About Us
The Philadelphia Marathon has grown tremendously since our first race in 1994. What started as a small local event of just 1,500 participants has become one of the top 10 marathons in the country. Our beautiful and scenic course takes runners past historic landmarks, through urban neighborhoods, and along Philadelphia's picturesque waterfronts. Of course, you can't forget the crowds. Each year, spectators line the course, eager to cheer on runners, because there's nothing we love more in this town than champions. Race Weekend 2022 features the AACR Philadelphia Marathon on Sunday, November 20; the Dietz & Watson Philadelphia Half Marathon, Rothman Orthopaedics 8K and Dunkin' Munchkins Kids Fun Run on Saturday, November 19; and a free two-day Health & Fitness Expo on Friday, November 18, and Saturday, November 19.
HISTORY OF THE PHILADELPHIA MARATHON
The beginnings of organized marathoning in Philadelphia date back to at least the 1920s when the race occurred on a course from the Philadelphia suburbs into the city. Mainly a suburban event, efforts were largely independent and promoted under various names over the years.
It was not until 1994 that the marathon became a City of Philadelphia-managed race held strictly within city limits. It was then that the Philadelphia Marathon as we know it today was officially established by the City and a group of dedicated runners-physicians at the Rothman Orthopaedics. The new city-centered course provided a perfect setting to showcase the many historic and beautiful assets of Philadelphia.
Today, the race is flourishing, with nearly 30,000 participants expected to take part in all three races: The Rothman Orthopaedics 8K, as well as the Full and Half Marathons along with hundreds of runners registering for one of our Challenge events that combine events to add to their marathon event.
The Marathon remains true to one of its founding goals of promoting health and fitness, adding the Health & Fitness Expo and a noncompetitive Dunkin' Muchkin Run (ages 3 to 12) to the experience. Over the decades, the Marathon has experienced many enhancements, but one thing remains the same: The Philadelphia Marathon is famous for going the distance.
