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Run Team Public

Support The Public & Run the TCS New York City Marathon on November 1, 2026

Join Run Team Public and support world-class, accessible theater for all. 

For the first time ever, The Public Theater is an official charity partner of the 2026 TCS New York City Marathon, and we are building a team of dedicated runners, theater lovers, community champions, and changemakers.

By running with Run Team Public, you are supporting The Public’s mission to create culture that belongs to everyone. Your fundraising helps power Free Shakespeare in the Park, bold new work by today’s most exciting artists, and arts education and community programs across New York City.

Whether you are taking on your first marathon, or returning to the course as a seasoned runner, every mile you run helps make extraordinary theater accessible to all! 

Why run for The Public 
Every dollar you raise goes toward keeping theater inclusive and accessible to New Yorkers from every borough and theater lovers from near and far. Your fundraising supports:
  • Free Shakespeare in the Park at The Delacorte Theater
  • Civic engagement programs: Mobile Unit and Public Works
  • New work from diverse, groundbreaking artists
This run is more than 26.2 miles...it’s an investment in, and celebration of the power of culture and community. 

How It Works

  • Team members commit to raising a minimum of $5,000 for The Public Theater.
  • In return, runners receive guaranteed entry into the 2026 TCS New York City Marathon and exclusive Run Team Public perks.
  • Funds raised directly support The Public’s free and accessible programming, ensuring the arts remain open to all.  

Run Team Public Fundraising Levels & Perks 

$5,000 Level (minimum)

  • Guaranteed entry into the 2026 TCS New York City Marathon 

  • Run Team Public race shirt 

  • Team shout-out on social media (Instagram & Facebook) 

  • Invitation to Run Team Public pre-race Bagel Breakfast  

  • Invitation to Run Team Public Fun Run led by a certified run coach 

$5,500 Level 
Includes all perks above, plus:
  • Two tickets to a Joe’s Pub performance of your choice (subject to availablity)
$6,000+ Level 
Includes all perks above, plus:

  • Public Theater Arden Supporter Plus Membership (includes 4 reserved seats to 2027 Shakespeare in the Park Season) 

  • Public Theater swag bag 

Who Should Join

  • Runners passionate about the arts
  • Supporters of equity and access
  • First-time racers and half-marathon veterans
  • Anyone who believes culture should be shared 
You don’t need to be fast. You just need a heart for the arts. 

Ready to Run with Team Public?

Join Run Team Public today and make every mile count for the arts. 

Apply to join

Team spots are limited.

For questions or more information, contact: [email protected]. 

Terms and Conditions

Fundraising Commitment

  • As a Run Team Public runner, you will receive guaranteed entry into the 2026 TCS New York City Marathon in exchange for raising a minimum of $5,000. 

  • If you are selected for the team and fail to raise the required minimum by the final deadline of October 18, 2026, you agree to be responsible for the remaining balance via check or credit card. 

Race Entry & Registration

  • You are responsible for completing both your Run Team Public registration and your race registration by all applicable deadlines.
  • Your guaranteed bib is granted only upon formal acceptance to the team by The Public Theater staff. You are not considered a member of Run Team Public until notice of acceptance is provided. 

Cancellation / Non-Participation

  • If you are unable to participate in the event due to injury, personal emergency, or other circumstances, you are still responsible for fulfilling 100% of your fundraising commitment by the final deadline of Sunday, October 18, 2026. 

  • Entry fees, travel, accommodations, and other personal expenses are your responsibility and non-refundable by The Public Theater. 

Release of Liability & Publicity

  • By participating, you certify that you are physically able and prepared for the 26.2-mile course and will follow all rules and regulations of the race and organizers. 

  • You agree, for yourself and your heirs, executors and administrators, to release, indemnify and hold harmless The Public Theater, its officers, directors, volunteers, employees and agents; the race organizers; sponsors; and other affiliated parties from any and all liability, claims, demands, and causes of action whatsoever arising from or related to your participation. 

  • You authorize The Public Theater to use photographs, videos or other images of you taken in connection with the event for publicity, marketing and promotional purposes. 

General

  • You understand that Run Team Public places are limited and submission of a registration does not guarantee acceptance; only after formal notice are you confirmed as a team member.
  • The Public Theater reserves the right to amend these Terms & Conditions. If changes are made, you will be notified. Continued participation constitutes acceptance of any changes.
  • These Terms & Conditions shall be governed by the laws of the State of New York.
  • Additional race-specific rules (provided by race organizers) apply and you agree to abide by them.