The Nebraska State Fair Marathon is back for its 12th year on Saturday, August 29, 2026!
No need to be a marathon runner; there is a race distance for everyone in the family! Options include the Marathon, a Half-Marathon, Marathon Relay, 5K, 1-Mile Kid Run, Push Rim Wheelchair, and Handcycle.
All races will start and finish on the Nebraska State Fairgrounds in Grand Island, Nebraska, with a post-race celebration amidst the fair festivities.
Course Features & Highlights
- Festive Atmosphere: The unique blend of the race challenge and the excitement of the State Fair creates a memorable, community-driven experience.
- Marathon Relay: This community building opportunity appeals to the competitors as well as the social participants.
- Boston Qualifier: The full marathon course is a certified Boston Qualifier.
Participant Perks
Every participant receives:
- A commemorative finisher's medal
- A custom event shirt. Marathon, Half Marathon and Relay participants will receive a gender specific long sleeve tech shirt while the 5K and 1 Mile participants are sure to enjoy our super soft short sleeve shirt!
- Admission to the Nebraska State Fair
- Post-race snacks and beverages
- 1 FREE alcoholic (21+) or non-alcoholic beverage at any of the bars across the grounds
Registration fees
Prices are inclusive of mandatory charges, items, and fees
Marathon
Price changes in 3 months 16 days-
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Register for Marathon$88.00
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Half Marathon
Price changes in 3 months 16 days-
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Register for Half Marathon$77.25
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Relay Marathon
Price changes in 3 months 16 days-
4 people per team. For award eligibility coed teams must include at least 2 women.
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Register for Relay Marathon$270.78
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5K
Price changes in 3 months 16 days-
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Register for 5K$45.00
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Kids 1-Mile
Price changes in 3 months 16 days-
Geared towards kids, but kids of all ages are welcome!
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Register for Kids 1-Mile$28.87
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Arrival & Parking
Free parking for athletes and spectators is located in the Northwest parking lot off of State Fair Blvd.
Once parked, athletes and spectators should proceed to the Main Gate on State Fair Blvd for entry into the fairgrounds.
Event Schedule
Saturday, August 29, 2026
5:00 AM Bib Pickup Opens
6:20 AM Handcycle & Wheelchair Athletes Start
6:30 AM Marathon, Relay, Half Marathon Start
7:00 AM 5K Start
7:10 AM Kids 1-Mile
**The Marathon Course is open for 6 hours (6:30 am to 12:30 pm).
Spectator Tickets
Spectator tickets are required to view the beginning and end of the race and may be purchased in advance at a discounted rate. A password is required and will be included in the participant confirmation email following registration.
For assistance in purchasing spectator tickets, please contact the State Fair Box Office at 308-384-0151.
Contact information
- Event contact
- HAL Sports (on behalf of Nebraska State Fair Marathon) info@halsports.net
