Marathon Majors 2027: race dates & ballot windows

All eight World Marathon Majors in one place — when each race is, when its ballot or registration opens, and how else to get a place. Last checked 8 Nov 2026.

Marathon majors 2027 at a glance

Race2027 dateEntry windowHow
Tokyo 7 Mar 2027 14–28 Aug 2026 Ballot
Boston 19 Apr 2027 14–18 Sep 2026 Qualifying time
London 25 Apr 2027 24 Apr – 1 May 2026 Ballot
Cape Town 23 May 2027 10–24 Jun 2026 Ballot
Sydney 29 Aug 2027 29 Sep – 19 Oct 2026 Ballot
Berlin 26 Sept 2027 1 Oct – 12 Nov 2026 Ballot
Chicago 10 Oct 2027 8–29 Oct 2026 Ballot
New York 7 Nov 2027 (expected) not announced (last year 4–25 Feb 2026) Ballot

Frequently asked questions

What are the World Marathon Majors?

A series of the world’s largest and best-known marathons: Tokyo, Boston, London, Sydney, Berlin, Chicago, New York City and — since 2026 — Cape Town. Runners who finish all of them receive a special medal from the series.

How do I get into a marathon major?

Most majors run a public ballot (lottery) once a year. Other routes are qualifying times (Boston is qualifier-only), charity places — usually with a fundraising minimum — and official international tour operators, who sell guaranteed entries as part of a travel package.

Which major is easiest to get into?

Through the ballot, the newer majors (Sydney, Cape Town) and Berlin and Chicago have historically had better odds than London, Tokyo and New York, where the chance is often only a few percent. Charity and tour-operator places are available for every major but cost more.

When do the ballots open?

Roughly: London right after its April race, Cape Town in June, Tokyo in August, Boston qualifier registration in September, Sydney in late September, Berlin and Chicago in October, and New York in February. See the table above for exact dates.

Zots Run is an independent site and is not affiliated with Abbott World Marathon Majors or any race organiser. Dates come from public announcements and can change — always confirm on the official race website before booking travel. Spotted something outdated? Let us know via GitHub.