2026 20th Abebe Bikila Marathon & Half
The Abebe Bikila Marathon & Half winds along the historic C&O Canal Towpath.
Race Date
Sep 5, 2026
Location
Washington, DC
Quick facts
- Date
- Saturday, September 5, 2026
- Location
- Washington, District of Columbia
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi)
- Course
- Loop Course
- Terrain
- Trail
- USATF certified
- Not listed
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
The Abebe Bikila Marathon & Half offers a unique journey along the historic C&O Canal Towpath in Washington, D.C. This race, first run in 2012 and now in its 14th edition, provides a scenic and relatively flat course that is well-suited for runners seeking a peaceful yet challenging race environment.
Runners typically experience a course that is predominantly unpaved, following the natural contours of the canal towpath. While not a large-scale event, with a median of around 180 finishers, it draws participants from approximately 12 states, suggesting a dedicated following. The race's heritage is tied to its unique location, offering a different kind of running experience compared to typical urban marathons.
With typical race-day temperatures in the comfortable mid-60s to low-80s, the Abebe Bikila Marathon & Half presents an opportunity for a solid performance on a course that, while not designed for record-breaking speeds due to its terrain, offers a rewarding experience for those who appreciate history and natural beauty.
Race-provided description
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Logistics
Race Day
Saturday, September 5, 2026
Start Time
12:00 PM
Start Location
Washington, DC, 20007
Course Info
Course Type
Loop Course
Terrain
trail
Scenery
Lake River
Surface
Dirt Trail
Difficulty
Ultra-Flat
Quality Score
Solid Pick4414 years running
~180 finishers a year
shrinking
0% returning runners
2 timing sources
runners from 12 states
winner 1:28:39
typical high 83°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
64°
Afternoon (High)
83°
Hot conditions — adjust pace expectations, prioritize hydration
0.1"
Precipitation
9 mph
Wind
68%
Humidity
About the Organizer
Frequently asked
When is the 2026 20th Abebe Bikila Marathon & Half?
The 2026 20th Abebe Bikila Marathon & Half is held on Saturday, September 5, 2026, starting at 12:00 PM.
Where does the 2026 20th Abebe Bikila Marathon & Half take place?
It takes place in Washington, District of Columbia.
What distances does the 2026 20th Abebe Bikila Marathon & Half offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles).
Is the 2026 20th Abebe Bikila Marathon & Half course flat and good for a PR?
The 2026 20th Abebe Bikila Marathon & Half is a ultra-flat, loop course course.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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