2026 Colonial Half Marathon and 5K

What distances are available for this event?

• →Half Marathon (13.1 miles)
• →5K (3.1 miles)
• →Mini Half (approximately 1 mile)

What is the course like?

• →The course primarily consists of flat, paved city streets through Colonial Williamsburg.
• →There are brief sections on historic brick paths and a short gravel path near the Capitol Building.
• →The half marathon includes an out-and-back segment on Carters Grove Country Road.
• →Both the half marathon and 5K feature a challenging climb up "Fortitude Hill" on Nassau Street near the finish line.

What are the start and finish locations?

• →The half marathon and 5K start at the intersection of Nassau and Francis Streets, adjacent to the Dewitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum.
• →The mini half starts after the half marathon wave, running an out-and-back on Duke of Gloucester Street within the historic area.

What are the event highlights?

• →The race is deeply connected to Williamsburg's colonial heritage, with period-costumed Fife and Drum Corps providing musical escort at the start.
• →All finishers receive a long-sleeve performance shirt (guaranteed size for early registrants), a custom medal, and access to a post-race celebration with complimentary beer and pizza.

What charitable causes does the event support?

• →The event benefits the Daniel G. and Rosemary B. Stimson Track Endowment at William & Mary.
• →It also supports Heroes on the Water Tidewater chapter.

What is the time limit for the half marathon?

• →The half marathon has a 3.5-hour time limit.

What is included in registration?

• →Participants receive a long-sleeve performance shirt (guaranteed size for early registrants).
• →All finishers receive a custom medal.
• →Access to a post-race celebration with complimentary beer and pizza is provided.

What is the schedule for the event?

• →The half marathon and 5K start at the same location, with the half marathon beginning first.
• →The mini half is an untimed fun run for all ages, starting after the half marathon wave.

Are there any special features or traditions associated with the event?

• →The race begins with a musical escort by period-costumed Fife and Drum Corps.
• →The course passes through key historic sites in Colonial Williamsburg, such as the Governor's Palace, Capitol Building, and Duke of Gloucester Street.