2026 Florida Marathon Weekend

The 2026 Florida Marathon Weekend will take place on February 8, 2026, in Melbourne, Florida, along the scenic Indian River Lagoon waterfront on Florida's Space Coast. The event is centered around the half marathon distance, with a focus on the Health First Florida 1/2 Marathon. On race day, participants can expect partly cloudy skies with high temperatures in the mid-60s Fahrenheit and light winds, creating ideal conditions for a fast and enjoyable run. The half marathon course offers a flat, out-and-back route with consistent waterfront views, making it a popular choice for runners seeking a scenic and competitive race experience.

What distances are available for this event?

• →Half Marathon starting at 6:30 AM
• →Sunrise: 7:04 AM — expect pre-dawn start conditions requiring reflective gear
• →Sunshine State Lager 5 Miler starting at 7:00 AM
• →5K starting at 7:10 AM

What is the race day schedule?

• →Half Marathon start: 6:30 AM (3.5-hour time limit for walkers; 5-hour cutoff for all participants)
• →Sunshine State Lager 5 Miler: 7:00 AM
• →5K: 7:10 AM

What can participants expect along the course?

• →A scenic out-and-back route starting at Front Street Park in downtown Melbourne
• →Traverse eastbound across the Melbourne Causeway onto the barrier island, with a turnaround near Riverside Place
• →Gentle bridge crossings with minimal elevation change
• →Four extended straightaways providing opportunities for even pacing
• →Consistent waterfront views along the Indian River Lagoon and Indian River Boulevard (US-1)

What are the race day logistics?

• →Packet pickup available Saturday 10:30 AM–5:00 PM at Front Street Civic Center or Sunday morning starting at 5:15 AM until 10 minutes before your race start
• →No race-day parking permitted at Front Street Park or adjacent boat ramp—plan shuttle transportation or off-site parking
• →Technical shirts sold separately; not included with registration to reduce textile waste

What notable features are included in the event?

• →Live musical entertainment with up to 12 bands positioned along the half marathon route
• →Sustainability-focused event using recycled metals for finisher medals and comprehensive waste diversion practices
• →Post-race celebration at Front Street Park with craft beer sampling (Carib Brewery) and waterfront atmosphere
• →Officially recognized by Runner's World as "One of America's Top 10 Bucket List Waterfront Races"

Is the event walker-friendly?

• →Walker-friendly for all distances except the full marathon option (if offered)

What is the course terrain like?

• →Predominantly flat with only modest bridge inclines, characteristic of Florida's coastal geography

Is the course eligible for Boston Marathon qualification?

• →The course delivers consistent waterfront views and four extended straightaways, making it a potential Boston Marathon qualifying course for competitive runners

What is the significance of the event's branding?

• →Despite "Florida Marathon Weekend" branding, this event is primarily centered around the half marathon distance. The official race website consistently markets it as the "Health First Florida 1/2 Marathon," and course descriptions focus on the half marathon experience. While registration platforms list a full marathon option, the event's historical identity and promotional materials emphasize the half marathon as the flagship distance.