Question 1

What are the age requirements for participation in the TIAA Philadelphia Marathon, Dietz & Watson Philadelphia Half Marathon, Rothman Orthopaedics 8K or Philadelphia Kids Run?

Accepted Answer

The Philadelphia Marathon Weekend has adopted the following age participation policies by event distance:16 and older for the TIAA Philadelphia Marathon;14 and older for the Dietz & Watson Philadelphia Half Marathon;(new!) 11 and older for the Rothman Orthopaedics 8K;(new!) 4 through 10 for the Philadelphia Kids RunAll youth race participants under the age of 18 must have parent or guardian’s signed authorization on the official event application and waiver.Be prepared to provide proof of age when picking up a minor’s race packet.

Question 2

Do I need to qualify to participate in a Philadelphia Marathon Weekend event?

Accepted Answer

No. There is no qualifier time needed to run in any event. You must maintain a 16 minute per mile pace.

Question 3

Will there be a VIP package offered this year to athletes?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A limited number of packages are available. You can learn more on each of our event pages.

Question 4

I need to defer my registration. What are the deadlines and what do I need to do?

Accepted Answer

To defer to another year, or to claim a deferral from last year’s race, go to our deferral page (www.philadelphiamarathon.com/info/deferral-transfer-instructions/)Runners registered with guaranteed entry through a charity will need approval before a deferral is accepted.

Question 5

I ordered an itab. When will it arrive?

Accepted Answer

Your itab should arrive 5-7 weeks after race weekend.

Question 6

Are there team relays?

Accepted Answer

There are no team relays in any of the events.

Question 7

Is the Marathon walker-friendly?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The Philadelphia Marathon Weekend is open to all competitors, with few restrictions. Please note that all participants must maintain a 16-minute per mile pace throughout the course.

Question 8

I’d like to defer my 2026 registration. How do I do that?

Accepted Answer

Visit our deferral page. Please note there will be an administrative fee for deferrals. The deadline for deferrals is November 1.All 2026 deferrals to 2027 must be redeemed by December 31, 2026 (note new date!) or you will forfeit your 2026 deferral credit.Race deferrals are valid for the following year’s event only. You can only defer one time.

Question 9

How can I confirm my registration in a Philadelphia Marathon Weekend event?

Accepted Answer

You can confirm your registration by logging in to your registration page on Race Roster or by going to registration confirmation tool.

Question 10

Are the Philadelphia Marathon Weekend events sanctioned by USATF? Are the courses USATF certified?

Accepted Answer

The Philadelphia Marathon Weekend Events (TIAA Philadelphia Marathon, Dietz & Watson Philadelphia Half Marathon and Rothman Orthopaedics 8K) are USATF sanctioned and course-certified.

Question 11

What is the Philadelphia Marathon Weekend’s policy towards non-binary athletes?

Accepted Answer

The Philadelphia Marathon Weekend has non-binary categories in the Open Division of all three races. Equal prize money will be awarded to the top three finishers in the male, female, and non-binary categories of the Open Division.

Question 12

I purchased Enhanced Refund Protection Program during registration and can no longer participate in the race. What do I need to do to obtain a refund on my registration fee?

Accepted Answer

If you meet the conditions for a refund, you can begin the process by going to requestmyrefund.com/enhancedrefundprogram/refund.Note that you can only purchase refund protection (“cancellation insurance”) during registration. To learn more about the program, go here.This insurance is offered by a third party provider at the time of registration and you should receive communications separately by the provider.

Question 13

If I register for two (or more) 2026 Philadelphia Marathon Weekend events separately, will I still receive a challenge medal?

Accepted Answer

Registering for two or more events does not automatically enter you into a challenge (Patriot, Independence, Liberty Bell or Freedom). To participate in a Philadelphia Marathon Weekend challenge and to receive the medal, you must have been registered for a challenge and confirmed by July 17, 2026. Anyone not confirmed by that date will not be scored as a challenge participant, even if they are running two or more events.

Question 14

Can I change my corral?

Accepted Answer

You cannot change your corral at the expo, but you can change your estimated finishing time up until October 19 (note revised date!), which will determine your corral placement.Athletes are free to move back to a slower corral as desired. No official action is needed.

Question 15

I can no longer attend the Philadelphia Marathon Weekend Expo presented by DryWater to pick up my bib. Can it be sent by mail?

