For many runners, the thrill of a race is not just in the challenge of the course or the pursuit of a personal best. It's also about the energy and excitement that comes from participating in a large-scale event. There's something truly unmatched about the atmosphere of a big race – the buzz of the crowd, the collective anticipation at the start line, and the chorus of cheers that can propel you forward when your legs start to tire.
Alabama: Rocket City Marathon
Join the space-themed Rocket City Marathon in Huntsville, Alabama, in December. With over 2,600 participants, this event celebrates the city's deep space exploration ties. Offering a marathon, half marathon, 10K, and 5K, it's a race that allows runners of various levels to experience Huntsville's unique charm and space heritage.
Alaska: Anchorage Mayor's Marathon & Half Marathon
Explore the breathtaking Alaskan scenery at the Anchorage Mayor's Marathon & Half Marathon in June. This event attracts over 1,700 runners, offering a journey through Anchorage's stunning wilderness. It's a perfect blend of urban and natural landscapes, providing a unique racing experience in Alaska.
Arizona: Pat’s Run
Pat's Run in Tempe, Arizona, in April, is a special 4.2-mile race honoring American hero Pat Tillman. About 18,000 participants come together for this event, which is more than a race; it's a tribute to Tillman's legacy, combining sportsmanship with respect and memory.
Arkansas: Little Rock Marathon
The Little Rock Marathon in March is a festival of running in Arkansas. Attracting around 5,300 participants, it offers various distances, including a marathon, half marathon, 10K, and 5K. Known for its large finisher's medals and vibrant atmosphere, this event captures the energetic spirit of Little Rock.
California: Rock 'n' Roll San Diego
Join over 27,000 runners (the largest event within the Rock 'n' Roll series) in June at the Rock 'n' Roll San Diego, a race that's a blend of a marathon and a music festival. As bands play along the course, participants tackle the marathon, half marathon, or 5K, enjoying a pulsating atmosphere that uniquely combines running with the lively spirit of San Diego.
Colorado: Bolder Boulder
The Bolder Boulder, held on Memorial Day in Colorado, is an iconic event attracting over 50,000 runners. This race takes participants through Boulder's vibrant streets, with stunning Rocky Mountain views, and finishes at the University of Colorado's Folsom Field. It features live bands and a festive atmosphere, celebrating community, fitness, and Colorado's unyielding spirit.
Connecticut: Manchester Road Race
The Manchester Road Race in November is a Connecticut tradition, drawing about 12,000 participants. This 4.748-mile race, held on Thanksgiving Day, is known for its festive spirit and community involvement. Runners and spectators alike enjoy a fun, celebratory atmosphere, making it a beloved annual event in Manchester. This race not only promotes fitness but also brings together people of all ages in a joyful celebration.
Delaware: Coastal Delaware Running Festival
The Coastal Delaware Running Festival, a premier event in April, captivates around 3,400 runners. This race features a marathon, half marathon, and 9K, showcasing Delaware's stunning coastal scenery and quaint beach towns. It's a perfect blend of challenging courses and picturesque views, offering a unique running experience in the First State.
Florida: Disney Marathon Weekend
The Disney Marathon Weekend in Orlando in January is a magical event with nearly 40,000 participants. This family-friendly race features a marathon, half marathon, and 10K, set in the enchanting world of Disney. It's a blend of athleticism and fantasy, making it a unique and memorable race in Florida. Feely extra crazy? Take part in the Dopey Challenge running the 5K, 10K, Half Marathon and Marathon in consecutive days.
Georgia: AJC Peachtree Road Race
Join the AJC Peachtree Road Race, a celebrated 10K event in Atlanta, on July 4th. Held annually on the Fourth of July, this 10K race in Atlanta is one of the largest and most iconic races in the country, attracting over 60,000 participants making it the largest 10K and 4th largest race in the US. With. This summer event is a Georgia highlight, bringing together runners and spectators in a vibrant and energetic atmosphere.
Hawaii: Honolulu Marathon
Experience the tropical paradise of Hawaii at the Honolulu Marathon in December. This race, with approximately 24,000 participants, takes runners on a scenic tour of Honolulu, combining beautiful ocean views with a vibrant city atmosphere.
