Runners Rejoice! Full Marathon Will Return to Cedar Rapids

Runners, take your mark, get set, and wait...until 2026.

Cedar Rapids Tourism and city officials announced on Wednesday that the inaugural Cedar Rapids Marathon will be held on June 7, 2026, according to the Cedar Rapids Gazette. The Cedar Rapids Marathon weekend will also include a half-marathon, 10K, 5K, and a children's run. City leaders called it a "big day" for Cedar Rapids.

Will a Marathon Make it in Cedar Rapids?

If a marathon event sounds familiar, that is because Eastern Iowa has seen one before. The Gazette reports that Run CRANDIC, a 26.2-mile run that started and finished in Iowa City, was held in 2018 and 2019 but then was interrupted by COVID. The race did return in 2022 before disbanding because of logistical and staffing issues.

What Will the Route of the Cedar Rapids Marathon Be?

The Gazette reports that the Cedar Rapids Marathon will start and finish in the Kingston Yard area. Runners will travel through Czech Village and Newbo districts, and along the riverfront and local trails.

READ MORE: August Events in Eastern Iowa

When Can I Sign Up to Run the Cedar Rapids Marathon?

Registration is already open! You can sign up to be a runner HERE. Prices will increase as we get closer to the date of the race. The Gazette also reports that the Cedar Rapids Marathon will be a qualifier for the Boston Marathon.

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There are two marathons yet to take place this year in Iowa. Marathon Guide lists the Wabash Trace Marathon in Shendendoah on September 13, and the IMT Des Moines Marathon on October 13.