The 2026 DONNA Marathon Weekend takes place from January 30 to February 1, 2026, in Jacksonville Beach, Florida. Participants can expect typical late-winter weather conditions in Jacksonville, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-40s to low-60s Fahrenheit (approximately 7–16°C) and low humidity, creating favorable conditions for running. The event features a series of road races along flat, fast coastal courses through Jacksonville Beach and nearby seaside communities, designed to support the mission of finishing breast cancer. The atmosphere is community-driven, with strong local support and emotional tributes throughout the courses.
What is the theme and mission of the 2026 DONNA Marathon Weekend?
The event operates under the theme “Destination: Love” and is devoted to the mission of finishing breast cancer. It benefits The DONNA Foundation, which provides financial relief, care coordination, and research funding for individuals and families affected by the disease nationwide.
What dates does the event take place?
The event spans from January 30 to February 1, 2026.
Where is the event located?
The event takes place in Jacksonville Beach, Florida, United States, with races along coastal roads through Jacksonville Beach and nearby seaside communities.
What race distances are available?
→DONNA 110 Ultra Marathon (110 miles, 2-day stage race) on January 31–February 1, 2026
→26.2 with DONNA – The National Marathon to Finish Breast Cancer on February 1, 2026
→The DONNA Half Marathon on February 1, 2026
→5K and DONNA Dash on January 30–31, 2026
What are the start times and cutoff times for the races?
→26.2 with DONNA (Marathon): Cutoff time is 7 hours (16 min/mile pace)
→The DONNA Half Marathon: Cutoff time is 7 hours (32 min/mile pace)
→5K and DONNA Dash: Specific start times not provided in keywords
What are the course characteristics for the main races?
→DONNA 110 Ultra Marathon: Road and beach pavement terrain; starts at Jacksonville Beach Seawalk Pavilion; Stage 1 is approximately 83.8 miles; Stage 2 joins the marathon course on Sunday
→26.2 with DONNA (Marathon): USATF-certified, Boston Marathon–qualifying route; fast, flat road course across three coastal communities
→The DONNA Half Marathon: Road course through Jacksonville Beach with scenic ocean views
Are there special divisions or categories?
→Adaptive Athletes division (Brooks Rehabilitation) available for the marathon and half marathon
→Rucking division (GORUCK) available for the marathon and half marathon
→Finisher medal (including special belt-buckle medal for DONNA 110 Ultra Marathon)
→Access to Health & Wellness Expo for packet pick-up
→Event challenges available for cumulative finisher rewards when combining multiple races
How much does registration cost?
→Fees vary by event and registration window, ranging from approximately $55–$130
→Monthly Giving Society Members receive discounted entry (example: $75 marathon / $55 half marathon)
→Registration opens July 8, 2025
Are there fundraising incentives?
→Participants raising $1,000+ receive exclusive Jeff Galloway coaching resources and gear perks
What is The DONNA Foundation?
→Founded by Donna Deegan, a three-time breast cancer survivor and journalist
→Provides financial relief, care coordination, and research funding for those battling breast cancer
→Since 2003, has served 20,000+ families, providing over $6.5 million in aid and $3.3 million toward research
What amenities are available during the event?
→Basecamp at Hampton Inn Jacksonville Beach for the DONNA 110 Ultra Marathon
→Health & Wellness Expo for race packet pick-up, merchandise, and wellness exhibits
→Live cheering and motivational signage along marathon and half marathon courses
→Strong community involvement and support throughout all races
What makes the event atmosphere unique?
The event embodies unity and compassion with the theme “love is stronger than fear.” Each mile is lined with supporters, survivors, and heartfelt tributes, creating an uplifting atmosphere for all participants from 5K finishers to ultra runners.
