Atlanta, known as “Running City USA,” is gearing up for another exciting year of marathons, half marathons, 5Ks, 10Ks, and trail runs.

With over 30 events organized by the Atlanta Track Club alone, plus a host of independent races, 2026 promises opportunities for runners of all levels to hit the pavement, trails, and iconic routes like the Beltline and Peachtree Road.

Check Out These Atlanta Races for 2026

Whether you’re training for a full marathon or joining a fun community 5K, here’s a comprehensive guide to the year’s top races in and around the city.

Dates and details are based on current announcements, but always check official sites for updates, registration, and weather-related changes.

January: Kicking Off the Year with Reverse Peachtree Energy

The year starts strong with a unique twist on Atlanta’s most famous race.

  • Atlanta Journal-Constitution Polar Opposite Peachtree Road Race (January 3): This 10K reverses the traditional Peachtree course, starting in Piedmont Park and ending at Lenox Square. It’s the second running of this event, limited to a few thousand participants for an intimate vibe. 0 25 Expect chilly temps and high energy to set the tone for 2026.

February: Marathon Weekend and Charitable Runs

February brings the big one: the Publix Atlanta Marathon Weekend, a staple for serious runners.

  • Publix Atlanta Marathon Weekend (February 28 – March 1): Includes the full marathon (26.2 miles), half marathon (13.1 miles), 5K, and kids’ events. The marathon and half start on Sunday, March 1, and double as the USATF Half Marathon Championships. Routes showcase downtown, historic neighborhoods, and Olympic sites. This event is an Abbott World Marathon Major qualifier and celebrates its 20th running.
  • Atlanta Mission 5K Race to End Homelessness (February 24): A 5K at Pemberton Place Greenspace supporting local homelessness initiatives.
  • Westside Beltline 10K/3K (February 7, tentative based on series pattern): Part of the expanded Beltline series, focusing on the west side with options for competitive runners and walkers.

March: Spring Blooms with Trail and Road Options

As temperatures warm, March sees a surge in shorter races and trail events.

  • Chattahoochee Road Race 5K/10K (March 7): A scenic run along the river in Sandy Springs, attracting 500-1,000 participants.
  • Bree’s Miles of Memories 5K and Fun Run (March 7): Held at Etowah River Park in Canton, honoring a local cause.
  • St. Patrick’s Parade 5K (March 14): The 11th annual event in Midtown, perfect for festive runners.
  • Marietta Shamrock Shuffle 5K (March 21): 10th annual walk/run starting at Marietta Square.
  • Pi Mile 5K Road Race (March 28): A fun, math-themed 5K at Georgia Tech.
  • HomeStretch Run the River (March 29): A Sunday race supporting housing initiatives.

April: Beltline Series and Earth Day Vibes

April highlights the Atlanta Beltline’s growing race series.

  • Northside Beltline 5K/3K (April 18): Kicks off the warmer months on the north side, open to walkers and families.
  • Run Like Hell 5K (April 4): 19th annual at historic Oakland Cemetery.
  • Brookhaven Bolt 5K (April 16): A community favorite in Brookhaven.
  • Georgia Brain Tumor Walk & Race 5K (April 25): At Zoo Atlanta, combining running with awareness.

May: Trail Focus and Memorial Day Runs

Trail enthusiasts will love May’s offerings.

  • Sunrise Marathon 5K/10K/13.1 (May 2): Scenic routes with stunning views for half marathoners and shorter distances.
  • All Comers Track & Field Meets (May 5, 12, 19, 26; June 2, 9): Free for members, open to all ages, including the Wingfoot Mile. 7 25
  • Georgia Peach Jam 5K Memorial Day Race (May 23): All-asphalt 5K at Little Mulberry Park.

June-August: Summer Sizzlers and Independence Day Classics

Beat the heat with early starts.

  • Possum Trot 10K (June 20): 48th annual at Chattahoochee Nature Center in Roswell. 23
  • Northside Hospital Peachtree Road Race (July 4): The 57th running of this iconic 10K, starting at Lenox Square and ending in Piedmont Park. Registration opens April 1.
  • Southside Beltline 8K/3K (August 1): New addition to the series, exploring the south side.

September-October: Fall Marathons and Festivals

Fall brings cooler weather and longer distances.

  • Bound for Boston Marathon & Half Marathon (September 6): Qualifier event in Johns Creek with waves starting from 5:30 a.m.
  • The Whiskey Run (September 7): A spirited 5K/10K/half with post-race festivities at El Tesoro.
  • I’m Bound for Boston Marathon & Half – Atlanta (September 26): Another qualifier in Decatur.
  • The Race Half Marathon & 5K (October 3): In East Point, with virtual options and community impact focus.
  • Silver Comet Marathon (October, TBD): Trail marathon in the Atlanta suburbs.

November-December: Holiday Wrap-Ups

End the year with festive runs.

  • Invesco QQQ Thanksgiving Day Half Marathon (November, TBD; typically Thanksgiving Day): ATC’s annual holiday classic with 5K and kids’ dash.
  • Eastside Beltline 12K/3K (December 5): Longest in the series, winding through the east side.
  • Dashing Through the Square 5K (December 19): 11th annual in Marietta.

In addition to these, look for trail series like Dirty Spokes events throughout the year (e.g., March at Harbins Park, April at Iron Hill) and obstacle races like the Spartan Trifecta Weekend (March 14-15) for those seeking variety.

Atlanta’s running community thrives on inclusivity, with many events offering walker-friendly options, youth programs, and charitable ties. Lace up and join the fun—2026 is set to be a record-breaker! For more details, visit organizers like the Atlanta Track Club or local running stores.

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