2025 Stennis Space Center Marathon, Half Marathon, 5K

The 2025 Stennis Space Center Marathon, Half Marathon, and 5K will take place on Saturday, November 29, 2025, during Thanksgiving Weekend at Building 2411 Cypress House, Stennis Space Center in Pearlington, Mississippi. All races begin at 8:00 AM CST. Late November in Pearlington typically features mild temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to low 60s Fahrenheit, with potential for morning fog and a moderate chance of rain. Participants should prepare for cool, potentially damp conditions with layered clothing and weather-appropriate gear. The event offers three distinct race distances across a scenic, paved course around the Stennis Space Center perimeter, featuring flat terrain ideal for personal records, aid stations every two miles, and comprehensive medical support throughout the event.

What distances are available for this event?

• →Marathon (26.2 miles) - 18+ years old only, with a 6-hour time limit
• →Half Marathon (13.1 miles) - available for both runners and race walkers
• →5K (3.1 miles) - available for both runners and race walkers

Is the marathon course certified for Boston Marathon qualification?

Yes, the marathon is officially certified and qualifies for Boston Marathon entry standards.

How much does registration cost?

Marathon:

• →$50 (pre-entry until November 23)
• →$55 (late entry November 24–28)

Half Marathon:

• →$45 (pre-entry until November 23)
• →$50 (late entry November 24–28)

5K:

• →$30 (pre-entry until November 23)
• →$35 (late entry November 24–28)

What time do the races start?

All races begin at 8:00 AM CST on Saturday, November 29, 2025.

When and where is packet pickup available?

Pre-race packet pickup:

• →Friday, November 28, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM at the Mississippi Welcome Center (Pearlington, Hancock County, located at I-10 & Highway 607)

Race day packet pickup:

• →Available at Cypress House near the start line on race morning

What awards are offered?

Overall Awards:

• →Custom plaques for Overall, Master, Grand Master, and Senior Master categories (male and female divisions)

Age Group Awards:

• →Three-deep awards (1st, 2nd, 3rd place) for male and female categories across multiple age brackets (12 & under through 70+)

Race Walker Awards:

• →Top 3 finishers (male and female) in Half Marathon and 5K categories

Wheelchair Marathon Awards:

• →Custom plaques for top 3 finishers

Finisher Awards:

• →Handsome medallion for all marathon and half marathon finishers

Award Presentation Times:

• →5K awards: 8:45 AM
• →Half Marathon awards: 10:30 AM
• →Marathon awards: 1:00 PM

What is the marathon course like?

The marathon course covers 26.2 miles around the perimeter of Stennis Space Center on paved roads. The terrain is flat and fast, making it ideal for personal records. The scenic route winds through wooded areas with frequent wildlife sightings, offering a nature-immersed running experience.

What support is provided during the races?

Aid stations are positioned every approximately two miles throughout all race courses. Each station provides water, Gatorade, bananas, and portable restrooms. Medical support is staffed by AMR personnel with communications available at each aid station to ensure participant safety.

What is the time limit for the marathon?

The marathon has a 6-hour time limit for completion.

Can race walkers participate?

Yes, race walkers are welcome in both the Half Marathon and 5K events. Race walkers are eligible for top 3 finisher awards in their respective distances.

What should participants expect weather-wise on race day?

Late November in Pearlington typically features mild temperatures in the mid-50s to low 60s Fahrenheit. Participants should anticipate cool morning conditions with potential fog and a moderate chance of rain. Layered, weather-appropriate clothing is recommended.

What is included in the registration fee?

Registration fees include race entry, access to aid stations throughout the course, finisher medallions (for marathon and half marathon participants), eligibility for age group and category awards, and medical support staffed by AMR personnel.

Are there age restrictions for any events?

Yes, the marathon is restricted to participants 18 years of age and older. The Half Marathon and 5K are open to all ages.