Idaho: FitOne Races Boise
Join the FitOne Races in Boise, Idaho, in September. This event attracts around 6,800 participants and includes various race options, catering to runners of all levels. The race showcases Boise's picturesque cityscapes and friendly community, making it a memorable event in Idaho's capital.
Illinois: Chicago Marathon
The Chicago Marathon, held in October, is a world-famous event in Illinois. Drawing an impressive crowd of over 57,000 participants, it takes runners through diverse neighborhoods of Chicago, offering a unique urban marathon experience. This race is renowned for its fast course, enthusiastic spectators, and the vibrant energy of the Windy City.
Indiana: Oneamerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon
The Oneamerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon in May is Indiana's largest half-marathon, with around 17,000 runners. Held in Indianapolis, this event offers an exciting blend of athletic challenge and cultural celebration. Participants enjoy a course that includes a lap around the iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
Iowa: Bix 7
The Bix 7 in July is a popular 7-mile race in Davenport, Iowa, with about 8,500 participants. This event, known for its challenging hills and enthusiastic crowd support, is a summer highlight in Iowa. It combines a rigorous athletic challenge with a festive atmosphere, making it a standout event in the Midwest.
Kansas: Garmin Olathe Marathon
The Garmin Olathe Marathon in April is Kansas's premier running event, drawing over 2,500 participants. Held in Olathe, the race offers a marathon, half marathon, and shorter distances, catering to all levels of runners. This event is known for its scenic routes through Olathe's parks and trails, providing a picturesque backdrop for runners.
Kentucky: Kentucky Derby Festival Marathon
Participate in the Kentucky Derby Festival Marathon, a major event in Kentucky with around 7,300 runners. Taking place in late April, this race offers both a marathon and a half marathon. The event is part of the larger Kentucky Derby Festival, providing a festive atmosphere that celebrates the spirit of the Bluegrass State.
Louisiana: Crescent City Classic
The Crescent City Classic in April is a New Orleans tradition with over 10,000 participants. This 10K race is known for its flat, fast course and festive atmosphere, embodying the vibrant spirit of Louisiana. Runners enjoy a route that showcases the city's historic neighborhoods and lively culture.
Maine: Beach to Beacon 10K
Maine's Beach to Beacon 10K, held in August in Cape Elizabeth, attracts around 6,500 runners. This picturesque 10K race, founded by Olympic marathon gold medalist Joan Benoit Samuelson, takes runners along Maine's beautiful coastline, finishing at the iconic Portland Head Light. It's a celebration of Maine's natural beauty and running community.
Maryland: Bay Bridge Run
The Bay Bridge Run in November is Maryland's unique running experience with about 15,000 participants. This 10K race offers a rare opportunity to run across the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, providing breathtaking views of the bay. Held in Annapolis, the event combines a challenging course with stunning scenery, making it a standout race in the region.
Massachusetts: Boston Marathon
The Boston Marathon in April is one of the most iconic, if not the most iconic, running in the US. With about 36,000 participants, is one of the hardest races to enter with difficult qualifying standards.
Michigan : Detroit Free Press/Talmer Bank Marathon
The Detroit Free Press/Talmer Bank Marathon in October is Michigan's largest marathon, drawing around 15,700 runners. The race, spanning Detroit and crossing international borders into Canada, offers a unique urban running experience. It's a celebration of the Motor City's spirit, combining international charm with the excitement of a major marathon.
Minnesota Grandma’s Marathon – Garry Bjorklund Half Marathon
Minnesota's Grandma’s Marathon & Garry Bjorklund Half Marathon in June in Duluth boasts over 16,000 participants. This event, featuring a marathon and half marathon, is known for its scenic route along Lake Superior's shores. It's a blend of natural beauty and community spirit, making it a must-run race in the Midwest.
Mississippi: Mississippi Gulf Coast Marathon
The Mississippi Gulf Coast Marathon in December in Biloxi is a scenic race with about 2,400 runners. This event offers a full and half marathon along Mississippi's picturesque Gulf Coast. It's an opportunity to experience the state's coastal beauty, with a flat and fast course that's ideal for personal bests.
