bank of america chicago marathon

What to Know About the 2022 Abbott Health & Fitness Expo

The expo will take place ahead of the marathon, which is set to step off Oct. 9

Before runners can set off on the 44th running of the Bank of America Chicago Marathon on Oct. 9, they'll need to make a trip to the Abbott Health & Fitness Expo.

As the one-stop station for race-day preparations, the expo will run packet pickup and share important information. The expo will also feature hundreds of vendors and exhibits.

Here's what you need to know about the expo:

When and Where Is the Expo?

All participants must pick up a packet ahead of the marathon.

Packets will be distributed at the McCormick Place, which is located at 2301 S. Martin Luther King Dr. Distribution will run across three days:

Oct. 6: Packet Pick Up

  • 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Oct. 7 Packet Pick Up

  • 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Oct. 8: Packet Pick Up

  • 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

What Can You Find There?

The Health & Fitness Expo will feature more than 100 exhibitors, according to marathon organizers. Visitors can buy merchandise for the race, or can check out the latest in footwear, apparel, nutrition and technology.

Runners aren't the only ones welcome to expo, though — the expo is also open and free to the public.

What Is in the Runners' Packets?

Participant packet items include:

  • Bib number and safety pins
  • Timing device
  • Gear-check tag
  • Nike participant running shirt
  • Participant bag
  • Ticket redeemable for one free Goose Island beer for those who are 21 and over

What Do You Need to Pick Up Your Packet?

Participants must present their packet pick-up email along with a photo ID to receive their participant packet and participant bag.

"You must pick up your participant packet and participant bag in person at the Abbott Health & Fitness Expo during regularly scheduled hours," according to the marathon's website. "These items (participant packets, bags and running shirts) will not be available for pickup on race day, and will not be mailed. Individuals will not be allowed to pick up these items on behalf of others."

How Do You Get to the Expo?

Parking will be available in McCormick Place parking lot A and C at a reduced cost of $12.

Public transportation will also be available through the CTA and the South Shore Line. The Metra Electric Line also makes stops at McCormick Place.

Contact Us