It’s officially Erlanger Chattanooga Marathon weekend, folks. Chattanooga Sports + Erlanger are set to host the ninth annual event from Friday, March 1 through Sunday, March 3.

As the Scenic City gets ready to welcome the anticipated 4,000 participants, we’re here to share the need-to-know information if you’re looking to join in on the fun or avoid the crowds.

The event

Folks will gather at the First Horizon Pavilion for the races + the EXPO experience. The EXPO is the central hub for runners and spectators where over 25 vendors will be set up. Pro tip: Head here if you want to pick up event merch.

The races + schedule

Saturday, March 2 | 5K | 9 a.m. start time
Saturday, March 2 | Kids Fun Run | 11 a.m. start time
Sunday, March 3 | Marathon, Half Maraton + Team Relay | 7:30 a.m. start time

Registration is open online + folks can register at the First Horizon Pavilion on Friday, March 1 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. if spots are still available.

Cheer on this year's participants at various spots along the race course. | Photo by Dan Henry provided by Chattanooga Tourism Co.

The course + traffic

Runners will take a scenic route along the Tennessee River through downtown Chattanooga. If you're looking to cheer on the runners, the course map shows the race route + what streets will be highly impacted during the event.

If you're looking to avoid the crowds, you'll want to especially avoid areas near the First Horizon Pavillion. Other areas include:

Market/Main Street
Market/20th Street
East MLK Boulevard
Riverfront Parkway/Lindsay Street
Bailey Avenue/Holtzclaw Avenue

Note: All roads should be reopened no later than 3 p.m. on Sunday, March 3.