Missouri: Kansas City Marathon
The Kansas City Marathon in October is Missouri's largest marathon, attracting over 6,000 participants. Held in Kansas City, this race offers a diverse course that highlights the city's famous landmarks, vibrant neighborhoods, and rolling hills. It's a celebration of Kansas City's culture, combining a challenging race with Midwestern hospitality.
Montana: Missoula Marathon
The Missoula Marathon in June is Montana's premier running event, attracting over 4,200 participants. Held in the picturesque city of Missoula, the race offers both a full and half marathon, providing runners with stunning views of the Montana landscape. It's known for its scenic course and friendly, community-driven atmosphere.
Nebraska: The Good Life Halfsy
The Good Life Halfsy in November in Lincoln, Nebraska, sees over 5,000 runners participate. This half marathon is celebrated for its fast, scenic route and enthusiastic community support. The race captures the essence of Nebraska's good life, offering a memorable running experience through Lincoln's landmarks.
Nevada: Rock 'n' Roll Las Vegas
In Nevada, the Rock 'n' Roll Las Vegas race in February brings together more than 20,000 runners. This unique night race transforms the Las Vegas Strip into a runner's paradise. Participants enjoy a flat, fast course and the electric atmosphere of Las Vegas, making it a standout event in the racing calendar.
New Hampshire: Rockfest Half Marathon
The Rockfest Half Marathon in October in Hampton, New Hampshire, draws around 3,200 runners. This coastal race is known for its beautiful, flat course along the Atlantic Ocean. It combines New Hampshire's natural beauty with a lively post-race party, offering a fun and scenic race experience.
New Jersey: Spring Lake 5 Miler
In New Jersey, the Spring Lake 5 Miler in May is a popular event with over 10,500 participants. Held in the charming town of Spring Lake, this race is known for its beautiful ocean views and community feel. It's a celebration of spring, fitness, and community spirit, making it a beloved event in New Jersey.
New Mexico: Duke City Marathon
The Duke City Marathon in October in Albuquerque, New Mexico, brings together over 3,000 participants. This race, offering a full marathon, half marathon, and shorter distances, is known for its high-altitude challenge and scenic urban course. It's a celebration of Albuquerque's culture and a testament to the endurance of its runners.
New York: New York City Marathon
The New York City Marathon in November is an epic event, drawing over 61,000 runners making it the largest road race in America. Spanning the five boroughs of New York City, this marathon offers a diverse and vibrant course, reflecting the energy and spirit of the Big Apple. It's a bucket-list race for many, showcasing the city's iconic landmarks and enthusiastic crowds.
North Carolina: CPI Security Charlotte Turkey Trot
In North Carolina, the CPI Security Charlotte Turkey Trot in November in Charlotte sees close to 9,000 participants. This Thanksgiving Day race, featuring a variety of distances, is a family-friendly event that has become a holiday tradition in Charlotte, combining fitness with festive celebration.
North Dakota: Fargo Marathon
The Fargo Marathon in May is North Dakota's largest running event, with nearly 7,000 participants. Held in Fargo, this race offers a flat and fast course, making it ideal for personal bests. It's known for its enthusiastic local support and lively atmosphere, reflecting the community spirit of Fargo.
Ohio: Flying Pig Marathon
Ohio's Flying Pig Marathon in May in Cincinnati attracts over 28,000 runners. This event, offering a full marathon, half marathon, and other distances, is renowned for its challenging course and pig-themed festivities. It's a celebration of the city's heritage and the spirit of the running community in Cincinnati.
Oklahoma : Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon
The Oklahoma City Marathon in April in Oklahoma City draws over 12,000 participants. This race, offering a variety of distances, is known for its memorializing route, honoring the victims of the Oklahoma City bombing. It's a poignant reminder of resilience and community strength.
Oregon: Shamrock Run Portland
Shamrock Run Portland in March is Oregon's largest running event, with nearly 10,000 participants. Held in Portland, this festive race celebrates St. Patrick's Day with a series of events, including a half marathon, 15K, and 8K, showcasing the city's scenic beauty and vibrant culture.
