Grandma's Marathon
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Event overview
Grandma’s Marathon is an annual running event held in Duluth, Minnesota, on the shores of Lake Superior. The page lists the next main race date as June 20, 2026. The marathon course is described as relatively flat and fast and draws more than 20,000 participants from over 50 countries and all 50 states. Tens of thousands of spectators provide support along the course. The weekend includes multiple events and festival-style activities such as a fitness expo, spaghetti dinner, and music festival.
Registration for the 2026 races opens on October 1. The event offers early-entry charity spots through the Young Athletes Foundation (YAF) and publishes results and weekend guides from prior years.
Races and related programs
- Marathon
- Half Marathon - 13.1 miles
- 5K - 3.1 miles
The Garry Bjorklund Half Marathon follows a 13.1-mile course along Lake Superior and finishes in Canal Park. The William A. Irvin 5K starts and finishes near the William A. Irvin ore boat in Canal Park. The Great Grandma’s Challenge pairs the 5K on Friday with either the full or half marathon on Saturday.
The Young Athletes Foundation (YAF) is the event’s charitable program. YAF reports more than $1.8 million in support for youth athletics, 3,250+ participants in free kids’ programming, $80,000+ in grants, 450+ pairs of free running shoes, and $5,000 in scholarships. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.