What to know about the 2026 Journal Sentinel Milwaukee Marathon

Apr 6, 2026 - 16:00

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What to know about the 2026 Journal Sentinel Milwaukee Marathon

The popular spring event, now with the Journal Sentinel as a title sponsor, includes a marathon and half-marathon on Saturday, April 11, and a 5K on Sunday, April 12.

Here's what else to know about the 2026 Milwaukee Marathon:

Is the course the same as the Milwaukee Marathon last year?

Yes, it is the same course as 2025, with no changes to the full, half or 5K. The races starts on North Harbor Boulevard near the Summerfest grounds, then flow up Lincoln Memorial Drive and the Oak Leaf Trail before reversing course. The final six miles run through the Third Ward and Walker's Point before ending at Humboldt Park in Bay View.

Here is the course map.

What time do the races start?

The marathon and half-marathon start at 7 a.m. April 11. The 5K starts at 8:30 a.m. April 12.

Where is the biggest elevation on the course?

There is the incline stretch on Lincoln Memorial Drive as it turns onto Water Tower Road, and there's also a slight incline when going up the Oak Leaf Trail.

What is the surface of the run?

The entire course is paved.

Is the race sold out?

There are no more spots available for the longer races, with about 1,450 runners in the full marathon and 3,500 in the half. However, the 5K is still open with about 750 registered participants as of April 2.

Where can runners pick up their packets?

Packets can be picked up at the Baird Center on Friday, April 10, from noon-6 p.m. You will not be able to pick up your packet on race day.

There will also be a free, three-mile shakeout run, hosted by Performance Running Outfitters, on April 10 that starts at 11 a.m. at the Baird Center. RSVP: https://events.sweatpals.com/b7632be1.

Women's winner Krista Staley approaches the finish line in Humboldt Park during the 2025 Milwaukee Marathon.

Is the Milwaukee Marathon course a Boston Marathon qualifier?

Yes. The Journal Sentinel Milwaukee Marathon is certified by USA Track and Field, making it a qualifier for the Boston Marathon.

The 2026 Boston Marathon is April 20, and registration has passed. The race is always on Patriot's Day in Boston, the third Monday in April.

Qualifying for the 2027 Boston Marathon began September 13, 2025, and lasts for almost a year. Qualifying standards for men's, women's and non-binary age groups can be found on the race's website.

Why is there a five-hour time limit for Milwaukee Marathon racers?

The permit to close Lincoln Memorial Drive has a time limit. Organizers will have a vehicle if any runner needs assistance to stay within the five-hour time limit.

What is a good spot to watch the marathon?

Any business along Kinnickinnic Avenue in Bay View would be cool. Since that is near the end of the race, the runners will be going through there later in the morning.