Kentucky Derby Festival mini and Marathon

Lace up your running shoes for an unforgettable experience at the Kentucky Derby Festival mini and Marathon, set for April 25, 2026, in vibrant Louisville, KY. This long-standing tradition, celebrating its 53rd annual miniMarathon and 25th annual Marathon in 2026, offers distances for every runner: a full 26.2M marathon, a 13.1M miniMarathon, and a 5K on April 24, 2026, for those looking to kick off the race weekend early.

The course starts at Louisville Slugger Field, leading runners on an immersive tour through downtown Louisville, the historic Old Louisville neighborhood, and scenic sections of the Olmsted Park System. A truly unique highlight for all participants is the unforgettable run through the infield of the iconic Churchill Downs, home of the Kentucky Derby. While largely flat, making it the fastest marathon course in Kentucky, marathoners will navigate the Big Four Walking Bridge into Southern Indiana and traverse some climbs within Iroquois Park. Typical race day conditions in late April bring comfortable highs around 73F and lows around 52F, with a modest 21% chance of precipitation.

Runners consistently praise the incredible crowd support and festive atmosphere that defines this event, often described as a great race for all types of runners. Aid stations along the route provide water and Powerade to keep you fueled. The race culminates with a spirited finish at Lynn Family Stadium, where a post-race party awaits to celebrate your achievement. Finishing this Boston Qualifier race also offers the unique reward of a medal and, in some special years, a commemorative rose, truly making it a premier event.