Annually, the Windy City welcomes more than one million spectators to the Bank of America Chicago Marathon, and 2026 is expected to be no different.
To help people find their spots among the big crowds, the marathon has designated spots to cheer along the route.
From official cheer zones established by marathon organizers to unique events held in different neighborhoods throughout the route, spectators have plenty of viewing options to not miss out on anything the day of the race.
Official cheer zones
Bank of America Shamrock Shuffle Cheer Zone – 8K
This cheer zone is located in Lincoln Park at the 8K mark of the race. It is named after the Shamrock Shuffle 8K Run, which kicks off outdoor running season in Chicago every year in March.
Bank of America Chicago 13.1 Cheer Zone – Mile 13.1
Located at the halfway mark of the race in Chicago’s West Side, this is another option for spectators. It also makes mention to the Bank of America Chicago 13.1, held in June every year.
Charity Block Party – Mile 15
This block party celebrates participants who are running to fundraise for a chosen charity. It is located at Adams and Loomis Streets near Whitney Young High School.
Bank of America Cheer Zones
The banking institution hosts on-course cheer zones as well. There is one located at Mile 13, on North Wacker in front of the Bank of America Tower, and another close to the finish line, at Mile 26, near Michigan Avenue and Roosevelt Road.
Community Cheer Zones
These are cheer zones specifically hosted by a variety of run clubs, nonprofit organizations, neighborhood groups and more on race day.
Neighborhood-specific cheering zones
The Chicago Marathon runs through 29 of the city’s neighborhoods, with a lot of them hosting unique celebrations to help to cheer on runners.
On Northalsted, surrounding Miles 7 and 9, a block-party atmosphere with drag queens brings the neighborhood to life. Around Mile 19, Pilsen is known for having mariachi bands to support runners who pass by. In the case of Chinatown, near Mile 21, the neighborhood incorporates colorful lion dancers for the day.
East Side Viewing Area
On race day, spectators do not have access to Grant Park, as it is only accessible to participants with an event-issued bib number. Still, those who do not want to miss a moment at the finish line can purchase finish line viewing tickets here.
This will give them access to the exclusive spectator area along Columbus Drive in Grant Park. Ticketed guests enter the park at the intersection of Michigan Avenue and 11th Street, and youth 8 years and younger can access the area for free with a ticketed adult.
As the countdown for the Chicago Marathon continues, those attending the race on Oct. 11 can sign up here to receive notifications regarding updates on street closures.
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