NYC Half Marathon 2026 road closures this Sunday

Over 30,000 runners are set to weave through Brooklyn and Manhattan — here's what you need to know before you head out

Mar. 15, 2026 at 1:37pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The 2026 United Airlines NYC Half Marathon is set to take over the streets of Brooklyn and Manhattan on Sunday, March 15, with over 30,000 runners participating in the 13.1-mile race. The course will take runners through iconic landmarks like Prospect Park, the Brooklyn Bridge, Times Square, and Central Park, but the event will also bring significant road closures and disruptions for residents and commuters in the affected neighborhoods.

Why it matters

The NYC Half Marathon is one of the most prestigious road races in the world, drawing elite runners and thousands of participants from around the globe. While the event showcases New York City's vibrancy and athleticism, the extensive road closures and parking restrictions can create major headaches for locals and visitors trying to navigate the city on race day.

The details

The race begins in Prospect Park in Brooklyn, with the first wave of runners departing at 7 a.m. Runners will then make their way through Crown Heights, Prospect Heights, and other Brooklyn neighborhoods before crossing the Brooklyn Bridge and heading up the FDR Drive into Manhattan. The course winds through Midtown, including Times Square, before finishing in Central Park. Road closures in Brooklyn begin as early as midnight and last through the early afternoon, while Manhattan closures span from 4:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. No-parking rules have also been in effect since earlier in the week, further complicating travel plans.

  • The first wave of runners is scheduled to depart at 7 a.m., with staggered starts to follow.
  • The road closures in Brooklyn begin as early as midnight and extend through early afternoon.
  • The road closures in Manhattan span from 4:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
  • No-parking rules in Brooklyn began on Thursday, March 12, at 6 a.m. and remain in effect through Sunday at noon.
  • No-parking rules in Manhattan began on Saturday, March 14, at 9 a.m. and continue through Sunday at 3 p.m.

The players

NYRR

The organization that hosts the NYC Half Marathon and other major running events in New York City.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

The NYC Half Marathon is a celebrated event that showcases New York City's energy and athleticism, but the extensive road closures and parking restrictions can create significant disruptions for residents and commuters. Those looking to attend the race or navigate the city on race day should plan ahead and consider public transportation options to avoid the road closures.