Accepted Answer

No. We do not offer race packet mailing.

Question 16

Can someone else pick up my bib for me?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Bring your government-issued photo ID OR your confirmation email. A government issued ID is needed to verify the athlete’s registered name only, and to make sure that the name on the athlete’s ID matches that on the athlete’s registration. The name registered may vary from bib name. We are verifying registered name only.If a representative is picking up your race materials, you must provide them with your confirmation email and a copy of your government-issued photo ID (a copy of your ID is sufficient). They will also need to show their own government-issued photo ID.

Question 17

Will you be doing a shoe donation program this year?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we will have a shoe donation program for charity this year.Bring your gently used or new shoes including running, casual, dress, adult, and children’s sneakers to the Packet Pickup/Health & Fitness Expo on November 20th and 21st at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, Hall F.The shoe collection bins will be located at the entrance to the expo and at the Students Run Philly Style booth.Your new or gently used shoes will be distributed to communities in need both here in the USA and throughout the world.In addition to bringing sneakers to those in need, a donation will be made to Stand Up 2 Cancer and Students Run Philly Style for each bin of shoes collected. Thanks for your support.

Question 18

Can I pick up my bib and t-shirt on event morning?

Accepted Answer

No. There is no bib or t-shirt pickup on event morning for any race. Challenges must pick up all bibs on Friday, November 20.Please see below for deadlines on when and where you can pick up your bib:TIAA Philadelphia Marathon: You MUST pick up your bib on Friday or Saturday at the Health and Fitness Expo. There is NO PACKET PICKUP AT THE START LINE.Dietz & Watson Philadelphia Half Marathon: You MUST pick up your bib on Friday at the Health and Fitness Expo. There is NO PACKET PICKUP AT THE START LINE.Rothman Orthopaedics 8K: We strongly recommend you pick up your bib on Friday at the Health and Fitness Expo. There is NO PACKET PICKUP AT THE START LINE. (We strongly discourage Saturday bib pickup due to the distance from the expo to the start line and the long security lines).Philadelphia Kid’s Run: Participants can pick up the bib and t-shirt on Friday at the Health and Fitness Expo (noon to 9 p.m.). Bibs and t-shirts can be picked up on Saturday (9 a.m. to 1 p.m.) and Sunday (starting at 8 a.m.) at Eakins Oval Circle (22nd Street & Benjamin Franklin Parkway).For the challenges (Patriot, Independence, Liberty Bell and Freedom) – You MUST pick up your bib on Friday at the Health and Fitness Expo. There is NO PACKET PICKUP AT THE START LINE.

Question 19

What items are prohibited?

Accepted Answer

Prohibited itemsWeapons and contraband of any kind (regardless of permitting). This will include firearms, knives, pepper spray, etc. NOTE: Right-to-Carry permits will not be honored and weapons will not be permitted into the venue.Fireworks (includes flammable liquids, fuels or explosives)SuitcasesBulky items or packages larger than 12”x12”x6”Containers (glass, aluminum or otherwise) that can hold more than 1 liter of liquid. (Sealed water bottles & sealed baby bottles are permitted). NOTE: NO glass containers of any type/size are permitted!AlcoholIllegal drugs or illicit substances of any kindBicycles or scootersFacial costume masks of any kind (except religious headwear).NOTE: Persons entering the secured zone may wear a COVID prevention mask covering both their nose and mouth. Security personnel will NOT deny entry to persons wearing this mask.Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS/Drones)Selfie sticksProps (includes flagpoles, military or fire gear, sporting equipment or other hard objects)Coolers (hard sided; plastic, metal, etc.). NOTE: Soft sided coolers ARE PERMITTED! Must be hand searched at the entry gate.Large umbrellas (i.e. Beach Umbrellas)Animals or reptiles (Exception: ADA defined service animals (only dogs; refer to ADA fact sheet) are permitted for spectators only. No animals are allowed on the race course(s)).Discouraged itemsLarge blankets, comforters or sleeping bagsBackpacks, handbags or shoulder bags of any kind (clear plastic participant bags are permitted)Action camerasNOTE: All persons entering this venue will be screened via walk-through magnetometers, and/or by security agents equipped with hand-held magnetometers.NOTE: All items being carried into the venue will be thoroughly searched by security agents at each checkpoint.(04/07/2025)

Question 20

I do not have a bib number. Can I run the race as an unofficial entrant?

