While runners around the world are making their final preparations for the 2025 Bank of America Chicago Marathon, those looking to run Chicago’s series of iconic races next year can start signing up now.
Registration information was announced Thursday for the third annual Bank of America Chicago Distance Series, featuring the Shamrock Shuffle 8K run, the Chicago 13.1 and the marathon races.
The Distance Series connects each of the events, challenging runners to finish all three races in one year. Accomplishing the feat guarantees runners a spot in the 2027 Bank of America Chicago Marathon, along with an exclusive medal.
Registration for the Chicago 13.1 and the Shamrock Shuffle opens Thursday “with special discounted pricing,” according to organizers. Registration for the 2026 Chicago Marathon opens Oct. 21.
“We are thrilled to continue the Bank of America Chicago Distance Series in 2026,” Carey Pinkowski, executive race director of all three events, said in a statement. “The Distance Series has been successful due to the dedication of the running community, and we look forward to working with and welcoming returning and first time athletes alike throughout next year’s outdoor running season.”
Those interested in participating in the Distance Series are encouraged to register and apply early to ensure their spots in the races.
Registration details for the races can be found below:
2026 Bank of America Chicago Marathon application
The marathon will begin accepting applications for the 48th running of the event at 10 a.m. CT on Oct. 21. The registration window will close at 2 p.m. CT on Nov. 18.
There are two registration options: Non-guaranteed entry drawing and a guaranteed entry applications. The cost of an entry is $250 for United States residents and $260 for those residing outside of the United States.
Here are the requirements:
Guaranteed entry
In order to qualify for guaranteed entry, runners need to meet one of the follow:
- Time qualifiers who have met the event’s age-graded qualifying standards or qualify for the event’s High Performance Division.
- Legacy finishers who have completed the Chicago Marathon five or more times within the last 10 years.
- Registered participants who canceled their 2025 entry.
- Charity participants who are fundraising for an official charity as part of the Bank of America Chicago Marathon Charity Program.
- Runners participating with an official tour operator as part of the Bank of America Chicago Marathon Tour Operator Program.
- Runners who completed the 2025 Bank of America Chicago Distance Series by finishing the 2025 Shamrock Shuffle 8K Run, Chicago 13.1 and Chicago Marathon.
Non-guaranteed entry drawing
Those who do not qualify for a guaranteed entry can apply for the non-guaranteed entry drawing. Runners will be notified if their name was selected on Dec. 11.
The 2026 Bank of America Chicago Marathon will take place on Oct. 11, 2026. Additional details about the 2026 application are available at chicagomarathon.com/apply.
2026 Bank of America Chicago 13.1 registration
The fifth annual half marathon is set to take place on June 7, 2026 on Chicago’s West Side.
Those who sign up through Oct. 21, have access to a special $110 entry fee. That fee will increase to $120 at 11:59 p.m. CT on Oct. 21, 2025.
Find out more about the 2026 event here.
2026 Bank of America Shamrock Shuffle registration
The annual kickoff to outdoor running season, which also marks a major part of Chicago’s St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, steps off on March 22, 2026, in Chicago’s Loop. For those not ready to tackle the 8K Run there are also options for The Mile event on March 21, or the 2-Mile Walk on March 22. All three events will start and finish in Chicago’s Grant Park.
Registration for the 2026 events is now open.
Those who sign up for the 8K run by Oct. 21, have access to a special $51 entry fee in celebration of the Distance Series. That fee will increase to $56 at 11:59 p.m. CT on Oct. 21.
Registration for the 2-Mile Walk is $51. The entry fee for The Mile event is $25 and $15 for youth ages 8 to 12. More details can be found here.
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