Countdown to the Historic 50th Marine Corps Marathon
MCM Weekend Events from October 24-26, 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
QUANTICO, VA (August 14, 2025)
Marine Corps Marathon Announces Key Event-Day Updates for 50th Anniversary Race.
As the Marine Corps Marathon (MCM) celebrates its historic 50th running this October, organizers are implementing several important updates to enhance safety, improve logistics, and ensure a smooth experience for runners and spectators. With a record number of registered participants expected, all attendees are strongly encouraged to review the following information in advance of race day.
New for 2025: Restricted Access to Start and Finish Areas
For the first time in MCM history, access to both the start and finish areas will be restricted to registered runners only. These changes mark a significant shift from previous years, and all participants, spectators, and supporters should familiarize themselves with the updated procedures.
Race Day Metro Access
- Metro Service Begins Early: On race morning, Metro service will begin at 5:00 a.m.
- Runner Access to Start Area: Runners without War Memorial credentials will not be able to approach the start line from Rosslyn or Joint Base Meyer, VA (from the north).
- The best access to Runner’s Village (located in the North Pentagon Parking Lot) and the Rte. 110 start area is via the Pentagon Metro Station (Yellow or Blue Line).
- Runners may also access the start line via the Pentagon City Metro Station, using the Yellow or Blue Line, with a short walk to the start area.
Spectator Information
Due to enhanced security and operational logistics for the 50th anniversary, spectator access will be significantly restricted in the following areas:
- Runner’s Village is for registered runners only — spectators will not be permitted to enter.
- There will be no spectator access to the start line.
- The Arlington Cemetery Metro Station will remain closed until 9:00 a.m.
- Spectators will not be allowed on the Arlington Memorial Bridge or Memorial Avenue and cannot access the Marine Corps War Memorial finish line, or the Finish Festival, via these routes or Rte. 110.
- Rosslyn Metro Station is the recommended access point for spectators to meet runners at the Family Reunion Zone, located outside the enclosed Finish Festival at North Lynn Street and Wilson Boulevard (near Compass Coffee).
While the start and finish areas will be restricted, spectators are strongly encouraged to take Metro to key locations along the course to cheer on their runners in action. Popular viewing spots include the National Mall, Crystal City, and other accessible areas throughout Washington, D.C., and Arlington. We ask all spectators to plan ahead and follow public transportation guidance for a smooth and enjoyable experience.
We appreciate your cooperation as we strive to provide a safe, memorable, and inspiring event for everyone involved.
Health & Fitness Expo – Gaylord National Resort
New for 2025: Runners will select a Packet Pick-Up time via their race bib confirmation email. This scheduling system is designed to minimize wait times and crowding.
- Dates & Hours:
- Friday, October 24: 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. EDT
- Saturday, October 25: 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. EDT
Shuttle Service to the Expo:
Complimentary shuttles will run to and from the Eisenhower Avenue Metro Station (Alexandria, VA) and the Expo, this is the recommended way to access the expo from all points in Virginia:
- Friday, October 24: 8:00 a.m. – 9:30 p.m.
- Saturday, October 25: 8:00 a.m. – 7:30 p.m.
For additional information regarding Packet Pick-Up please go to our website: https://www.marinemarathon.com/event/marine-corps-marathon/race-day/
Race Morning Shuttle Transportation
Shuttles will run from Crystal City parking garages to the start area:
- Service Hours: 4:30 a.m. – 6:30 a.m.
- Pick-Up: 23rd Street & Crystal Drive, near Reagan National Airport
- Drop-Off: Runners Village, Pentagon North Parking Lot
Runners should arrive early to allow time for security screening, baggage check, and proper wave placement.
Start Line Procedure – Rte. 110
- Start Time: 7:20 a.m.
- Runners will be grouped in three color-coded waves: Red, Gold, and Green.
- Runners must start with their assigned wave and cannot move forward to an earlier wave (though they may move back to a later one).
- Wheeled athletes will start at 7:15 a.m., followed by Duo Teams at 7:17 a.m.
Finish Line and Runner Exit
To accommodate a record field and maintain flow, all runners must continue moving through the finish and hospitality areas after crossing the finish line.
- Access to the Marine Corps War Memorial grounds will be limited to:
- Registered runners with special category designated access
- Credentialed media
- Credentialed race officials, dignitaries, staff, volunteers, and invited guests
Finish Festival – Rosslyn, VA
The 2025 Finish Festival will be fully enclosed for safety and logistical efficiency.
- Location: From North Meade Street to Wilson Boulevard in Rosslyn
- Only registered runners and individuals with proper credentials will be allowed into the festival area
- Registered runners should ensure to collect their things and retrieve their checked runner bag at the designated UPS truck pick up area prior to leaving the festival as there will be no re-entry
- The family reunion zone will be located at North Lynn Street & Wilson Boulevard, near Compass Coffee, just outside the festival exit
Post-Race Transportation
- Shuttles from Finish Festival to Crystal City:
- Pick-up at Oak Street & Wilson Boulevard
- Service hours: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
- Return to National Harbor, MD:
- Take the Yellow Line from Rosslyn Metro to Eisenhower Avenue Station
- Then, take the complimentary shuttle to National Harbor
- Shuttle service available until 5:00 p.m.
For questions about coverage of any MCM Weekend event or if you are looking for runner profiles, please contact Amber Traunero, MCM Marketing, Media and Sponsorship Manager at 571-238-4040 or amber.roca@usmc-mccs.org.
About the Marine Corps Marathon:
The Marine Corps Marathon (MCM), known as “The People’s Marathon,” promotes physical fitness and generates community goodwill while showcasing the high standards and discipline of the United States Marine Corps. Annually ranked as one of the largest marathons in the US and the world, the MCM welcomes runners from all 50 states and more than 60 countries. The 50th MCM, coordinated by the Marine Corps Marathon Organization (MCMO), will be held Oct 26, 2025 in Arlington, VA. The MCM is presented by Leidos, Recover and Altra. No federal or Marine Corps endorsement is implied. #RunWithTheMarines