2026 Carlsbad Marathon, Half Marathon, 5K

The 2026 Carlsbad Marathon, Half Marathon, and 5K will take place on Sunday, January 18, 2026, in Carlsbad, California. The race will unfold along the city’s scenic coastal streets, offering miles of ocean views and a well‑supported course. Typical winter weather in Carlsbad on that day shows average highs near 60 °F (15 °C) and lows around 45 °F (7 °C) with a modest chance of light rain. Participants can expect a structured schedule featuring multiple distances, a comprehensive race package that includes apparel and swag, and on‑course entertainment and support stations.

What distances are available for this event?

• →Full Marathon – 26.2 miles – starts at 6:15 AM
• →Half Marathon – 13.1 miles – starts at 7:45 AM
• →5K – 3.1 miles – starts at 6:40 AM
• →Double Down Challenge – 5K + Half Marathon – starts at 6:40 AM (5K) and 7:45 AM (Half)
• →Virtual Marathon – 26.2 miles – starts at 6:15 AM
• →Virtual Half Marathon – 13.1 miles – starts at 7:45 AM
• →Virtual 5K – 3.1 miles – starts at 6:40 AM
• →Virtual Double Down Challenge – 5K + Half Marathon – starts at 6:40 AM (5K) and 7:45 AM (Half)

How much does registration cost?

• →Full Marathon – $202.27
• →Half Marathon – $179.67
• →5K – $73.45
• →Double Down Challenge – $220.35
• →Virtual Marathon – $202.27
• →Virtual Half Marathon – $179.67
• →Virtual 5K – $73.45
• →Virtual Double Down Challenge – $220.35

What is included in the registration package?

• →Long‑sleeve technical‑fabric shirt
• →Premium technical‑fabric ¼‑zip pullover
• →Souvenir reusable grocery bag
• →Finishers medal
• →One‑day pass to the invite‑only Carlsbad Columbia Sportswear Employee Store
• →Additional swag and event‑specific items

What support and amenities are available on race day?

• →Water and electrolyte stations every 2–3 miles
• →Medical tents and first‑aid teams along the course
• →Portable toilets and rest areas at aid stations
• →Entertainment zones with live music and photo opportunities
• →Course marshals and volunteers guiding runners

What weather can participants expect on the race day?

• →Average high temperature: ~60 °F (15 °C)
• →Average low temperature: ~45 °F (7 °C)
• →Light rain probability: modest
• →Wind conditions: mild coastal breezes
• →Ideal dress: layered clothing, wind‑and‑water‑resistant outerwear

What are the race day start times?

• →5K – 6:40 AM
• →Full Marathon – 6:15 AM
• →Half Marathon – 7:45 AM
• →Double Down Challenge – 5K starts at 6:40 AM; Half Marathon starts at 7:45 AM

Are there virtual race options?

• →Yes, all distances are available virtually
• →Virtual participants receive a race kit and can run their own course
• →Virtual finishers are eligible for the same awards and swag as on‑site runners

What is the Double Down Challenge?

• →Combines the 5K and Half Marathon distances in a single event
• →Participants run the 5K first, followed by the Half Marathon on the same day
• →Total distance: 16.2 miles
• →Includes all standard race day amenities and swag

What awards or prizes are offered?

• →Official finishers medals for every distance
• →Recognition certificates for the Double Down Challenge
• →Swag packages for all participants, including apparel and reusable items
• →Special recognition for top finishers in each distance (details provided in the race guide)