FAQs

APPLICATION PROCESS/REGISTRATION

  • I am registered, but cannot participate. Can I transfer my registration/bib to someone else?
    No, as noted in the application waiver, registrations/bibs are non-transferable and cannot be transferred from one person to another.
  • What are the age requirements for participation in a Philadelphia Marathon event?
    The Philadelphia Marathon has adopted the following age participation policies by event distance: 16 and older for the Marathon; 14 and older for the Half Marathon; 12 and older for the Rothman Institute 8k; and, 4-12 for the Arctic Ease Kids Fun Run. All youth race participants under the age of 18 must have parent or guardian's signed authorization on the official event application and waiver. Be prepared to provide proof of age when picking up a minor's race packet.
  • May I register on race day?
    No. There is no race day registration or packet pick-up for the Marathon, Half Marathon or Rothman Institute 8K.
  • May I switch my registration from one race to another?
    Yes, as long as you do so before September 30th AND SPACE IS AVAILABLE IN THAT EVENT. A $12 administrative fee plus the additional cost for the event, if applicable, is charged to participants who wish to switch to another Philadelphia Marathon event. NO REFUNDS WILL BE ISSUED. To make your switch please click here.
  • Can a friend pick up my packet for me?
    Yes. Your friend will need to bring a hard copy of your final confirmation with your signature in order to retrieve your packet. Your friend must show his or her state-issued photo ID in order to pick up your packet.
  • I am entered in the race but recently incurred an injury and will be unable to compete. Can I defer my participation to next year?
    No. We do not offer deferments or refunds.
  • How many participants do you expect? Do you expect to reach the maximum field size?
    This year, we expect to reach our maximum field size of 25,000, so please register early.
  • Do I need a qualifying time to enter the Philadelphia Marathon?
    No.
  • Is the Philadelphia Marathon a qualifying race to the Boston Marathon?
    Yes.
  • Are there Corporate Teams or Team Relays?
    No, there are no team relays.
  • Is the Marathon walker-friendly?
    Yes. The Philadelphia Marathon is open to all competitors, with few restrictions. Please note that all participants must maintain a 16-minute per mile pace throughout the course.
  • Why didn't I receive a registration confirmation email?
    Based on your system's personal set up, it is not uncommon that confirmation emails get blocked, go to your SPAM folder, or end up in your junk mail. You can check your registration via the "Registration Confirmation" button on the Active registration page or click on the link below.
    Check if I'm Registered »

RACE DAY

  • I do not have a bib number. Can I run the race as an unofficial entrant?
    No. Race amenities provided along the course, including medical assistance, fluid replenishment stations and traffic safety concerns are based on the exact number of officially-entered competitors. Any addition to this number by way of unregistered participants will adversely affect the races. Unregistered participants will be removed from the course.
  • What are the locations for the Port-a-johns?
    Port-a-johns are located at the start/finish line area. Additionally, Port-a-johns will be located at each water stop on the course.
  • What are the types and where are the locations for the replacement fluids?
    Water stops will be set up at the race start and finish, and throughout the length of the course at the following locations:
    • Starting Line at Eakins Oval
    • Columbus Blvd & Race Street—Mile 2.2
    • Washington Avenue & Water Street—Mile 3.7
    • 6th & Walnut Streets—Mile 5.1
    • 31st & Chestnut Streets—Mile 7.1
    • 34th Street & Fairmount Avenue—Mile 8.3
    • West Memorial Hall Drive, Please Touch Museum—Mile 9.8
    • Disabled Rowers' Boathouse, Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive & Black Road—Mile 11.1
    • Kelly Drive & Sedgley Avenue—Miles 13.5 & 25.4
    • Kelly Drive & Fountain Green—Miles 14.7 & 24.4
    • Kelly Drive & Ferry Street—Miles 16.9 & 22.2
    • Main Street & Ridge Avenue—Miles 18.4 & 21.1
    • Main & Cotton Streets, Winnie's LeBus—Miles 19.5 & 20
    • Finish Line

    Gatorade replacement fluid will be offered along with water, beginning at Mile 2.2. The lemon-lime flavored Gatorade will be served in green colored cups.

