The capital is laced up. On the weekend of 11–12 April 2026, thousands of runners will descend upon John Dunmore Lang Place for the Canberra Times Marathon Festival, presented by TCS. The event is a highlight of the Australian calendar notably for those seeking a fast, flat and scenic course that works its way through the heart of our city. 

The festival atmosphere is designed to push you toward that finish line with a smile whether you’re partaking in your first event or pushing for an age bracket ranking.

 

A Distance for Every Ambition 

The festival spans two action-packed days, ensuring there is a start line for every pace and ability. 

  • The Big Dance (Sunday): The centerpiece TCS Marathon and the Half Marathon take place on Sunday morning. 
  • Family & Community (Saturday): Saturday is all about the shorter bursts of speed and family fun. The Runner’s World 10K and Charterpoint 5K offer a great atmosphere for social runners, while the Kids Dash gives the youngest athletes their moment of glory. 
  • Race Ready Support: New to the distance? The Race Director is hosting a course overview and start-line walk-through on Saturday to help marathoners and half-marathoners settle those race-day jitters.

The Festival Expo 

The heart of the weekend is as much on the track as off it. The Festival Expo, running from April 10–12 will be displaying leading brands in everything running, recovery and health science. Even if you aren’t running, the Expo is a free, high-traffic celebration of the sport. 

  • Gear & Innovation: Check out the latest from exhibitors like Fixx Nutrition, GU Energy, and mapleROO for your fueling needs. For gear, explore Knockaround sunglasses, Sub4 apparel, and the Sole Motive Race Ready Store. 
  • Recovery & Science: Visit the Dopamine Lab for compression recovery sessions or VELOUS Footwear to learn about Tri-Motion™ recovery technology. Experts from The Walking Clinic and The Canberra Physio Clinic will also be on-site for last-minute strapping and footwear advice. 
  • The Running Hub: Saturday will feature live Q&As with elite athletes and expert tips on overcoming common hurdles like knee pain and speed plateaus.

Running with Purpose 

The Canberra Times Marathon Festival is more than just a race; it’s a massive fundraising engine. This year, the community is aiming to raise $250,000 for over 250 charities. 

Participants are currently rallying behind causes like Variety – the Children’s Charity, Beyond Blue, and the Indigenous Marathon Foundation (IMF)—the latter founded by local legend Robert de Castella to celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander achievement through running. Every kilometer logged will help move the needle. 

 

EVENT INFORMATION: 

John Dunmore Lang Place, Canberra 

11-12 April 2026
Registration: Last minute entries are still open until Apr 11 

Find out more HERE