Mayor Cherelle L. Parker and Philadelphia Parks & Recreation Commissioner Susan Slawson announced today that the 2026 Independence Blue Cross Broad Street Run will be held on Sunday, May 3, 2026. Registration opens Sunday, February 1 at 12:01 a.m. and closes on Friday, February 13 at 11:59 p.m. on broadstreetrun.com. The nation’s largest 10-mile road race kicks off at Broad Street and Somerville Avenue at 7 a.m. and concludes at the iconic Philadelphia Navy Yard. The race will welcome up to 40,000 runners, with a registration fee of $65. Participants will be selected through a lottery system or may choose to run on behalf of a charity partner, including the American Cancer Society, American Association for Cancer Research, Students Run Philly Style, Back on My Feet, and the Fairmount Park Conservancy. Runners will be notified by email during the week of February 16 if they have secured a race bib. Philadelphia Parks & Recreation anticipates another sellout race in 2026.
“This year, as the nation celebrates its 250th anniversary, we are proud to welcome thousands of runners and visitors to the extraordinary IBX Broad Street Run,” said Mayor Cherelle L. Parker. “Events like this showcase how tradition, community, and celebration come together in a way only Philadelphia can deliver.”
Taking place during Mental Health Awareness Month, this year’s Broad Street Run calls on Philadelphians to pause, recharge, and recommit to personal and collective well-being. Scientific research underscores that running —across all distances and abilities—can improve mental health, moods, and emotional resilience (Source: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health).
As Philadelphia celebrates the 250th anniversary of American independence, the 2026 race takes on historic significance, bringing together neighbors, families, and visitors for a milestone year that places Philadelphia at the center of national celebration and global attention.
“The Broad Street Run is more than a race—it’s a Philadelphia tradition that unites our city,” said Susan Slawson, Commissioner, Philadelphia Parks & Recreation. “As we honor Mental Health Awareness Month and celebrate 250 years of Philadelphia’s extraordinary legacy, the Broad Street Run reminds us to care for ourselves and one another. Whether you’re running, cheering along the route, or gathering at the finish, this event exemplifies the strength, pride, and unity of Philadelphia.”
Independence Blue Cross, the race’s title sponsor for nearly three decades, continues its longstanding commitment to community health and wellness. “The Independence Blue Cross Broad Street Run inspires runners of every level to come together with renewed energy and purpose,” said Kelly Munson, President and CEO, Independence Blue Cross. “We’re honored to stand behind this iconic tradition for the 30th consecutive year and to shine a spotlight on mental health—something we care deeply about—because we all face pressures and challenges, and when someone has the support they need to focus on their mental well-being, it creates a positive ripple effect for their family and their community.”
Supporters are encouraged to cheer on runners along the course and enjoy the finish-line celebration with a family-friendly play and activity zone. Beyond the day’s festivities, the 10 mile celebration is a powerful reminder of how running, connection, and community can support the well-being of all Philadelphians.
“Caring for our mental health is essential to how we show up for ourselves, our families, and our city,” said Kehinde Solanke, Commissioner, City of Philadelphia Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual disAbility Services (DBHIDS). “This race highlights the power of movement, connection, and community in supporting emotional well-being for all Philadelphians.”
EMTs, medical personnel, and Philadelphia Police will be stationed along the route, with accommodations for wheelchair teams and spectators with disabilities.
Since 1980, when just 1,500 runners took part, the Independence Blue Cross Broad Street Run has become the nation’s largest 10‑mile race, with nearly 33,000 crossing the finish line last year.
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Philadelphia Parks & Recreation (PPR) advances the prosperity of the city and the progress of its residents through intentional and sustained stewardship of nearly 10,200 acres of public land and waterways, as well as through hundreds of safe, stimulating recreation, environmental, and cultural centers. PPR promotes the well being and growth of the city’s residents by connecting them to the natural world around them, to each other, and to fun, physical, and social opportunities. PPR is responsible for the upkeep of historically significant Philadelphia events and specialty venues. It works collaboratively with communities and organizations in leading capital projects and the introduction of inventive programming. To learn more about Philadelphia Parks & Recreation, visit us at www.phila.gov/parksandrec, and follow @philaparkandrec on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
