New York City Marathon

The New York City Marathon is one of the world’s most iconic and prestigious long-distance races. Held annually on the first Sunday of November, it attracts over 50,000 runners from all walks of life, including elite athletes, amateurs, and charity participants. The 26.2-mile course winds through all five boroughs of New York City—Staten Island, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Manhattan—showcasing the city’s diverse neighborhoods, famous landmarks, and vibrant energy.

The race starts on the Staten Island side of the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, offering stunning skyline views before runners head into Brooklyn. As participants weave through the streets of Queens, they cross the Queensboro Bridge into Manhattan, where the electric atmosphere of First Avenue greets them with crowds of cheering spectators. A brief stint in the Bronx leads them back into Manhattan, where they make their way toward the final stretch in Central Park.

The New York City Marathon is a test of endurance and a celebration of the city’s spirit. With live music, enthusiastic crowds, and an unbeatable backdrop, it’s a bucket-list race for runners worldwide. Organized by the New York Road Runners (NYRR), the event raises millions for charity each year, and its massive international following cements its reputation as one of the most thrilling marathon experiences on the planet.