LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Kentucky's biggest day of racing is fast approaching, and registration for the Humana miniMarathon and Marathon officially opens on Tuesday!

This year's races are scheduled for Saturday, April 25, 2026. The annual event attracts more than 10,000 runners to Louisville streets every spring.

"What started as a local tradition has become a destination running event, drawing participants from across the country and around the world to Louisville each year," said Matt Gibson, Kentucky Derby Festival President and CEO. "We’re excited to celebrate a special milestone in 2026 with the 25th running of the Marathon."

Runners can find details about the 2026 event and register at DerbyFestivalMarathon.com.

Early Registration Discount

Starting at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 9, participants can lock in the lowest rates of the year during an exclusive 25-hour promotion, in honor of the 25th running of the Marathon in 2026. Registration will be $55 for the miniMarathon and $65 for the Marathon.

Once the limited time offer wraps up, registration will be $65 for the miniMarathon and $75 for the Marathon.

In addition to the miniMarathon (half marathon) and full Marathon, the Derby Festival also offers a Marathon Relay ($325) for teams of 3 to 5 runners, as well as the virtual miniMarathon & Marathon option ($50) for those who prefer to run at their own pace.

"If you’ve ever wanted to run our Marathon, 2026 is the year to do it," said Chris Martini, Kentucky Derby Festival Race Director. "It’s one of the flattest Boston Qualifying courses in the Midwest, and with our special opening day pricing, runners can secure the best deal of the season."

Details of the race course

The Humana miniMarathon and Marathon will start simultaneously at 7 a.m. on Saturday, April 25, on Main Street, near Louisville Slugger Field. The Finish Line is at Preston and Witherspoon Streets, just outside the Waterfront.

Runners in both races will run along a tour of Louisville’s most iconic sights. The course will wind through downtown, the historic Old Louisville neighborhood, Churchill Downs, and parts of the picturesque Olmsted Park System.

The full Marathon will showcase Louisville’s South End, featuring a stretch along Southern Parkway and through Iroquois Park.

Race Support

Race Week will again feature the two-day Race Expo and Packet Pick-Up on April 23 and 24 at Freedom Hall. Plus, runners of all experience levels can take part in the free Norton Sports Health Training Program, which will assist participants in getting race-day ready.

2026 marks the 53rd annual miniMarathon and the 25th run of the Marathon. More information is available here, along with FAQs to help answer questions about the event.

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