    Additionally, CLIF SHOTS will be available at miles 9.8, 16.9 and 22.2.

    Fluid station locations will be finalized with your pre-race confirmation email. Be sure to check back for changes.

  • What is the average Temp at Start Time?
    Approximately 45°F/7.2°C at start time and at the finish about 54°F/12°C.
  • Can I use a baby jogger, roller blades, scooter or bike?
    No. These items are all strictly prohibited from the race course.
  • What are the different divisions of the Philadelphia Marathon that receive awards?
    Please check the page for your specific race on this website for specific award and prize information.
  • Has the date changed for the Rothman Institute 8K?
    Yes! Last year, we began holding The Rothman Institute 8K on Saturday, to huge success. This year, the race will be held on Saturday, November 19 at 7:30 a.m. The race start will be in the Philadelphia Museum of Art area. Specific location details will be provided once the course is confirmed.
  • How long will the finish be open for the Marathon + Half Marathon?
    The finish will be open for 7 hours.
  • How can I review results at the end of the race?
    Online information is updated as the race progresses. The race results will be posted online 24 hours from the time of the final finisher.
  • Can I use headphones or earbuds?
    The rule prohibiting headphones is no longer enforced by USATF; however, the Philadelphia Marathon recommends you do not wear them during the race. Runners’ ability to hear and react to situations and directions given by race officials is very important. Your safety is always our topmost concern.
  • Is there a course time limit for participants?
    Yes. You must maintain a 16-minute mile. For marathon participants, you will only be allowed to proceed past the Half Marathon point if you have reached it within the 16-minute-per-mile time frame. If you have not reached that point during the prescribed time, you will be guided to finish at the Half Marathon line.

ABOUT PHILADELPHIA

  • While I'm in Philadelphia, I'd like to visit different parts of the city. How do I get to South Philadelphia? Fairmount? Old City? Manayunk?
    One of the things that makes Philadelphia great is its unique neighborhoods. Information on tours and itineraries are available at www.visitphilly.com. For those who prefer to travel on their own, contact SEPTA, the city's public transportation system at (215) 580-7800 or check out schedules at www.septa.org.
  • Is there late check-out at the hotels?
    Many hotels in Philadelphia offer special rates for the Marathon weekend, but each has its own policies on check-in/check-out times. Please check with your hotel.
  • Can you recommend a good restaurant?
    Philadelphia has some of the best dining in the world, where you can find everything from cheesesteaks to French gourmet. You can review information about many of Philadelphia's fine restaurants at www.visitphilly.com.

FOR SPECTATORS, PRESS, VENDORS AND SHOPPERS

  • I am not running but want to know some information about watching the race.
    The Rothman Institute 8K race is being held on Saturday, November 19 and begins at 7:30 a.m. The Marathon + Half Marathon races begin on Sunday, November 20 at 7:00 a.m. near the Philadelphia Museum of Art at 22nd Street & Benjamin Franklin Parkway. There is plenty of room for spectators along the street at the start, or in the bleachers along the finish line. We will also have 20+ cheer zones along the course. Check back closer to race day for a complete list of Cheer Zone locations.
  • I'm with the press. Can I interview the winner of the race?
    Yes. Members of the press should email Randy.Giancaterino@phila.gov after October 1st to request credentials. On race day, visit the media tent at Eakins Oval to pick up the press pass and, if you like, be escorted to meet the winners. You are also welcome to download photos and press releases from the media page.
  • How can I obtain a booth at the Health + Fitness Expo or insert an item into the runners' bags?
    Click here for more information on how to become a vendor or exhibitor at the Health + Fitness Expo.
  • Where can I buy official Philadelphia Marathon sweatshirts, t-shirts, and other apparel?
    Visit the website of the official Philadelphia Marathon merchandise partner at Endurafit.com.
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