Everything You Need to Know About Saturday’s Indianapolis Monumental Marathon Events
The CNO Financial Indianapolis Monumental Marathon is set to take place on November 8, 2025, attracting runners from around the world. This annual event features a marathon, half marathon, and 5K race. The marathon is renowned for its flat course and is one of the largest in the United States.
New Start Location and Race Course
This year, the starting point for the race has been moved to West Street, south of Maryland Street. Runners will complete their journey near the intersection of Washington Street and Capitol Avenue. The marathon course is 26.2 miles long and winds through downtown Indianapolis, extending to Broad Ripple.
Race Day Schedule
- 6:30 a.m.: Gear check opens at Washington Street & West Street. Participants must use the official clear bag provided at the expo.
- 8:00 a.m.: Start of the half and full marathon at West Street & Maryland Street.
- 8:40 a.m.: 5K race starts at West Street & Maryland Street.
- 3:30 p.m.: Official cut-off time for the race.
Road Closures
To ensure runner safety, various roads will be closed. The most extensive closure occurs at the finish line, near Capitol Avenue and Maryland Street, from 5:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Downtown areas and parts south and west will also experience some restrictions throughout the day. A color-coded map detailing these closures is available on the marathon’s official website.
Weather Forecast
According to the National Weather Service, race day is expected to feature favorable conditions with partly sunny skies and a high of 60 degrees. A light breeze of up to 6 mph can be anticipated in the afternoon.
Health & Fitness Expo
The Indiana Convention Center will host a Health & Fitness Expo on November 7 from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Participants can collect their bibs, shirts, and gear bags. The expo is also open to the public, featuring over 50 vendors specializing in running and fitness merchandise. Additionally, there will be a speaker series starting at 11:30 a.m., where physical therapists, elite athletes, and coaches will share insights.
Spectator Information
Spectators can track runners via the CNO Financial Indianapolis Monumental Marathon mobile app, available on the App Store and Google Play Store. The app provides maps and schedules for convenience. A great spot for cheering is Riverside Park, located at approximately the 20-mile mark of the race. Suggested routes for spectators, which navigate the road closures, can be found on the marathon’s website.
Cheer Stop Partners
To enhance the race-day experience, the marathon has partnered with four “cheer stop partners” offering food and drink specials, as well as poster-making stations. These locations include:
- Blue Mind Coffee on East 38th Street
- Command Coffee on North College Avenue
- Hoagies & Hops on Boulevard Place
- Howdy Homemade Ice Cream on North New Jersey Street
As November 8 approaches, the excitement continues to build for the CNO Financial Indianapolis Monumental Marathon. It promises to be a memorable day for runners and spectators alike.