Chicago City Wire

City officials and organizers are preparing for the 2025 Bank of America Chicago Marathon, which will take place on Sunday, October 12. The event is expected to draw more than 53,000 runners from all 50 states and over 130 countries. The marathon route covers 29 neighborhoods across a distance of 26.2 miles, leading to extensive street closures and parking restrictions throughout the city.

The Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC), along with other city agencies and private partners, will monitor the marathon from the Emergency Operations Center to coordinate resources as needed.

"The City of Chicago has been working with race organizers and our law enforcement partners in the planning and execution of the Marathon, in an effort to minimize impacts while making it a safe event for race participants, residents and visitors,” said Frank Velez, Executive Director of OEMC. “Safety is our number one priority, and we want to remind everyone to report any suspicious or criminal activity by calling 9-1-1.”

Residents are reminded about safety measures in place during large gatherings. OEMC encourages people to report anything unusual either onsite or by calling emergency services. The "If You See Something, Say Something" campaign continues as part of national efforts against terrorism.

Since 2002, the Chicago Marathon has raised over $358 million for charities and contributed $683 million in economic impact in 2024.

“We’re thrilled to welcome more than 53,000 participants, 10,000 volunteers and the Chicago community this weekend for the 47th running of the Bank of America Chicago Marathon,” said Carey Pinkowski, Executive Race Director. “No event in Chicago brings people, neighborhoods, businesses, public safety, and government agencies together more than the Chicago Marathon. We’re excited to celebrate our city and our sport on the streets of Chicago this weekend.”

The Abbott Health and Fitness Expo will serve as packet pick-up at McCormick Place Lakeside Center from Thursday through Saturday before race day. On Saturday morning at 7:30 a.m., Grant Park will host the Abbott Chicago 5K with road closures beginning at 1 a.m.; vehicles not removed may be ticketed or towed.

On Sunday morning before dawn, additional parking restrictions will be enforced along the marathon course; towing will be strictly applied where necessary. Main thoroughfares not impacted by closures have been identified for alternative travel routes.

Public transportation is recommended due to expected congestion; information on reroutes can be found via TransitChicago.com or Metra.com.

Security procedures remain strict: participants must show identification when collecting packets at the expo; only clear bags issued by organizers are allowed for storage during the race; entry into Grant Park’s staging area requires passing through security checkpoints at designated gateways.

Spectators should note that access around start/finish areas is restricted only to registered runners displaying bibs or credentialed staff. Random bag checks may occur among those carrying large bags near spectator zones; unattended items will be removed by authorities.

The Federal Aviation Administration has placed temporary flight restrictions within two nautical miles around downtown from early morning until late afternoon on October 12—drones or aircraft violating these rules could face penalties.

Throughout marathon weekend OEMC will continue monitoring events citywide from its operations center alongside police deployments including SWAT units and helicopter support where necessary. Daily coordination calls between departments ensure communication remains consistent regarding public safety plans.

For updates on weather conditions or emergencies related to race activities residents are encouraged to download the free OEMC app available via Apple App Store or Google Play—or visit their website at Chicago.gov/OEMC—for alerts as well as preparedness tips.

To help identify locations quickly within Grant Park or along Lake Shore Drive during emergencies residents should look out for numbered green signs attached to light poles—these markers assist first responders when providing assistance after a call is made.