in more than $547 million to the Chicago economy, attracting tourists who spend money at local establishments. The Charity Program, since 2002, has raised more than $322 million, with 2025 set to contribute to that tally. This twofold emphasis on community and competition is indicative of the event’s larger meaning.
A Runner’s Dream
From its speedy pace and strong support to its welcoming vibe and party environment, the Bank of America Chicago Marathon on October 12, 2025, is one you’ll not soon forget. From a personal record to running for charity to taking in Chicago’s energy, there’s something for every finisher in Grant Park that’s special. With the city set to welcome another record-breaking field of runners, the marathon continues to be a peak of success—and a reflection of the staying power of running.