Pennsylvania: Philadelphia Marathon
The Philadelphia Marathon in November is a highlight in Pennsylvania, attracting around 28,000 runners. This race features a historic and scenic course through Philadelphia, passing landmarks like the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. It's a celebration of American history and the spirit of running.
Rhode Island: Providence Marathon
Rhode Island's Providence Marathon in May in Providence sees over 4,700 participants. This marathon, half marathon, and 5K race offer runners a scenic tour of the state's capital, combining urban landscapes with the charm of New England.
South Carolina: Cooper River Bridge Run
The Cooper River Bridge Run in April in Charleston, South Carolina, brings together more than 22,000 runners. This 10K race is famous for its crossing of the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, offering stunning views of the Charleston Harbor. It's a blend of southern charm and athletic challenge.
South Dakota: Sioux Falls Marathon
The Sioux Falls Marathon in August is South Dakota's attracts over 1,500 runners. Held in Sioux Falls, this race offers a full marathon, half marathon, and 10K. It's known for its flat and fast course, winding through the city's parks and along the Big Sioux River, showcasing the natural beauty of South Dakota.
Tennessee: St. Jude Memphis Marathon
The St. Jude Memphis Marathon in December is a major Tennessee event with nearly 19,000 participants. This race, including a full marathon, half marathon, 10K, and 5K, is notable for its support of St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Runners enjoy a course that winds through the historic streets of Memphis, combining fitness with philanthropy.
Texas: Houston Marathon
Texas's Houston Marathon in January is one of the state's largest running events, drawing over 24,000 participants. The race, which includes a marathon and half marathon, is known for its flat, fast course through Houston's diverse neighborhoods. It's a winter highlight in Texas, offering an ideal setting for personal bests and qualifiers.
Utah: St. George Marathon
The St. George Marathon in October is Utah's premier running event, with nearly 6,000 participants. This marathon is celebrated for its scenic course, which offers breathtaking views of the Pine Valley Mountains and a descent through the scenic landscapes of southern Utah, making it a favorite among runners.
Vermont: Vermont City Marathon
Vermont's Vermont City Marathon in May in Burlington draws around 2,000 runners. This race, which includes a marathon and relay, takes runners through Burlington's historic neighborhoods and along the scenic waterfront of Lake Champlain. It's known for its community involvement and vibrant atmosphere, reflecting the spirit of Vermont.
Virginia: Yuengling Shamrock Marathon, Half Marathon, and 8K
The Yuengling Shamrock Marathon, Half Marathon, and 8K in March in Virginia Beach is a significant event in Virginia, drawing over 16,000 participants. This race weekend is known for its festive atmosphere, flat courses, and scenic oceanfront views. It's a celebration of St. Patrick's Day, combining fitness with fun.
Washington: Lilac Bloomsday Run
In Washington, the Lilac Bloomsday Run in May in Spokane attracts around 25,000 participants. This 12K race is famous for its challenging course and community spirit. The event is a Spokane tradition, known for its blooming lilacs and vibrant community involvement, making it a unique springtime race.
West Virginia: Marshall University Marathon
The Marshall University Marathon in November in Huntington, West Virginia, sees over 1,500 runners. This race, offering a marathon and half marathon, is known for its flat, fast course and historic finish inside Marshall University's stadium. It's a race that combines athletic challenge with a tribute to the university's legacy.
Wisconsin: Brew City Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K, & 5K
Wisconsin's Brew City Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K, & 5K in April in Milwaukee attracts around 3,700 participants. This event offers a variety of distances, showcasing Milwaukee's urban charm and the city's brewing heritage. The race is a celebration of Milwaukee's culture, known for its lively post-race festivities.
Wyoming : Grand Teton Half Marathon & 5K
The Grand Teton Half Marathon & 5K in June in Wyoming is a breathtaking event, attracting over 2,700 participants. Set near the stunning Grand Teton National Park, this race offers runners unparalleled views of the Teton Range. It's an opportunity to immerse in the natural beauty of Wyoming, making it a memorable experience for runners who appreciate both the challenge of a race and the allure of the great outdoors.