2026 Annapolis Running Festival
The Kaiser Permanente Annapolis Running Festival is set to take place on March 21, 2026, in Annapolis, Maryland, with Celebration Village serving as the central hub for the event. The weather in Annapolis on this date is expected to be mild, with temperatures ranging from 45°F to 55°F and mostly clear skies. Participants can anticipate a scenic and challenging route that traverses the historic streets and parks of Annapolis, including a 1.5-mile trail section on the B&A Trail. The event offers multiple race distances, community engagement opportunities, and a vibrant race day atmosphere complete with live music and post-race celebrations.
What distances are available for this event?
- →Half-Marathon
- →10K
- →5K
- →Virtual Half-Marathon
- →Virtual 10K
- →Virtual 5K
What are the start times for each event?
- →Half-Marathon: 7:00 AM EDT
- →10K: 7:00 AM EDT
- →5K: 7:00 AM EDT
- →Virtual Events: Start at 7:00 AM EDT (flexible completion likely)
What are the registration fees for each event?
- →Half-Marathon: $131.40 (includes $11.40 fee). Price increases after March 15, 2026, at 11:59 PM EDT.
- →10K: $93.08 (includes $8.08 fee). Price increases after March 15, 2026, at 11:59 PM EDT.
- →5K: $65.70 (includes $5.70 fee). Price increases after March 15, 2026, at 11:59 PM EDT.
- →Virtual Half-Marathon: $104.03 (includes $9.03 fee)
- →Virtual 10K: $76.60 (includes $9.03 fee)
- →Virtual 5K: $49.28 (includes $9.03 fee)
What are the age requirements for each event?
- →Half-Marathon: Open to ages 13+
- →10K: Open to ages 10+
- →5K: Open to ages 5+
What is the course description for the Half-Marathon?
The Half-Marathon course is described as "challenging yet scenic," covering scenic streets and parks in Annapolis. It includes a 1.5-mile stretch on the B&A Trail, which supports the Friends of Anne Arundel County Trails.
What are the pace and cut-off requirements for the Half-Marathon?
Runners must maintain a 16-minute mile pace. The total time limit is 3 hours 30 minutes, with a finish line cut-off at 10:30 AM. Milestone split times are strictly enforced, with rolling road closures and encouragement for runners who cannot meet the time requirements to drop out at the nearest medical tent or water stop.
What is the race day schedule and event window?
All races start at 7:00 AM EDT. The event window runs from 7:00 AM to 1:00 PM, allowing for post-race activities and celebrations.
What is included in the registration fee?
The registration fee includes access to the event, race bib, timing chip, and participation in the race. Additional amenities such as post-race celebrations, live music, and a sock burning ceremony are available at Celebration Village.
What are the special challenges and bundles available?
Runners can save $5 per event by bundling into the following challenges:
- →BFD and Chessie Challenge
- →Black Eyed Susan Challenge and Chessie Challenge
- →Triple Challenge: Black Eyed Susan Challenge, BFD, and Chessie Challenge
- →Chessie Challenge with B10!
What community and charity partners are involved?
The event supports several local causes, including:
- →Annapolis Police Foundation: Features a "Charity Chaser" where an officer runs the event, earning donations for every runner they pass.
- →Friends of Anne Arundel County Trails: Beneficiary of funds raised via the Half-Marathon's use of the B&A Trail.
- →Athletes Serving Athletes (ASA): Connects community runners with athletes through the "Wingman Program" under the spirit of "Together We Finish!"
What amenities and facilities are available on race day?
Race day amenities include:
- →Live music
- →Raw bar (post-race celebration)
- →Sock burning ceremony
- →Cheering sections
- →Ample parking
- →Easy access to hotels and restaurants in Annapolis
What is the expected weather on race day?
On March 21, 2026, in Annapolis, the expected weather is mild, with temperatures ranging from 45°F to 55°F and mostly clear skies. Participants should prepare for comfortable running conditions with light layers.