philly marathon season overview for 2023

It’s the final countdown for the 2023 Philadelphia Marathon. Athletes have been training all year, runners groups are challenging each other to hit those PRs, and the City of Brotherly Love is ready to celebrate.

What do you need to know about the Philly Marathon this year? Here are answers to some of the most common questions to help you prepare.

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When is the Philadelphia Marathon?

This year, the Philadelphia Marathon weekend takes place on November 17-19, 2022. Check the race details on their site for the exact times of each race and challenge!

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Do you have to qualify for the Philadelphia Marathon?

No, you don’t need a qualifying time to enter the marathon. But remember, the course has a cutoff time of seven hours. To reach the finish line before the cutoff time, runners must maintain a mile pace of 16 minutes or less.

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Does the Philadelphia Marathon sell out?

The Philadelphia Marathon has sold out in the past, meaning registration spots reach maximum capacity and no one else can sign up.

If the marathon sells out before you can enter, check if the Half Marathon or Rothman 8k races are available.

How early should runners get to the Philadelphia Marathon?

All race entry gates open at 5:00 am EST on Sunday. Show up early to pass all the security checks, warm up, and prepare for the run. Starting time is 7:00 am.

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How many runners are in the Philadelphia Marathon?

Up to 30,000 runners participate in the Philly Marathon every year. It’s one of the largest marathons in the United States!

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What time is the Philadelphia Marathon over?

The event ends at 3:00 pm EST, as roads must reopen for traffic.

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Where should you park for the Philly Marathon?

Try to park at a nearby parking lot or parking garage. There will be no street parking on Benjamin Franklin Parkway. If you have to park far away, check the shuttle bus schedule and plan accordingly.

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Where is the start line for the race?

The start and finish line for the Philadelphia Marathon, Half Marathon, and Rothman 8k is at 22nd and Benjamin Franklin Parkway. It’s near the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. 

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Is the Philadelphia Marathon flat?

The Philadelphia Marathon is mostly flat with a few major hills in the middle. Check the race maps to see what to expect if you’ve never run it before.

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Is the Philadelphia Half Marathon hilly?

For the Half Marathon, expect mostly flat terrain except for hills around miles 8, 10, and 11. View an elevation map here. 

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How much is the Philadelphia marathon?

The AACR Philadelphia Marathon is $160 upon registration. Other races such as the Half Marathon and the Rothman 8k range from $30 to $105.

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When does registration close for the Philly Marathon?

Registration closes on November 7, 2022, so make sure to sign up before then.

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How cold is the Philadelphia marathon?

Race day takes place in late November, so expect cool temperatures. Typically, there’s an expected high of 45°F. It has been known to rain, too, so check local weather predictions to dress appropriately.

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What time does the marathon start?

The Philadelphia Marathon starts on Sunday, November 20, 2022, at 7:00 am EST.

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What roads are closed during the Philadelphia Marathon?

Benjamin Franklin Parkway will be closed for several hours on Friday, and Saturday from 2:00 am to 3:00 pm, and Sunday from 2:00 am to 2:45 pm. Keep an eye out for a list of all the Philly road closures and updates the week of the marathon.

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What do runners wear in the Philly Marathon?

Participants usually wear comfortable, worn-in shoes and running gear. Dress in layers so you can stay comfortable as temperatures change throughout the day. And, of course, don’t forget your assigned bib!

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Can you transfer your Philly Marathon registration?

If something happens and you can’t make the race after you register, you can defer your registration to next year’s race. You can also transfer your registration to a different event for this year, as long as it’s before November 7th. 

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Where can you watch the Philly Half Marathon?

Since the Philly Half Marathon is a different course than the main marathon, there aren’t as many spots for spectators. But you can still watch from Benjamin Franklin Parkway and along Martin Luther King Jr. Drive.

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Where does the Philadelphia Marathon registration money go?

Some of the registration money helps fund the large weekend event and goes toward winner prizes. But there are several charities and causes that Philly Marathon donates much of its funds to:

• AACR (American Association of Cancer Research)
• Affiliate charities such as ALS Association, Alzheimer’s Association, Philadelphia Youth Basketball, and more. 

Because the Philadelphia Marathon is more affordable than other races with higher barriers to entry, much of the funds go to charity. 

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Common Questions After the Marathon Ends

Whether you’re buzzing with a runner’s high or celebrating the accomplishment of a loved one, here are a few things to know post-race.

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How do you see who won the Philly Marathon?

Race results will be announced live and can be seen on the Philadelphia Marathon website.

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Where can you get Philadelphia Marathon pictures?

You can find professional pictures after the race on the Philadelphia Marathon website. Ask a facilitator or staff member for more info.

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Is the Philadelphia Marathon a Boston qualifier?

Yep, the Philly Marathon is a qualifying race for the Boston Marathon!

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Get Involved: Philadelphia Runners Communities

Want to find local races to help prepare you for the Philadelphia marathon? Find your next race at Run The Day!