The 2026 Bank of America Chicago Marathon takes place today, Sunday, October 11, 2026, with thousands of runners competing in one of the world’s most prestigious long-distance races.
The Chicago Marathon officially begins at 7:20 a.m. Central Time (8:20 a.m. Eastern Time) with the men’s wheelchair division. The elite professional runners are scheduled to start at 7:30 a.m. CT (8:30 a.m. ET).
Here is everything you need to know about the 2026 Chicago Marathon, including start times, running waves, television coverage and how to watch the race live.
What Time Does the Chicago Marathon Start Today?
The 2026 Chicago Marathon begins at 7:20 a.m. CT (8:20 a.m. ET) on Sunday, October 11.
The professional men’s and women’s elite runners are scheduled to begin at 7:30 a.m. CT, followed by the mass participation waves.
2026 Chicago Marathon Start Times and Schedule
| Event | Central Time (CT) | Eastern Time (ET) |
|---|---|---|
| Men’s Wheelchair | 7:20 a.m. | 8:20 a.m. |
| Women’s Wheelchair | 7:21 a.m. | 8:21 a.m. |
| Handcycle | 7:23 a.m. | 8:23 a.m. |
| Elite Professional Runners | 7:30 a.m. | 8:30 a.m. |
| Wave 1 | 7:35 a.m. | 8:35 a.m. |
| Wave 2 | 8:00 a.m. | 9:00 a.m. |
| Wave 3 | 8:35 a.m. | 9:35 a.m. |
All times are listed in Central Daylight Time and Eastern Daylight Time.
Where to Watch the 2026 Chicago Marathon Live
Fans looking to watch the 2026 Chicago Marathon can follow live television and streaming coverage.
2026 Chicago Marathon TV and Streaming Information:
- Date: Sunday, October 11, 2026
- TV Channel: NBC 5 Chicago
- Streaming: NBC Chicago and NBC Sports NOW channels on Peacock
- Broadcast Start: 8:00 a.m. ET (7:00 a.m. CT)
- Race Start: 8:20 a.m. ET (7:20 a.m. CT)
- Elite Runners Start: 8:30 a.m. ET (7:30 a.m. CT)
Viewers should check local listings and streaming availability for coverage in their area.
Where Does the Chicago Marathon Start and Finish?
The Chicago Marathon starts and finishes in Grant Park in downtown Chicago, Illinois.
The 26.2-mile course takes runners through numerous Chicago neighborhoods, passing some of the city’s most recognizable landmarks.
The race is known for its relatively flat and fast course, making it a popular destination for elite athletes seeking personal bests and world-record performances.
How Long Is the Chicago Marathon?
The Chicago Marathon covers the traditional marathon distance of 26.2 miles (42.195 kilometers).
Elite professional runners typically complete the race in just over two hours, while recreational participants may take several hours to finish.
The race attracts professional athletes, wheelchair competitors and runners from around the world.
Is the Chicago Marathon Today?
Yes. The 2026 Chicago Marathon is scheduled for Sunday, October 11, 2026.
The event is part of the Abbott World Marathon Majors series, which features some of the world’s most prestigious marathon competitions.
Chicago’s fast course and large international field make the race one of the most anticipated events on the annual running calendar.
What Time Do the Elite Runners Start the Chicago Marathon?
The elite professional runners begin at 7:30 a.m. Central Time (8:30 a.m. Eastern Time).
This is the main start time for viewers interested in watching the professional men’s and women’s marathon competition.
The wheelchair divisions begin several minutes earlier, starting at 7:20 a.m. CT.
2026 Chicago Marathon: Key Information
- Event: 2026 Bank of America Chicago Marathon
- Date: Sunday, October 11, 2026
- Location: Chicago, Illinois
- Starting Location: Grant Park
- Distance: 26.2 miles
- First Race Start: 7:20 a.m. CT / 8:20 a.m. ET
- Elite Start: 7:30 a.m. CT / 8:30 a.m. ET
- TV Coverage: NBC 5 Chicago
- Streaming: Peacock (NBC Chicago and NBC Sports NOW channels)
Final Thoughts
The 2026 Chicago Marathon starts today at 7:20 a.m. CT (8:20 a.m. ET), with the elite professional runners beginning at 7:30 a.m. CT (8:30 a.m. ET).
Fans wanting to watch the professional race should tune in ahead of the elite starting time, while those following friends or family members should check their assigned starting wave.
With thousands of participants, international elite athletes and a fast 26.2-mile course, the Chicago Marathon remains one of the premier events in distance running.