The return of the New York City Police Department’s traffic blocks to Lincoln Square (pictured) means that the TCS New York City Marathon, hosted by New York Road Runners, isn’t far away! Lincoln Square is in the heart of the action, with the finish line just steps away in Central Park. Read on for a guide to making the most of a NYC tradition that dates back 55 years.
Before the marathon starts, there will be a buzz of activity in Central Park. The marathon’s Opening Ceremony, hosted by NYRR and presented by United Airlines, takes place on Friday, October 31, at 4:00pm. Use the entrance at Central Park West at West 63rd Street to get to this free event, which has first-come, first-served seating until the grandstand is filled. The celebration, highlighted by the Parade of Nations, concludes at 6:30pm with a magnificent fireworks display!
The marathon begins at 8:00am on Sunday, November 2. There are opportunities to cheer on the athletes all along the course (link to course map), and a map of the finish line area is available here for those looking to watch the finish or meet runners after the race. Expect many street closures, which will reopen to vehicles on a rolling basis. The schedule of bridge and street closures and reopenings will be posted here. To get emergency updates on marathon day, text NYCMARATHON to 692692 or in Spanish MARATHONESP to 692692.
Whether you’re running or spectating, both activities require fueling up. Fortunately, you don’t have to travel far to find coffee or a great meal. There are many options in Lincoln Square BID’s Neighborhood Guide, including Café Fiorello (1900 Broadway between West 63rd and 64th Street), which on Friday, October 31 and Saturday, November 1 is cooking up a Carbo Loading special menu that’s perfect for high metabolisms.
Fleet Feet (10 Columbus Circle, 2nd Floor) is partnering with top running brands leading up to the marathon. Lace up on Wednesday, October 29, at 6:30pm for a group run in Central Park and to try new gear, score giveaways, and win exciting raffles (registration available here). Fleet Feet is also a retailer for official NYC Marathon apparel.
In accordance with the city’s safety protocols, the Lincoln Square Business Improvement District moves all of its trash cans (more than 50 cans in total) along Broadway, Columbus Avenue, and Central Park West south of West 65th Street and locks its Big Belly trash containers. Throughout the weekend, the BID’s Clean Team and Public Safety Officers will remain out in the district, sweeping and bagging litter and assisting people as usual. On Monday, the BID will quickly return all trash cans to their original locations.
Whether you’re running or not, we hope you enjoy an inspiring day of athleticism and determination!
Photo credit: BID Staff
