New York City Marathon — A Celebration of Sport, Strength, and Unity

The New York City Marathon is one of the largest and most celebrated running events in the world, held annually on the first Sunday of November. What began in 1970 as a small race with just 127 entrants looping around Central Park has transformed into an international spectacle attracting over 50,000 finishers and nearly 2 million spectators each year.

The Course — A Tour of New York’s Heart

The marathon’s 26.2-mile (42.195 km) course is famous for taking runners on a journey through all five boroughs of the city — Staten Island, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Manhattan. Each neighborhood offers its own unique energy: from the roaring cheers of Brooklyn crowds to the scenic bridges connecting boroughs, and the emotional final miles in Central Park. The Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge marks the challenging but exhilarating start, while the finish line in Central Park provides a triumphant and unforgettable ending.

More Than Just a Race

The NYC Marathon is not solely about speed or competition — it’s a platform for personal achievement, cultural connection, and philanthropy. Thousands of runners participate to raise funds for charities, collectively generating over $40 million annually for causes ranging from medical research to youth programs. Many run in honor of loved ones or as part of recovery journeys, turning the race into a deeply personal milestone.

A Truly Global Event

With participants from more than 130 countries, the marathon has become a symbol of unity and cultural exchange. Spectators line the streets waving flags, playing music, and offering words of encouragement in countless languages. This mix of traditions transforms the city into one of the most diverse and supportive sporting stages in the world.

Inspiring Stories

Every year, the race is filled with stories that inspire: athletes with disabilities competing alongside able-bodied runners, cancer survivors crossing the finish line, and first-time marathoners discovering new strengths. These moments remind the world that the marathon is as much about resilience as it is about physical endurance.

An Icon of Determination

The New York City Marathon embodies perseverance, community, and celebration. Whether you are an elite runner chasing records, a charity runner making a difference, or a supporter cheering from the sidelines, the event captures the spirit of possibility. It proves that when people from all walks of life come together with a shared goal, they can achieve extraordinary things — one step at a time.