With the Olympics gone, fans are looking for the next sporting spectacle. Many tuned in to watch the Chicago Marathon and saw Ruth Chepngetich create history. But now it’s time for the city that never sleeps—New York. The New York marathon is highly considered the best among all the others, with its credibility untouched over the years. 

Last year, Ethiopia’s Tamirat Tola set a new course record with a time of 2:04:56, thrilling fans and raising the bar for this year’s marathon. As the race kicks off again, expectations are high that competitors will push to break Tola’s record, creating an exciting spectacle for spectators. With this in mind, many are eagerly seeking ways to watch the event live and experience the action as it unfolds in real time.

When and where is the New York Marathon 2024 taking place?

November 3rd is the date when the 53rd New York marathon will take place. With 50,000 runners and over one million spectators, it’s most definitely the largest race in the world. Thus, it is one of the biggest events during fall in New York and has been a huge part of the ‘New Yorker culture’. A 26.2-mile course, it travels through all five boroughs from Staten Island to Central Park. 

During the race, athletes cover major parts of the city, running through Brooklyn, Queens, and Manhattan, showcasing the heart of New York. The event kicks off at 8:00 AM with the professional wheelchair division, followed by the handcycle category 22 minutes later. At 8:40 AM, the Women’s Open Division begins, and at 9:05 AM, the Men’s Division officially starts the marathon. Adding to the excitement, an opening ceremony is scheduled for November 1st, featuring the Parade of Nations—a spectacle that’s not to be missed! It’s no wonder so many are eager to watch and be part of such a grand event.

How to watch the New York Marathon 2024?

There are numerous great spots where spectators can watch the marathon firsthand. For an early glimpse, Fourth Avenue in Brooklyn is ideal, where runners pass just 2-4 miles from the starting point after leaving the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge. Next, they’ll hit Pulaski Bridge at mile 13 before making their way to First Avenue in Manhattan about five miles later. From there, they run through East Harlem, Charity Cheer Zone, Fifth Avenue, and United Airlines Zone before finishing their race on West Drive in Central Park. Each location offers a unique experience of the marathon’s energy!

There are plenty of other options. Spectators can either secure a spot in the ticketed grandstand seating area or enjoy the race from the sidewalks. However, for those who prefer not to be there in person, they can catch the race live from the comfort of their home. WABC-TV Channel 7 will broadcast the event from 8:30 am to 1 pm, and the ABC app will also offer a live stream online. ESPN2 and the ESPN app will also provide coverage, making it easy for viewers to tune in. With so many ways to watch, this marathon promises to be one of the standout events of the year!