2026 Essentia Health Fargo Marathon
The 2026 Essentia Health Fargo Marathon is scheduled for May 29–30, 2026, in Fargo, North Dakota, with all races beginning and ending just outside the FARGODOME at 33 17th Ave N. During late May in Fargo, participants can typically expect mild to warm spring weather, with temperatures often ranging from daytime highs in the 60s or 70s°F (15–25°C) to cooler evenings. This two-day road running event features five distinct live events, ranging from a celebratory Friday night 5K to a USATF-Certified marathon course that serves as a Boston Qualifier.
What is the schedule of events for the 2026 Essentia Health Fargo Marathon?
Friday, May 29, 2026
- →The Mark Knutson Friday Night 5K: 6:30 PM
Saturday, May 30, 2026
- →Marathon (26.2 miles): 7:00 AM
- →Half Marathon (13.1 miles): 7:15 AM
- →10K: 7:40 AM
What race distances are available?
- →5K (Friday night event)
- →Marathon (26.2 miles)
- →Half Marathon (13.1 miles)
- →10K
What are the course details for the different races?
- →The Marathon is a 26.2-mile USATF-Certified, Boston Qualifier course through Fargo streets, featuring live bands and DJs.
- →The Half Marathon is a 13.1-mile course recognized as one of the fastest in the region.
- →The 10K route winds through North Fargo neighborhoods before returning to the finish.
- →Interactive course maps are available via Google ↗ for the 5K, Google ↗ for the Marathon, Google ↗ for the Half Marathon, and Google ↗ for the 10K.
What is included with race registration?
- →Race number
- →Gear bag
- →Race shirt or hoodie (collected at the Expo)
Where and when can participants pick up their race packets?
The Expo is located at the FARGODOME, 1800 N. University Dr., Fargo, ND 58102.
- →May 28: 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM
- →May 29: 12:00 PM – 6:30 PM
The Expo is free and open to the public, featuring running tech, fitness apparel, and nutrition information.
Is there a gear check service available?
- →Gear check is provided for Marathon, Half Marathon, and 10K participants.
- →Participants must tear off the gear check tab attached to their bib and attach it to their bag at the drop-off located at the start/finish line.
- →Note: The event organizers are not responsible for lost or stolen items.
What are the qualifying standards for the Elite Runner Program?
Qualifying elites receive a dedicated front corral and a complimentary race entry based on the following recent standards:
- →Male Marathon: sub-2:27
- →Male Half Marathon: sub-1:11
- →Female Marathon: sub-2:59
- →Female Half Marathon: sub-1:25
- →Masters qualifying standards also apply.