Calling all runners! The Annapolis Running Festival is right around the corner, taking place on March 21, 2026. As the festival enters its fourth year, the state’s capital running scene continues to grow. Whether you’re looking for a straightforward 5K or the challenge of a half-marathon, the festival offers scenic and challenging courses for first-time runners and experienced competitors alike.
The Half-Marathon will be capped at a field of 1,200 runners, creating an intimate yet competitive experience. Taking runners on a 13.1 mile journey through downtown Annapolis, this course will feature landmarks like the Maryland State House, Naval Academy, Ego Alley, Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium, and waterfront views from the Severn River Bridge and the Baltimore & Annapolis Trail. Runners must be at least 13 years of age to compete in this race.
With an equal field size of 1,200 runners, the 10K race is open to those aged 10 and older. The 6.2-mile course begins at Navy–Marine Corps Memorial Stadium before heading down Main Street, circling Church Circle, and passing through City Dock. Runners will continue toward the Naval Academy Bridge before returning to the stadium finish line.
The 5K will have a slightly larger field of up to 1,500 runners and is open to participants ages five and older. The 3.1-mile course also begins at Navy–Marine Corps Memorial Stadium and heads toward City Dock for scenic waterfront views before turning back toward the stadium for the finish.
All participants will receive a shirt and medal, along with having hydration stations on the route and complimentary post-race snacks available. Walking is permitted, but time limits apply: 75 minutes for the 5K, two hours for the 10K, and 3.5 hours for the half-marathon.
For the running fanatics, the Chessie Challenge was created just for you! In order to complete the challenge, you must compete in three different races in the calendar year, all kicking off with the Annapolis Running Festival. From there, runners can compete in the Baltimore Ten Miler (June 6, 2026) or Baltimore Running Festival (Oct. 17, 2026), and the Ocean City Running Festival (Nov. 14, 2026). Upon completion of the challenge, runners will receive a special medal, exclusive gift, and a VIP tent post-race. Runners will receive a five-dollar discount on each race, with a virtual opportunity to compete as well.
Registration prices are as follows: the half-marathon (ages 13+) costs $114.98, the 10K (ages 10+) costs $87.60, and the 5K (ages 5+) costs $60.23. Virtual race options are available for $104.03 for the half-marathon, $76.65 for the 10K, and $49.28 for the 5K. Groups of 10 or more can create a “Social Team,” allowing participants to receive the discounted virtual rate for the in-person race.
It is important to note that there will be no packet pickup on the day of the race. Packets can be picked up Monday, March 16, in Timonium; Tuesday, March 17, in Rockville; Wednesday, March 18, in Columbia; and Friday, March 20, in Annapolis. The list of locations and packet pickup information can be found here.
Free parking will be available at Navy–Marine Corps Memorial Stadium. A gear-check area will also be provided for personal items. Water stations will be located along the course, and runners are permitted to wear headphones or earbuds.
With scenic routes, historic landmarks, and a growing field of participants each year, the Annapolis Running Festival continues to cement its place as one of our city’s premier running events.
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