The London Marathon attracts precision-trained elite athletes alongside well meaning not-too-carefully-prepared individuals ready to wear ridiculous fancy dress to raise money for charity. Huge crowds gather to watch this spectacle, accompanied by bands, banners, bunting and balloons, creating an overall feeling of a massive street party. The 26.2 mile race is also a serious athletic event, regarded as a very competitive and unpredictable event and conducive to fast times, making for an exciting day for all the family.