Coastal Delaware Running Festival

Prepare for an unforgettable journey along the Delaware coastline at the Coastal Delaware Running Festival on April 11, 2026, in picturesque Rehoboth Beach, DE. This event offers a distance for every runner, including a 26.2M marathon (a Boston Qualifier and USATF certified course), a 13.1M half marathon, a unique 9K (billed as the only one of its kind in the state), a 5.59M, and a 5K. Runners consistently praise this festival for its superb organization and inviting atmosphere.

The courses are renowned for being flat and fast, making them ideal for setting a personal record or tackling your first marathon. Starting and finishing on the iconic Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk, the routes weave through charming neighborhoods, the tranquil Delaware Seashore State Park's Gordons Pond Wildlife Area, and scenic Cape Henlopen State Park, even passing historic Fort Miles. Expect a diverse array of surfaces, from paved roads and smooth crushed gravel paths to elevated boardwalks, all offering breathtaking views of the ocean, marshlands, and pine forests. Aid stations, stocked with water and Gatorade Endurance Formula, are strategically placed approximately every 1.5 to 2 miles to keep you hydrated and fueled. Typical race day conditions feature pleasant temperatures, with highs around 65F and lows around 44F, and a low 14% chance of precipitation.

Beyond the run, the Coastal Delaware Running Festival is celebrated for its exceptional runner experience. Participants receive impressive swag, including a distinctive stained-glass medal, a branded pint glass, and a stylish hat. The festivities continue with one of the best post-race parties, featuring complimentary pizza, pasta, salad, chicken fingers, and multiple beer tickets at Grotto Pizza. Free finish line photos and video capture your achievement. Attracting runners from across the country and even internationally, this event offers a welcoming, smaller race feel with fantastic community support, making it a truly memorable coastal running adventure.