Marine Corps Marathon

OCT

25

2026

A large marathon organized by the U.S. Marines on an Arlington and Washington, D.C. course, known as "The People's Marathon" and notable for being the largest marathon without prize money.

Sun 25 Oct 2026

Arlington, Virginia

Website Registration

Marathon

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Marine Corps Marathon - Arlington, VA and Washington, D.C.

The Marine Corps Marathon is organized and managed by the U.S. Marines and takes place in Arlington, VA, and the nation’s capital. It is described by the organizer as the third largest marathon in the United States and one of the largest in the world. The event is also noted as the largest marathon that does not offer prize money and carries the nickname "The People's Marathon." The race has been called "the best marathon for beginners" in organizer materials.

Registration details for the 51st Marine Corps Marathon include a general registration opening on April 6, 2026. The listed standard rate for the 51st MCM is $240. The event includes a Military Service Members category. The required running pace is 14 minutes per mile and runners must pass through gauntlets as indicated on the event map. The organization states that registrations are final for 2026 and transfers or deferrals are not permitted; official deferments granted from the 2025 season will be honored for participation in 2026.

Other programs and entry options mentioned include charity partner entries with a bib deadline of July 31, a Runners Club for those who have completed at least five MCMs, a seeded runner qualification requiring a recent certified marathon result, a Teams competition, and optional refundable registration through TEAK with specific documentation rules. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.