Gettysburg Festival of Races

Lace up your shoes for a truly unique journey at the Gettysburg Festival of Races on April 26, 2026, in historic Gettysburg, PA. Offering a full marathon (26.2M), half marathon (13.1M), and a spirited 5K, this event beautifully intertwines athletic challenge with a profound sense of history. The course is renowned for its scenic beauty, winding through picturesque wooded backcountry roads, past tranquil fields and farms, and even crossing the historic Mason-Dixon line into Maryland and back. While runners will traverse some of the hallowed ground of the Gettysburg battlefield, be prepared for a hilly course featuring rolling elevations that demand respect, yet offer rewarding views throughout.

Starting and finishing near the Eisenhower Conference Center, this well-organized festival, held since 2011, provides a community-focused atmosphere where local supporters often line the route, cheering and even offering water. Runners consistently praise the gorgeous scenery and ample hydration options at aid stations, making for a well-supported experience. Typical race day conditions in late April bring pleasant highs around 67F and lows around 45F, with only an 18% chance of precipitation, offering ideal running weather.

Beyond the miles, participants are celebrated with commemorative medals featuring Gettysburg cannons and a quote from Abraham Lincoln, along with a free pint glass and beer for recovery. The Gettysburg Festival of Races is more than just a race; it's an opportunity to immerse yourself in a significant chapter of American history while conquering a challenging and beautiful course.