How 2 Celebrate the SF Marathon (No Running Required)

You can almost hear the thousands of thundering feet already — more than 54,000 to be (kind of) exact. The San Francisco Marathon is on its way July 23rd and the starting line is just a mile from our front door. If you’re running, our fitness center is a great spot to warm up. And after the race, there’s no better place to take it easy and recover. 

This is the 40th anniversary of the marathon, which brings runners across the Golden Gate Bridge, past historic landmarks, and through historic SF neighborhoods.

And, don’t forget, the San Francisco Marathon isn’t just for runners. You can come 2 cheer on family and friends or simply to enjoy the fun and excitement of it all. 

Here are four tips 4 making the most of the San Francisco  Marathon — even if you’re not running.

 

Run 2 the Race Expo

The Race Expo takes place on July 21st and 22nd at the Festival Pavilion at Fort Mason. Browse the latest innovations from the world’s most influential health and fitness brands. The Race Expo features official marathon merchandise, product demos, and more than 40 exhibitor booths. Best of all, admission is free.

 

Tap the App

If you have a friend or family member running the marathon, here’s the best way to keep track of them. The San Francisco Marathon’s 2017 Race App is powered by Fitbit and lets you track the progress of one or more runners in real time throughout the marathon. The app also gives you a convenient way 2 access key race and related event information all in one spot.

 

Watch & Cheer

If you’re looking for the best spots 2 view the marathon and cheer on runners, organizers have done all the work for you. 22 official Course Entertainment and Cheer Stations will be set up along the marathon route, giving you an opportunity to hear some great music and get the best views of the runners.

 

Find Some Beer

Is there a better way 2 celebrate at the end of a marathon than with a cold beer? The Finish Line Festival takes place from 8 am to 12:30 pm. It’s here where you’ll be able to see the award ceremonies, high five some exhausted runners, and take a stroll through the beer garden. 

 

#BonusTip: If you’re not a runner, one of best ways 2 get involved is to volunteer. Also, if you’re a DJ or have a band, this could be a great opportunity to get some exposure at one of the entertainment stations. 

#DidYouKnow: 1,000 runners took part in the first San Francisco Marathon back in 1977. Now, on its 40th anniversary, the San Francisco Marathon expects more than 27,000 to take up the challenge. Whether you’re visiting 4 the first time or the 40th, it’s a great year 2 be a part of this SF tradition.