2025 Philadelphia Marathon Weekend
The 2025 Philadelphia Marathon Weekend takes place November 21–23 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, bringing together over 30,000 athletes for one of the top-10 marathons in the United States. In November, Philadelphia experiences typical late autumn weather with temperatures ranging from 45–55°F (7–13°C), occasional rain showers, and possible wind along the riverfront courses. Participants can expect a well-organized weekend featuring multiple race distances, a two-day health and fitness expo, and the city's renowned enthusiastic crowds cheering athletes throughout scenic routes that pass historic landmarks, urban neighborhoods, and waterfronts. The event weekend includes the full marathon, half marathon, 8K race, and kids' run, along with several multi-race challenge options for those seeking additional competition.
What races are offered during the 2025 Philadelphia Marathon Weekend?
- →AACR Philadelphia Marathon (Full) – 26.2 miles
- →Dietz & Watson Philadelphia Half Marathon – 13.1 miles
- →Rothman Orthopaedics 8K – 4.97 miles
- →Nemours Children's Health Philadelphia Kid's Run – Short, non-competitive events for children
What multi-race challenges are available?
- →Patriot Challenge: Half Marathon + 8K
- →Independence Challenge: Full Marathon + 8K
- →Liberty Bell Challenge: Full Marathon + Half Marathon
- →Freedom Challenge: Full Marathon + Half Marathon + 8K
What can participants expect from the Philadelphia Marathon course?
The AACR Philadelphia Marathon features a USATF-certified, Boston-qualifying course that winds through Fairmount Park, along the Schuylkill River, through Old City and University City neighborhoods, and concludes at the Philadelphia Museum of Art steps. The Dietz & Watson Philadelphia Half Marathon traverses historic and lively neighborhoods, also finishing at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. The Rothman Orthopaedics 8K runs along the Schuylkill River and Kelly Drive, providing scenic waterfront views.
When does the Health & Fitness Expo take place?
The two-day Health & Fitness Expo runs Friday, November 21 and Saturday, November 22, 2025, and is free to attend for all participants and spectators.
What is the race schedule for the weekend?
- →Friday, November 21: Health & Fitness Expo (free)
- →Saturday, November 22: Health & Fitness Expo (free), Dietz & Watson Philadelphia Half Marathon, and Rothman Orthopaedics 8K
- →Sunday, November 23: AACR Philadelphia Marathon and Nemours Children's Health Philadelphia Kid's Run
What is the history of the Philadelphia Marathon?
Organized marathoning in Philadelphia dates back to the 1920s. The event became a City of Philadelphia-managed race in 1994 with 1,500 participants. Over the past three decades, it has grown into one of the top-10 marathons in the United States, now attracting nearly 30,000 participants. The race has expanded to include a health and fitness expo and kids' run while maintaining its commitment to the health and fitness mission.
How does the Philadelphia Marathon support the community?
The Philadelphia Marathon is supported by the Philadelphia City Fund (PCF) as its fiscal sponsor. PCF provides financial oversight and invests proceeds into community projects. The Marathon is PCF's only program that generates unrestricted revenue for grantmaking, making it a significant vehicle for supporting local charitable initiatives and community development.
What makes the Philadelphia Marathon special?
The Philadelphia Marathon is renowned for its scenic course that passes historic landmarks, urban neighborhoods, and waterfronts throughout the city. The event is particularly famous for the enthusiastic crowds that line the course, cheering and encouraging athletes throughout the race weekend. This combination of a well-designed route and community support creates a distinctive racing experience.
What weather conditions should participants prepare for in November?
November in Philadelphia typically features temperatures between 45–55°F (7–13°C). Participants should prepare for possible rain showers and wind, especially along the Schuylkill River and waterfront sections of the course. Layered clothing and moisture-wicking materials are recommended, along with a light jacket or windbreaker for protection against the elements.