The Marine Corps Marathon (MCM) is an iconic event known as “The People’s Marathon” and is the largest marathon in the world that does not offer prize money. The race, open to runners ages 14 and above, is hosted annually in Arlington, VA, and the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C. The MCM offers a unique experience for runners to tour the nation’s most recognizable landmarks, including the National Mall, the U.S. Capitol, and the U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial (Iwo Jima). The event attracts 30,000 runners from all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and more than 50 countries, promoting physical fitness, generating community goodwill, and showcasing the organizational skills of the U.S. Marine Corps.

The MCM features a wide variety of musical entertainment throughout the course, with inspiring artists, motivating music, and exciting entertainment from the first mile to the last. The race also includes moving tributes such as the wear blue Mile, located along Haines Point at mile 12 of the MCM course, which honors the service and sacrifice of the American military. The wear blue Mile is a segment of the Marathon course comprised of Faces of the Fallen posters with a photograph and name of each fallen military member, alongside an American flag draped with a black ribbon, bearing the name of a fallen military member.

The Marine Corps Marathon is deeply rooted in history and tradition. It was founded in 1975 to promote goodwill between the military and the civilian community and has since become a significant event that raises money for a wide variety of charities. The MCM also offers a range of events throughout the year, including: