Are you interested in running the Bank of America Chicago Marathon in October of 2026? Now is your chance to train and run for an amazing cause, Friends of the Chicago River.

Apply to support Friends, build your endurance, accomplish something wonderful, and see the gorgeous Chicago River as you run the 26.2 mile course. 

Download Waiver 

Interested? Below are the steps to take.

Step 1: Download and fill out the waiver and email it to Annie Hanrahan ahanrahan@chicagoriver.org to express your interest.

Step 2: Please submit the above to be considered for the Friends of the Chicago River Bank of America Chicago Marathon Charity Team. There are limited spaces available, so it is advised to apply as soon as possible. If there is a slot available after the completed steps up to this point, Annie will send you information on how to register for the marathon. You must complete all steps to be officially on the team. Participants must cover the initial registration fee. Friends will reimburse your registration fee if all fundraising minimums are met by the November 1, 2026 fundraising deadline.

Step 3: Friends will send you information to create a fundraising webpage. Start your training plan!

Key Dates

Bank of America Chicago Marathon: Sunday, October 11, 2026

• October 21, 2025 Bank of America Chicago Marathon (BACM) application opens at 10:00 a.m. CST. 
• Applications must be received by 10 a.m. February 28, 2026 in order to be considered for one of Friends of the Chicago River's guaranteed entry into the 2026 Bank of America Chicago Marathon.
• Applicants make a commitment to fundraise a minimum $2,200
• Application Period Closes: February 28, 2026 or until all slots are filled. 

All Friends BACM participants are committing to the following furndraising deadlines. This commitment is not transferable for any circumstance.

First Fundraising Deadline: September 1, 2026 (10% of fundraising target)

Second Fundraising Deadline: October 1, 2026 (20% of fundraising target)

Final Fundraising Deadline: November 1, 2026 (100% of fundraising target)