Grandma's Marathon
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Event overview
Grandma’s Marathon is an annual race weekend based in Duluth, Minnesota. The main events include a full marathon and a half marathon that run along the shores of Lake Superior on a relatively flat and fast course. The marathon weekend draws more than 20,000 participants from over 50 countries and all 50 U.S. states. The event dates listed for 2026 include June 20 for the marathon and half marathon and June 19 for the William A. Irvin 5K.
Weekend races and features
- 26.2 miles - Grandma’s Marathon (June 20, 2026)
- 13.1 miles - Garry Bjorklund Half Marathon (June 20, 2026)
- 3.1 miles - William A. Irvin 5K (June 19, 2026)
- Great Grandma’s Challenge - 5K Friday, plus full or half marathon Saturday
The Garry Bjorklund Half finishes in Canal Park. The William A. Irvin 5K starts and finishes near the William A. Irvin ore boat in Canal Park. Race weekend includes auxiliary events such as a fitness expo, spaghetti dinner, music festival, and kids races. The Young Athletes Foundation runs year-round youth programs, races, grants, scholarships, and volunteer-supported events tied to the race organization. Tens of thousands of spectators line the course on race day. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.