Carmel Marathon 2026: Everything You Need to Know

The Carmel Marathon Weekend is one of the Midwest's premier spring races - fast, well-organized, and perfect for runners chasing a Boston qualifier, a new PR, or their first marathon experience. With a beautiful route through Carmel's neighborhoods, the Arts and Design District, and the Monon Trail, it consistently ranks among the top spring races in the region.

Below is your guide to Carmel Marathon 2026 - key dates, distances, course notes, expo details, results, and race-weekend logistics, plus direct links to registration and event information.

Race Weekend Date and Distances

Race day: Saturday, April 18, 2026

Events and start times for Carmel Marathon Weekend 2026 include:

• Carmel Marathon presented by Ascension St. Vincent - 26.2 miles - 8:10 AM start
• Carmel Half Marathon - 13.1 miles - 8:10 AM start
• Carmel 10K - 6.2 miles - 8:00 AM start
• Carmel 5K - 3.1 miles - 8:00 AM start (with youth-friendly pricing)

Event Information and Course Maps

Each race distance has its own event page with course maps, elevation profiles, aid station details, swag previews, and awards information. Use the links below to dig into the specifics for your race.

• Marathon: Carmel Marathon presented by Ascension St. Vincent
• Half Marathon: Carmel Half Marathon
• 10K: Carmel 10K
• 5K: Carmel 5K

Each event page also links to an interactive course map, so you can preview turns, aid stations, and elevation before race day.

Course Overview: Fast, Scenic, and Runner-Friendly

The Carmel Marathon course is known for its fast and relatively flat-to-gently-rolling profile. The marathon and half marathon wind through Carmel's neighborhoods, vibrant Arts and Design District, and sections of the Monon Trail, giving you a mix of city energy and greenway calm.

Highlights of the course include:

• Shared start/finish area: All distances begin and end near the Palladium, making logistics simple for runners and spectators.
• Boston-qualifying course: The marathon is USATF-certified and consistently ranks among top races for Boston qualifying times.
• Wide roads and paved trail: Plenty of room to settle into pace and avoid congestion after the early miles.
• Spectator-friendly sections: Family and friends can catch you at multiple points near downtown Carmel and the Arts and Design District.

Expo and Packet Pickup

The Carmel Marathon Fitness Expo takes place on Friday, April 17, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM at 502 East Event Centre, 502 E. Carmel Drive. The expo is free and open to the public.

Important: All runners must pick up their packets at the expo. There is no packet pickup on race day. If you cannot attend the expo, a friend or family member can usually pick up your packet for you. Always check the official race communication for the latest policies.

Stop by the expo to:

• Pick up your bib, shirt, goody bag, and participant guide
• Browse vendors for shoes, apparel, fueling, and accessories
• Learn about regional races and running-related services
• Meet local running groups and event partners

Athletic Annex at the Expo: As an official race partner, Athletic Annex will have a booth at the expo. Come see us for last-minute marathon essentials, race-week fueling, gear advice, and help choosing the right shoes for race day and recovery.

Parking, Arrival, and Race-Morning Logistics

One of the advantages of running Carmel is the abundance of free parking garages and street parking within walking distance of the start/finish area.

General race-morning tips:

• Arrive 45 to 60 minutes early. This gives you time to park, use restrooms, warm up, and find your starting area without rushing.
• Follow event signage. Watch for race-day parking signs and road closures around City Center and the Palladium.
• Plan your meet-up point. Pick a visible landmark near the finish (such as the Palladium or a specific parking garage) for family and friends.

Aid Stations and On-Course Support

Carmel Marathon Weekend is known for reliable on-course support. Aid stations are typically spaced every 1.5 to 2 miles and include:

• Water
• Electrolyte drink
• Medical support at key locations
• Enthusiastic volunteers and community cheer sections

If you have specific fueling needs (gels, chews, etc.), bring your own system and use the aid stations to top off fluids.

Who the Carmel Marathon Is Perfect For

Carmel Marathon Weekend is a great fit if you are:

• Chasing a Boston qualifying time on a fast, certified course
• Targeting a spring PR at the marathon, half, 10K, or 5K distance
• Running your first marathon or half and want a mid-sized, friendly event
• Looking for a race with simple logistics, easy parking, and a single start/finish hub
• Part of a group with mixed abilities and goals (there is a distance for everyone)

Finisher Experience and Results

Expect a polished finish line experience designed around efficiency and celebration:

• Custom finisher medals for all distances
• Post-race refreshments and recovery area
• Photo backdrops near the Palladium and City Center
• Easy access for family to cheer you in and meet you after you cross the line

After race day, official results and photos are posted online so you can review your splits, compare to previous years, and share your performance.

Official results and photos: Carmel Marathon results and photos hub

Make It a Weekend in Carmel

If you are traveling in from out of town (or just want to make race weekend feel special), Carmel has plenty to explore:

• Carmel Arts and Design District - galleries, boutiques, restaurants, and coffee shops
• Midtown Plaza - outdoor seating, food, and gathering spaces
• Monon Trail - great for a shakeout run or post-race stroll
• Easy hotel access - multiple lodging options within a short drive of the start/finish

How to Register for Carmel Marathon 2026

For the most up-to-date details on pricing, start times, corrals, and race policies, always refer to the official registration page.

Visit the Official Carmel Marathon Website

Ready to commit? Secure your spot here:

Sign Up for Carmel Marathon 2026

Whether you are local to Central Indiana or traveling in for race weekend, Carmel Marathon 2026 offers a fast course, strong community support, and a race experience that is easy to come back to year after year.