Philadelphia Marathon
Race snapshot
Race Day
36–55°F · Feels cold
Total elevation gain
Moderate rolling hills · Net elevation change +10 ft
Participants
Large field
Crowd Rating
Good crowd energy
The Lowdown
The Philadelphia Marathon Weekend has run as an annual city event since 1994 — 2026 marks its 33rd year — and has grown into a signature fall event that draws runners from across the United States and around the world. Held on the streets of historic Philadelphia, the race celebrates the city's rich history and vibrant neighborhoods while offering a fast, flat course that has become a popular goal race for both first-time marathoners and seasoned competitors. Over the years the event has become known for strong community support, charity partnerships, and a festival-like race weekend that includes a half marathon, 8K, family-friendly races, and expo events. The course showcases iconic Philadelphia landmarks and scenic urban stretches: runners pass the Philadelphia Museum of Art and its famous “Rocky” steps, glide along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, run through historic Old City and Society Hill, and cross the Schuylkill River with long riverfront stretches that offer skyline views. Aid stations, bands, and enthusiastic neighborhood spectators create an energetic, encouraging atmosphere; the race tends to feel both competitive and community-oriented, with pacers and corrals to support a range of pace goals and many runners aiming for personal bests. The Philadelphia Marathon course is USATF-certified and is recognized as a Boston Marathon qualifying course, making it a reliable choice for runners chasing qualification times. Whether chasing a BQ, a PR, or simply soaking in the city’s fall colors and history, runners can expect a well-organized race weekend with strong logistical support and a celebratory finish-line experience.
Explore the course
2025 · Marathon
Questions about the Philadelphia Marathon 2026
When is the Philadelphia Marathon 2026?
Sunday, November 22, 2026.
Where is the Philadelphia Marathon?
Philadelphia, PA, United States.
What time does the Philadelphia Marathon start?
The race starts at 7:00 AM, local time.
What is the Philadelphia Marathon time limit?
7 hours.
How do I enter the Philadelphia Marathon 2026?
The race is sold out. Ways in: Online Registration; Official Charity Partner Entry; Deferral credit redeemed from the prior year; Charity place through an official charity partner, with a fundraising commitment set by the charity.
How much does the Philadelphia Marathon 2026 cost?
Marathon: $151.89. Half Marathon: $125. 8K: $50.
When and where is packet pickup for the Philadelphia Marathon?
Nov 20, 2026: Free expo, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., Pennsylvania Convention Center Hall F (12th & Arch Streets), for packet pickup and race information. Nov 21, 2026: Free expo, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Pennsylvania Convention Center Hall F (12th & Arch Streets), for packet pickup and race information.
What is the Philadelphia Marathon elevation gain?
651 ft (198 m) of total elevation gain. Net elevation change: +10 ft (3 m). Moderate rolling hills.
What is the Philadelphia Marathon course like?
It passes Philadelphia Museum of Art, Benjamin Franklin Parkway and City Hall. Course map
What is the weather like at the Philadelphia Marathon?
Race-day temperatures are usually 2–13 °C (36–55 °F). Feels cold.
How many runners does the Philadelphia Marathon have?
12,381 participants. Large field.
Where are the Philadelphia Marathon results?
The official 2025 results are on the organizer's site. Official results
Is the Philadelphia Marathon a Boston qualifier?
Yes. This race is a certified Boston Marathon qualifying event.
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