New York Marathon 2026: Registration, Lottery and Race Details
Why the New York Marathon 2026 matters
The TCS New York City Marathon is one of the world’s most iconic road races, attracting elite athletes, recreational runners and international travellers. With registration for the 2026 race opening, thousands of hopeful participants now have the chance to secure a place in the event that winds through all five boroughs and finishes in Central Park. Understanding the entry options and deadlines is essential for anyone planning to run, travel or follow the race.
Main details and how to enter
Registration and lottery windows
Registration for the 2026 TCS New York City Marathon has opened with multiple entry options available through New York Road Runners. The race itself is scheduled for Sunday 1 November 2026. Applications for the non-guaranteed entry drawing and the guaranteed entry claim period opened at 12 p.m. ET and remain available through 25 February at 11:59 p.m. ET. Separately, sources note the lottery and applications run from 4–25 February, so prospective entrants should ensure they meet the relevant deadlines.
Member benefits and second-chance drawing
New York Road Runners members who apply through the non-guaranteed general entry drawing and meet eligibility requirements will automatically be entered into a member-only second-chance drawing. This provides an additional route to entry for members beyond the primary lottery.
Event experience and travel information
The marathon route takes runners through New York’s five boroughs, passing iconic landmarks and diverse neighbourhoods in an atmosphere noted for its energy and community support. Travel operators such as Sports Tours International highlight the full-event experience, including pre-race briefings hosted alongside New York Road Runners and optional activities like an official 5km dash through midtown Manhattan that finishes in Central Park. Tour operators also offer alerts and cancellation lists for those seeking last-minute opportunities.
Conclusion and what to watch
With registration open and the lottery period active, potential entrants should act before the 25 February deadline and consider membership benefits for a second-chance entry. The 1 November 2026 date gives runners and travellers time to plan logistics and training. Given the race’s popularity and multiple entry pathways, organisers and tour providers expect continued strong interest — entrants should monitor official New York Road Runners communications and tour operators for updates and final confirmations.