Accepted Answer

No. Unregistered participants will be removed from the course.

Question 21

What is the location of the start line?

Accepted Answer

The start line for both the TIAA Philadelphia Marathon and Dietz & Watson Philadelphia Half Marathon will be on the 2200 block of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, just east of Eakins Oval.The start line of the Rothman Orthopaedics 8K will be at 25th Street & Kelly Drive (near the Philadelphia Museum of Art).The start line of the Philadelphia Kid’s Run will be in front of the Philadelphia Art Museum on Kelly Drive.

Question 22

Will there be warming tents to stand in before and after the race?

Accepted Answer

Yes, there will be warming tents at the start and finish area on both Saturday and Sunday starting at 5:00 a.m.

Question 23

Will there be a post-race festival?

Accepted Answer

Yes. More details will be provided closer to race weekend.

Question 24

Will there be a pace team?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The Philadelphia Marathon Weekend has partnered with our friends at Philadelphia Runner (PR) to help you hit your race goals.Pace groups are free to join, simply hop in behind one of our 30 Pace Groups at the TIAA Philadelphia Marathon, the Dietz & Watson Philadelphia Half Marathon and/or the Rothman Orthopaedics 8K to achieve your ideal finish time.TIAA Philadelphia Marathon: 2:50, 3 hours, 3:10, 3:20, 3:30, 3:40, 3:50, 4 hours, 4:10, 4:20, 4:30, 4:40, 4:50, 5 hours, 5:15 and 5:30.Dietz & Watson Philadelphia Half Marathon: 1:30, 1:40, 1:50, 2 hours, 2:10, 2:20, 2:30, 2:45, 3 hoursRothman Orthopaedics 8K: 7 minute mile, 8 minute mile, 9 minute mile, 10 minute mile, 11 minute mile, 12 minute mile and 13 minute mile (new!)

Question 25

How long will the finish be open for the TIAA Philadelphia Marathon?

Accepted Answer

The finish will be open for 7 hours for the full marathon, 3-1/2 hours for the half marathon and 80 minutes for the 8K. Athletes are expected to maintain a 16 minute per mile pace.

Question 26

Can I use headphones or earbuds?

Accepted Answer

The rule prohibiting headphones is no longer enforced by USATF; however, the Philadelphia Marathon Weekend recommends you do not wear them during the race. Athletes’ ability to hear and react to situations and directions given by race officials is very important. Your safety is always our topmost concern.

Question 27

Can I wear a costume during the race?

Accepted Answer

When it comes to costumes, we ask that you keep the safety of yourself and others in mind.If your costume is questionable or offensive to others, we reserve the right to either have you change into something more appropriate or remove you from the event.All costumes must also adhere to the Philadelphia Marathon Weekend’s security restrictions – no large backpacks or bags of any kind will be allowed on the course.

Question 28

Will there by energy gels at the Dietz & Watson Philadelphia Half Marathon?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we will have e-Gel Electrolyte Energy Gel by Crank Sports available ahead of fluid station 4 (approximately mile 7.5).Nutritional information: 37grams of carbs (150 calories), 230mg of sodium and 85mg of potassium.On-course flavors include Radical Raspberry, Juicy Watermelon, Mountain Rush, Cherry Bomb and Tropical Blast.More info at www.cranksports.com/egel/To start training, order direct from cranksports.com and use discount code: RUNPHILADELPHIA

Question 29

Will there by energy gels at the TIAA Philadelphia Marathon?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we will have e-Gel Electrolyte Energy Gel by Crank Sports at ahead of station 5 (approximately past mile 10), station 9 (approximately mile 17.7) and on the other side at station 14 (approximately mile 22.4) for the TIAA Philadelphia MarathonNutritional information: 37grams of carbs (150 calories), 230mg of sodium and 85mg of potassium.On-course flavors include Radical Raspberry, Juicy Watermelon, Mountain Rush, Cherry Bomb and Tropical Blast.More info at www.cranksports.com/egel/To start training, order direct from cranksports.com and use discount code: RUNPHILADELPHIA

Question 30

What corral will I be in?

Accepted Answer

Corral assignments are based on the finish time you submitted during registration.2026 information will come out in November 2026.

Question 31

Is there a limit on the number of unopened water bottles will be allowed through security?

