Twin Cities Marathon Could Be Largest Race in a Decade
Registration has officially opened for the 2026 Twin Cities Marathon, and organizers believe this year’s race could become the largest the event has seen in more than ten years.
The race, scheduled for October 4, 2026, runs from downtown Minneapolis to the Minnesota State Capitol in St. Paul along a scenic 26.2 mile course that has earned national recognition.
Organizers expect around 11,000 runners and wheelchair athletes, which would represent a major jump from last year’s participation numbers.
If that happens, the Twin Cities Marathon could move into the top 10 largest marathons in the United States.
A Running Boom Returns to Minnesota
Distance running has surged nationwide since the pandemic, and Minnesota is seeing the same trend.
According to race organizers at Twin Cities in Motion, participation in road races has been steadily climbing again. One major factor is younger runners entering the sport.
Nearly 20 percent of runners across Twin Cities in Motion events in 2025 were Gen Z participants.
Many of these runners are drawn to more than just fitness. Race organizers say community, social connection, and shared experiences are major drivers for participation.
Running clubs, training groups, and social running events have grown rapidly across the Twin Cities metro area, especially in Minneapolis and St. Paul.
Marathon Weekend Is One of the Twin Cities’ Largest Events
The Twin Cities Marathon is just one part of a huge weekend of events.
Race weekend includes multiple distances, including:
• The Twin Cities Marathon (26.2 miles)
• The Twin Cities 10 Mile, one of the most popular races in Minnesota
• Half marathon events
• 10K and 5K races
More than 30,000 participants joined the events in 2025, and organizers believe total participation could reach 35,000 runners and walkers in 2026.
The race has built a strong reputation nationally as well.
Often referred to as “The Most Beautiful Urban Marathon in America,” the course winds past Minneapolis lakes, along parkways, and beside the Mississippi River before finishing at the steps of the State Capitol in St. Paul.
Why This Matters for the Twin Cities
Large races like the Twin Cities Marathon bring major economic activity to the region.
Thousands of participants travel from outside Minnesota, filling hotels, restaurants, and local businesses throughout the metro.
Events like this also highlight the lifestyle appeal of the Twin Cities region, which continues to attract residents who value outdoor recreation, parks, trails, and active communities.
For many people considering a move to areas like Woodbury, Afton, Stillwater, Edina, or Minneapolis, access to outdoor activities and community events plays a big role in quality of life.
The Twin Cities Marathon weekend is a great example of how active and community focused Minnesota can be.
If you are thinking about moving to the Twin Cities or exploring neighborhoods in the east metro, feel free to reach out anytime.
