Puffing Billy Running Festival
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Puffing Billy Running Festival
The Puffing Billy Running Festival is a two-day event in the Dandenong Ranges, Victoria, held on 12 and 13 September 2026. The festival continues a 40-year tradition of a foot race against the Puffing Billy steam locomotive that dates back to the 1980s.
Day one takes place at Emerald Lake Park and features a junior dash and a family 5 km run or walk. The festival finish precinct is located at the Puffing Billy Lakeside Visitor Centre within Emerald Lake Park and includes free massages, family entertainment, music and sponsor activities.
The main event is the 13.5 km Classic run from Belgrave to Emerald, where up to 3,000 participants race against two steam locomotives. Options for spectators and participants include an optional return locomotive journey for purchase and a free return bus shuttle back to the start line.
On-course and event services include electronic timing and results, a finisher medal and certificate, bag drop, drink stations (cup-free in 2026), on-course first aid, on-course road closures and photography available for purchase. The festival raises funds to support heritage restoration projects at Puffing Billy Railway. The event is managed by SingleTrack Events and is tied to the Puffing Billy Railway attraction and its historical mountain track between Belgrave and Gembrook. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
- 1.5 km Junior Dash
- 5 km Family Fun Run / Walk
- 13.5 km Classic run from Belgrave to Emerald
