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Chicago Marathon 2026

Complete this World Marathon Major for the causes that need it most.

2026 sold out. Enquire now for 2027

  • US Chicago
  • 11 October 2026
  • Marathon
Chicago Marathon 2026
Why run it?

Part of the World Marathon Majors, running the Bank of America Chicago Marathon is the pinnacle of achievement for elite athletes and everyday runners alike. The race starts and finishes in Grant Park, and travels through one of the world’s most magnificent cities. With ideal weather conditions, dry with highs of 67°F (19°C), this marathon is an unmissable and highly in-demand event.

Please note, as realbuzz is an international partner of the Bank of America Chicago Marathon, we will not be able to offer places to US residents. 

What's it like to run?

Runners:
40000
Surface:
Road
Start:
07:30
Course:
Flat & Fast
Temp:
10-19°C
Distance:
Marathon

How to Enter

Our events are sell-out races, so places are limited and will be made available on a first come first serve basis.
Don’t miss out, apply today in three simple steps:
Step 1
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Choose your charity and apply

Fill out a simple form to apply to join their team (it’s free to apply!)
Step 2
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Your charity will get in touch

once they’ve reviewed your application to let you know next steps.
Step 3
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Start Fundraising

If you get accepted onto the team, it's time to start fundraising. If not, you can apply to run for a different charity.
Can’t see your charity on the list? Get in touch here.

Charity partners you can support in this event include

Dundalk Dog Rescue
Dundalk Dog Rescue
Help us help them because every dog deserves a loving family.
Make-A-Wish UK
Make-A-Wish UK
Make-A-Wish UK grant life-changing wishes to critically ill children. When it comes to their dreams, they deserve to wish for more than a life defined by their illness.
Claire House Children's Hospice
Claire House Children's Hospice
Helping seriously & terminally ill children live life to the full.
Nicholls Spinal Injury Foundation
Nicholls Spinal Injury Foundation
Funding research which could potentially lead to breakthrough treatment for spinal injury
Children in Crossfire
Children in Crossfire
Responding to the rights and needs of children and young people caught in the crossfire.
Cancer Research Wales
Cancer Research Wales
Funding and pioneering world class cancer research in Wales.
Sandy Bear Children's Bereavement Charity
Sandy Bear Children's Bereavement Charity
Providing services to all children and young people who have, or who are likely to suffer a bereavement in Wales.
Service Dogs UK
Service Dogs UK
We train and provide assistance dogs from rescue for members of the armed forces and emergency services suffering with PTSD.
The Skye High Foundation
The Skye High Foundation
Supporting families during and after the loss of a twin, triplet, or multiples.
Southern Area Hospice Services
Southern Area Hospice Services
Providing care free of charge to people who are living with cancer and other life-limiting illnesses.
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FAQs

Whether you’re lacing up for your first race or returning for another year, we want you to feel prepared and inspired. Here you’ll find everything you need to know about signing up, fundraising, and making an impact.
View all FAQs
  • Running for charity means taking part in an official race while committing to raise money to a set level (fundraising target) for a chosen cause. Because you're committed to fundraising, you can get guaranteed entry subject to completing a certain amount of fundraising, even if your chosen event is sold out for general entry, plus expert fundraising support to help you reach your target.

  • It's simple. Choose your distance, pick your event and select the charity you'd like to support. Once you've secured your place - either by signing up for an individual entry straight away or applying for a team if your charity has an official team in your chosen event - you'll receive everything you need to prepare, fundraise, and take on race day with confidence.

  • Not at all! Charity runs are open to all abilities, from complete beginners to seasoned marathoners. Whether you’re aiming for your first 10K or a major marathon, we’ll provide training tips and fundraising advice to help you succeed. With realbuzz, you can choose from marathons, half marathons, shorter distances such as 10ks and 10 miles, and team relay races.  
  • There will be a fundraising target, based on the event you choose, which you'll need to commit to as part of securing your place. When you sign up, you'll receive info about your chosen charity's preferred fundraising platform so you can set up your fundraising page. 100% of your fundraising goes to your charity, usually directly through the fundraising platform you're using.