Are Noisemakers Allowed at Marathons? Rules, Tips & Cowbell Traditions

If you’ve ever been to a marathon, you know that the crowd support is what keeps runners going. Spectators line the streets with signs, cheers, and yes — noisemakers. From the classic marathon cowbell to clappers and PomBells, these simple tools bring energy to the sidelines and motivation to the athletes.

But if you’re planning to watch a big race, you might be wondering: Are noisemakers allowed at marathons? The answer depends on the event. Here’s a guide to the rules, traditions, and best practices for marathon cheering.

Why Noisemakers Are Part of Marathon Cheering

Motivation for runners: A well-timed cowbell jingle or PomBell shake can give tired athletes a second wind.
Tradition: Cowbells are a fixture at endurance races worldwide — from Alpine mountain marathons to the Boston Marathon.
Community spirit: Cheering with noisemakers turns spectators into active participants, making marathons feel like giant street parties.

General Rules: Are Cowbells Allowed at Marathons?

Every race has its own spectator guidelines, but here’s what you’ll usually find:

Hand-held noisemakers like cowbells, PomBells, and clappers are welcome at most major marathons, including theNew York City Marathon,Chicago Marathon, andBoston Marathon.
Air horns, vuvuzelas, and large props are often prohibited for safety and security reasons.
International marathons vary: in Europe, cowbells are practically required at some races, while in Japan, clapping and organized chants are more common.
Smaller community or charity races are often the most flexible — some even hand out cowbells to spectators before the start.

Tip: Always check the official marathon spectator rules on the event’s website before you head out.

Best Practices for Marathon Spectators with Noisemakers

Stick to small, hand-held cheering gear like cowbells or PomBells.
Don’t block runners’ paths or overwhelm them in quiet zones (some races have “no noise” sections).
Spread out along the course so runners hear support at every stage.