Accepted Answer

Yes. One bottle (maximum of 16 fl oz). We have purified fillable water monsters at the start.

Question 32

Can I wear an action camera during the Philadelphia Marathon Weekend?

Accepted Answer

For the safety of both participants and spectators, the Philadelphia Marathon Weekend discourages the use of action cameras while on the course. Selfie sticks are prohibited.

Question 33

Is there gear check?

Accepted Answer

Yes. More details will be provided closer to race weekend.

Question 34

What happens to discarded clothing at the race start?

Accepted Answer

All items discarded will be gathered and donated to the Salvation Army.

Question 35

Where can I find the race course maps for each event?

Accepted Answer

To view the race course maps and water/fluid stations, go to the event pages.

Question 36

How does gear check work?

Accepted Answer

Gear CheckGear check is provided free of charge located on the southside of Eakins Oval.Only clear bags (such as the runner bag we are providing) will be accepted.Be sure to affixed the event-issued gear check tag (top of bib tear-off strip) to your bag.Also be sure to enclose complete contact information inside your race bag in case we need to contact you on where you can pick up your bag after race weekend.The Philadelphia Marathon Weekend is not responsible for any unclaimed, stolen, or lost items.Gear check hours:Saturday, November 21 – Dietz & Watson Philadelphia Half Marathon and Rothman Orthopaedics 8k (5:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.)Sunday, November 22 – TIAA Philadelphia Marathon (5:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.)

Question 37

Where are the hydration stations located?

Accepted Answer

Saturday – Dietz & Watson Philadelphia Half Marathon100 North Columbus Blvd – Mile 2.6960 Water Street – Mile 3.71334 Walnut Street – Mile 6.33401 Chestnut Street – Mile 7.63500 Reservoir Drive – Mile 10.4Kelly Drive just south of Girard Avenue Bridge – Mile 12.0Saturday – Rothman Orthopaedics 8KKelly Drive just south of Girard Avenue Bridge – Miles 2.3 and 3.9Sunday – TIAA Philadelphia MarathonColumbus Boulevard south of Spruce Street – Mile 2.9219 S 6th Street – Mile 5.13025 Walnut Street – Mile 7.134th Street & Mantua – Mile 8.34300 Avenue of the Republic Carousel House – Mile 10.2Lansdowne Drive @ Sweetbriar Lane, just after traffic circle – Mile 11.8Fountain Green Drive and Reservoir Drive – Mile 13.5 & 15.3Kelly Drive & South Ferry Road – Miles 17.8 & 22.35026 Ridge Avenue – Miles 18.9 & 21.34266 Main Street – Miles 19.8 & 20.2Kelly Drive just South of Fountain Green Drive – Mile 24.6We will have water and a pre-mixed electrolyte drink (DryWater – Lemon Lime flavor) at fluid/water stations for all three events. e-Gel Electrolyte Energy Gel by Crank Sports will be at certain stations for the TIAA Philadelphia Marathon (past mile 11, and before mile 18 and past mile 22) and right before the mile 8 water station for the Dietz & Watson Philadelphia Half Marathon.

Question 38

Can I wear a hydration vest while out on the course?

Accepted Answer

Yes, BUT you must wear your bib outside of all attire (including hydration vests and fanny packs).You cannot have pre-filled hydration vests (we will have purified water in the start area) when entering the security zone.Empty hydration vests must be carried into the venue, not worn. Security will check the vest and the bladders must be empty. If your vest is prefilled, you will have to step out of line, remove and/or empty the vest (away from the checkpoint entry point) and then reenter the line in order to gain admittance to the secure zone.After being admitted to the secure zone, athletes will be able to fill the vest at the water stations.

Question 39

What types of refreshment fluids will be available, and where will they be located on the course?

Accepted Answer

We will have water and a pre-mixed electrolyte drink (DryWater – Lemon Lime flavor) at fluid/water stations for all three events. For fluid/water station locations, please visit the individual event pages for race maps.

Question 40

How do I update my gender identity category for registration?

Accepted Answer

Race Roster is the official race registration platform for the Philadelphia Marathon Weekend. If you are a new user of Race Roster, first, you create a user profile where you can select your preferred gender category. Your user profile will automatically populate during our race registration processes.For existing Race Roster users, please log in to your user profile and adjust your gender identity category in the profile settings. You must update the gender identity category in your profile settings BEFORE registering for our races; otherwise, a change will not occur.

