The Great American River Run 2026

The 2026 Great American River Run takes place on Saturday, May 23, 2026, in Downtown Memphis, Tennessee, along the scenic banks of the Mississippi River. Held during Memorial Day weekend, participants can expect typical late-spring weather in Memphis, which often features warm temperatures and moderate humidity, making it ideal for outdoor athletic activities. This ninth edition of the road race offers a flat course through the city streets, accompanied by live music along the route and a post-race celebration.

What distances are available for the 2026 Great American River Run?

• →5K: Open to all experience levels, including walkers
• →10K: Intermediate distance road race
• →Half Marathon: 13.1-mile long-distance course

What is the race day schedule?

• →Gear Check: Opens at 5:30 AM at AutoZone Park
• →Race Start Time: 7:00 AM
• →Start and Finish Line: Located in Downtown Memphis

What prizes and awards are offered for each category?

• →5K: 1st place receives $500 cash; all finishers receive a soft-style race shirt and a 5K medal
• →10K: 1st place receives $500 cash; all finishers receive a soft-style race shirt and a 10K medal
• →Half Marathon: Cash prizes for top finishers (1st: $1,250, 2nd: $750, 3rd: $500, 4th: $250, 5th: $100); all finishers receive a soft-style 13.1 race shirt and a 13.1 medal

What is included in the post-race celebration?

• →All participants across all distance categories are invited to a post-race party featuring:
• →Sliders
• →Cupcakes
• →Beer

When and where is the Pre-Race Expo held?

• →Location: Renasant Convention Center, 255 N Main St, Memphis
• →Date: Friday, May 22, 2026
• →Expo Hours: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM