MARKETING OPPORTUNITIES
The Bank of America Chicago Marathon is one of the world’s largest participatory sporting events. Drawing participants from all 50 states and over 130 countries. Known for its flat and fast course, the Chicago Marathon has featured seven world record performances and countless personal bests. As a member of the Abbott World Marathon Majors the event brings together elite international athletes, top Americans and citizen runners from around the globe.
2026 will feature the largest Bank of America Chicago Marathon field to date! On October 11, 2026, more than 55,000 runners will take to the streets of Chicago.
The Chicago Marathon is an event like no other! Don’t miss this opportunity to introduce participants and patrons to your brand at the Abbott Health & Fitness Expo.
The Abbott Health & Fitness Expo is a three-day event. In 2025 we saw more than 157,000 unique visitors over the three days.
Abbott Health & Fitness Expo hours of operation
Thursday, October 8: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Friday, October 9: 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Saturday, October 10: 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
ABBOTT HEALTH & FITNESS EXPO
The Abbott Health & Fitness Expo features exhibitors offering Bank of America Chicago Marathon merchandise and the latest in running footwear, apparel, nutrition and technology. Additionally, the Health & Fitness Expo is the home of the participant packet pick-up for all Marathon participants. Held at Chicago’s McCormick Place, the three-day Expo is free and open to the public. The Expo welcomes the world’s top runners and fitness enthusiasts, making it a unique opportunity for sales and to establish your company in front of a highly engaged audience.
In 2026, more than 55,000 runners will take to the streets of Chicago.
Expo Booth Procurement Guidelines:
https://www.chicagomarathon.com/sponsors/sponsor-environmental-guidelines/
PARTICIPANT BAG INSERT
The participant bag is your opportunity to get your product or information directly into the hands of each participant. Up to 58,000 physical bags are assembled for distribution to participants race weekend. There will be a limited number of inserts available this year.
Deadline to arrive at the assembly facility is August 7, 2026. Detailed instructions will be sent once the order has been received.
Participant Bag insert pricing:
Product samples = $3,200
Paper insert = $5,200
VIRTUAL BAG
The virtual bag allows your coupon, flier or advertisement to reach our participants, volunteers and spectators without the cost of printing. Post-race metrics for the virtual bag will allow you to see how many people viewed, printed and shared your advertisement. More than 61,000 virtual bags distributed multiple times as well as links included in event communications resulting in 327,500 views and 132,500 page visitors in 2024.
Pre-Race Messages:
Message #1: Mid July TBD- Training – Gear up, nutrition, around the launch of training programs
Message #2: August/September TBD – Longer mileage 30 or 60 days out
Event Lead-up Messages:
Message #3: Monday, September 28 – 2 weeks out – Final Prep/plans trip
Message #4: Monday, October 5 – Race week kick off – Deals in Chicago
Message #5: Friday, October 9 – Race weekend – Deals in Chicago
Message #6: Monday, October 12 – Marathon Monday – Celebration/Recovery
Message #7: Saturday, October 17 – Weekend after Marathon – Final Reminder/Celebration
Virtual bag pricing:
Virtual bag – Option #1 – Event time (5 times): $3,350
Virtual bag – Option #2 – All (7 times): $4,200
For more information, contact Paul Brackey at 312.904.9812 or paul.brackey@cemevent.com.
SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
For more information about Bank of America Chicago Marathon sponsorship opportunities, contact Eileen Hurley at 312.446.0161 or eileen.hurley@cemevent.com.
CONTACT INFORMATION
Paul Brackey
Senior Director, Sales and Expo
Virtual Bag and Festival Information
312-446-4282
paul.brackey@cemevent.com