Question 41

Are all-gender facilities available at the Philadelphia Marathon Weekend?

Accepted Answer

Yes, there are a number of all-gender facilities available at the marathon weekend. All-gender restrooms are available at the Health and Expo inside the Pennsylvania Convention Center, at the finish line, and along the race course.All-gender changing areas and private lactation stations are at the finish line.These areas will be monitored throughout the race weekend by security, who have undergone sensitivity training to ensure they remain a safe space for all participants.

Question 42

Getting to Philadelphia

Accepted Answer

By Car: Philadelphia is conveniently located just 2 hours from New York City and 2.5 hours from Washington, D.C. Major access routes include I-95, I-76, I-476, along with the Pennsylvania and New Jersey Turnpikes.By Rail: Amtrak operates from 30th Street Station in Philadelphia with service along the Northeast Corridor. 30th Street Station is just a few minutes cab ride from Center City.By Air: Philadelphia International Airport is served by most major airlines. Several new discount air carriers provide affordable and convenient flights into Philadelphia. A cab ride from Philadelphia International Airport to Center City takes approximately 20 minutes. Or, take the SEPTA train departing the airport every 30 minutes with service to Center City.

Question 43

Getting to the starting line

Accepted Answer

The Philadelphia Marathon Weekend will begin and end near our world-renowned Philadelphia Museum of Art at the head of the majestic Benjamin Franklin Parkway- right in front of those famous steps that Rocky sprinted up, inspiring countless imitators ever since. Start Line is located at 22nd and the Benjamin Franklin Parkway.Center City is compact and very walkable. However, if your feet get tired, we encourage athletes and spectators to use public transportation on race day. Philadelphia’s mass transit system, SEPTA, offers two subway lines, regional rail service to and from the surrounding suburbs, and bus service throughout the city. Several SEPTA buses (Nos. 7, 32, 38, 43, and 48) currently serve the Museum area.Please check with SEPTA at (215) 580-7800 for information about schedules, drop-off and pick-up locations, and route detours.If you’re planning to do a lot of “running around” on race day, please ask SEPTA about the one-day State of Independence [Pass], which gives you ten (10) rides. Athletes and fans should be aware of street closures taking place throughout the city on Race Weekend.

Question 44

Local attractions

Accepted Answer

Here’s why we say that coming to the Philadelphia Marathon Weekend just may be the best time of your life: there is so much to do here.Whether you are an athlete, art and music lover, history buff, outdoor adventurer, food and wine connoisseur, or a kid who just wants to have fun—or all of the above—there’s plenty of everything for all to enjoy.If you’re looking for an authentic Philly cheesesteak, remarkable museum collections, endless tax-free shopping on shoes and apparel, tours of Independence Hall, or vibrant nightspots, you’ll find some terrific recommendations and information at the official visitor site for Greater Philadelphia, visitphilly.com.

Question 45

I am not running but want some information about watching the race.

Accepted Answer

Spectators will NOT be permitted into the secure running area until 8:00 a.m. on both Saturday and Sunday.There are two recommended viewing areas for spectators in the vicinity of the finish line; the north viewing area & the south viewing area.Entry to the north viewing area can be made from the north side of Kelly Drive at 25th Street.Entry to the south viewing area can be made by entering any of the other spectator entry points and walking through Eakins Oval.Note: These are the best locations to watch athletes near the finish line.

Question 46

I'm with the press. Can I interview the winner of the race?

Accepted Answer

Yes. On race day, credentialed members of the press can visit the media tent at Eakins Oval to meet the winners. You are also welcome to download photos and press releases from the media page.

Question 47

Some quick reminders:

Accepted Answer

- If you are holding multiple rooms or hotels in your name, please assign with unique names and or release by Thursday, October 13, 2026, if you are no longer using the room(s). Remember hotels charge for one night’s room and tax for late cancels and no shows.

Philadelphia Marathon Weekend

Distances

Marathon

Half Marathon

Kinderlauf

Your finish time

Course & climate

Typical weather in Philadelphia

Surface mix

What to expect

Catering & aid stations

Pacers

WA Label

Bib by mail

Results

Photos

Stay & get to the start

Getting there

Hotels near the start

Route maps