Austin Marathon 2026: 30,000 Runners to Take Over Downtown Austin for 35th Anniversary Race & Charity Weekend
On Sunday, February 15, 2026, more than 30,000 runners from across the country and around the world will line up in downtown Austin for what organizers call the running social event of the year. The Ascension Seton Austin Marathon, Half Marathon & 5K returns for its 35th anniversary, promising an unforgettable Presidents Day weekend filled with live music, scenic miles, and a finish line celebration in front of the Texas State Capitol.
The race begins at 7 a.m. in downtown Austin, Texas, and winds through some of the city’s most iconic neighborhoods and landmarks. For many participants, it’s more than a race — it’s a bucket-list experience set against the backdrop of the Live Music Capital of the World.
A Course That Showcases Austin
Runners in the Austin Marathon 2026 can expect a scenic downtown course featuring stretches past the Texas State Capitol, South Congress, and Zilker Park. Along the way, live bands energize the route, crowds line the streets, and volunteers staff aid stations every few miles.
The final stretch down historic Congress Avenue remains one of the most anticipated moments of the day, as runners approach the finish line festival surrounded by cheering spectators.
The post-race celebration includes food, drinks, medals, music, and dancing — turning race day into a citywide event for participants, families, and supporters alike.
With nearby hotels, restaurants, and shops just steps from the finish, Austin Marathon weekend offers visitors and locals an immersive downtown experience.
2026 Special Focus: Honoring Nonprofit Heroes
As part of the 35th anniversary celebration, the 2026 Austin Marathon is spotlighting nonprofit employees, offering them 50% off registration in recognition of their service to the community.
Registration remains open for the full marathon, half marathon, and virtual race options. (The 5K has already closed.) Pricing tiers vary, with marathon and half marathon entries available online through the official race registration portal.
Organizers are encouraging runners of all abilities to participate — whether chasing a personal record, completing a first 5K or marathon, or simply soaking in the energy of race day.
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Austin Marathon Gives: Running for a Cause
A defining feature of the Ascension Seton Austin Marathon is its official charity program, Austin Marathon Gives (AMG), presented by The Moody Foundation.
The program connects runners with nonprofit organizations, turning training miles into fundraising efforts that directly benefit Central Texas causes.
“The Austin Marathon Gives program is a core part of who we are as an event,” said Jack Murray, Co-owner of the Austin Marathon. “It brings together runners, volunteers, and non-profits in a way that creates lasting impact far beyond race day. As we celebrate 35 years of the Austin Marathon, we’re proud to continue using this platform to uplift organizations that do incredible work in our community.”
For 2026, 29 nonprofit organizations were selected through a competitive application process, representing causes such as mental health, youth development, education, healthcare, environmental stewardship, and community support.
2026 Austin Marathon Gives Official Charity Partners
Selected charities include:
- American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
- Andy Roddick Foundation
- Austin Parks Foundation
- Autism Society of Texas
- Camp Kesem
- CureDuchenne
- Dell Children’s Hospital
- Down Syndrome Association of Central Texas
- East Austin Conservancy
- Flatwater
- Gazelle Foundation
- Generation SERVE
- Ghisallo Cycling Initiative
- GMT (Global Medical Training)
- Health Alliance for Austin Musicians (HAAM)
- I AM REDEMPTION
- Keep Austin Beautiful
- LifeWorks Austin
- Marathon Kids
- Miracle Foundation
- Odyssey School
- Paramount Theatre
- Sam’s Adventure Camp
- SEVA Charities
- Texas 4000 for Cancer
- The LIVESTRONG Foundation
- The Trail Conservancy
- U.R. Our Hope
- Upbring
Runners can select a charity during registration, create a personalized fundraising page, and receive tools and support directly from their chosen nonprofit. Community members who prefer not to run can volunteer at official Austin Marathon Gives positions along the course or make a one-time donation.
Since its inception 10 years ago, Austin Marathon Gives has raised more than $5.5 million for Central Texas nonprofits. Overall charitable fundraising tied to the marathon has surpassed $6 million, with a 2026 goal of $500,000.
The program is supported by The Moody Foundation, which provides matching opportunities to help participating nonprofits maximize their impact.
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Supporting Dell Children’s Medical Center
During registration, participants also have the opportunity to donate in support of Dell Children’s Medical Center, the only Level I Trauma Center serving a 46-county region across Central Texas.
As an Ascension Seton nonprofit hospital, Dell Children’s provides care to thousands of children each year — with approximately 69% of patient services supporting children who are un- or under-insured. Community philanthropy helps ensure that no child is turned away regardless of a family’s ability to pay.
Organizers note that donations made during registration are processed through High Five Events and forwarded to the selected charity. Donations are not tax-deductible, and contributors are encouraged to consult a tax advisor for details.
A 35-Year Austin Tradition
Since launching in 1992, the Austin Marathon has grown into a world-class race, drawing participants from all 50 states and more than 50 countries. The course spans every quadrant of the city, and the festive atmosphere — complete with live music at nearly every mile — has become a hallmark of the event.
Beyond athletic achievement, the race has become a symbol of community connection. Nonprofits volunteer, musicians perform, families cheer, and thousands of runners share a common goal.
For many, race day represents months of training. For others, it’s a first step toward a healthier lifestyle. And for the nonprofit partners involved, it’s a powerful opportunity to raise awareness and funding for missions that serve the greater Austin community.
There may be other races in Texas, but few combine the scale, scenery, live music, and charitable impact quite like the Ascension Seton Austin Marathon.
On February 15, 2026, downtown Austin won’t just host a race — it will host a celebration of endurance, music, and the collective spirit that has defined the event for 35 years.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.