The New York City Marathon returns this November, embodying the city’s energy and spirit over an iconic 26.2-mile journey. Celebrating its 53rd year, this renowned race promises incredible views, unflagging crowd support, and challenging terrain. Here’s an all-inclusive guide to the event, from bib collection and start times to race-day navigation and transportation.
What Makes the NYC Marathon Special?
Organized by the New York Road Runners (NYRR), the New York City Marathon is a global event, attracting runners from around the world since 1970. As part of the Abbott World Marathon Majors series, it’s the final race on the year’s global marathon calendar. With over 51,000 finishers from 148 nations in 2023, it’s a celebration of endurance and international unity.
Race Day for 2024
Mark your calendars for Sunday, November 3, 2024.
Where to Pick Up Your Bib
Runners must collect their race bibs in person at the New York City Marathon Expo at the Jacob Javits Convention Center, located at 11th Avenue and West 36th Street, Manhattan. Remember to reserve a pickup time through your NYRR account before 4:00 p.m. ET on Saturday, November 2. The expo hours for bib pickup are:
- Thursday, October 31: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
- Friday, November 1: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
- Saturday, November 2: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Race Start Schedule
Various start times are designated for different groups to ensure a smooth experience:
- 8:00 a.m. – Wheelchair athletes
- 8:22 a.m. – Handcyclists and specific para-athletes
- 8:40 a.m. – Elite women’s start
- 9:05 a.m. – Elite men and mass start
Mass-participation runners are organized into five waves, each further divided by colored corrals (blue, orange, or pink). Waves start at 35-minute intervals, with the final wave setting off at 11:30 a.m.
Daylight Saving Time Alert: The time will “fall back” an hour at 2 a.m. on race day, so be sure to set clocks accordingly.
Marathon Start Location
Runners will begin at Fort Wadsworth on Staten Island, where the starting villages are organized by bib color. Volunteers and signs will be available to guide you. Official race transportation options, including the Staten Island Ferry and designated bus routes, are available to those who registered by the September 10 deadline. Starting area amenities include portable toilets, snacks, coffee, water, and Gatorade.
Bag Drop and Pickup Options
If you registered for bag drop by the September 10 cutoff, you can check in your bag at Rumsey Playfield in Central Park on November 1 and November 2, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Your bag will be available for pickup after the race near Central Park West, between West 70th and West 71st Streets. There is no bag check at the starting line on race day.
Course Details and Route Map
The New York City Marathon route showcases all five boroughs, beginning on Staten Island, crossing the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge into Brooklyn, and continuing northward through Queens, Manhattan, and the Bronx before finishing in Central Park. Along the way, runners enjoy the sights and sounds of neighborhoods throughout the city, guided by cheering fans and scenic views.
Hydration and Nutrition Stations
Hydration stations with water and Gatorade are available at every mile from Mile 3 through Mile 25, except at Miles 5, 7, and 9. Runners will also find Science in Sport energy gels at Miles 12 and 18, with bananas provided at Mile 21 to support endurance through the final stretch.
Race Cut-Off Times
A seven-hour pace is maintained for those needing to walk or slow their pace. Sweep buses follow the route at a 16-minute-per-mile pace starting after the final wave, and participants who need to leave the race can be transported to the finish area. The official race time cutoff is 10 p.m.
Deferring Your Entry
If you can’t participate this year, you may defer your entry until 2025 by canceling through your NYRR account by midnight on Saturday, November 2. Note that race fees are non-refundable, though a deferral does guarantee entry for the following year.
Registering for the 2025 Race
Due to high demand, entry for 2025 will likely open in early 2025, with spots allocated through a lottery. Additional entry routes include meeting time qualifications, joining an official charity, or securing a spot through international tour operators. NYC residents can also earn a guaranteed entry through the 9+1 program, completing nine NYRR races and volunteering at one event within a calendar year.
Whether running to compete or simply to experience the excitement, the 2024 New York City Marathon offers an unforgettable day in the heart of one of the world’s most dynamic cities.
