2026 National Women's Half Marathon and 8K
Washington D.C.'s National Women's Half Marathon offers a flat, fast course through scenic parkland.
Race Date
May 3, 2026
Location
Washington, DC
Quick facts
- Date
- Sunday, May 3, 2026
- Location
- Washington, District of Columbia
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi)
- Course
- Loop Course
- Terrain
- Road
- USATF certified
- Not listed
- Finishers on record
- 41,031
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
Held in the nation's capital, the National Women's Half Marathon and 8K begins and ends at West Potomac Park, offering a scenic route through Washington D.C.'s parklands. The course is known for its flat profile, making it an attractive option for runners aiming for personal bests.
With 8 editions on record and a growing field size, the event has drawn participants from approximately 39 states. The median field size is around 1,421 finishers, with recent editions seeing about 1,438 runners. A loyalty rate of about 15% indicates a dedicated following.
The race typically takes place in early May, with average temperatures ranging from 54–74°F, providing generally pleasant running conditions. The flat terrain and competitive field, with typical winning times around 71:48, contribute to its reputation as a fast course.
Race-provided description
The 7th Annual National Women's Half Marathon & 8K will be held on Sunday, May 3, 2026 in our Nation's Capital, and will start and finish at West Potomac Park in the heart of the excitement that is Washington DC! #NationalWomensHalf Event details and scheduleFollow The National Women's Half Marathon & 8K on Facebook and at NationalWomensHalf.events for race information.
Course Info
Course Type
Loop Course
Terrain
road
Scenery
Park
Surface
Paved
Difficulty
Ultra-Flat
Net Drop/km
0 m (Flat)
Separation
0.0%
Course Map
1 other map for this race
Quality Score
Standout749 years running
~1,278 finishers a year
growing or steady
16% returning runners
2 timing sources · 3 photos
runners from 36 states
winner 1:27:07
typical high 73°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
54°
Afternoon (High)
73°
Warm — hydration strategy is key, start conservatively
0.2"
Precipitation
11 mph
Wind
70%
Humidity
Historical Finish Times
How 41,031 finishers actually crossed the line across 9 years.
Most recent
2026
Total finishers
41,031
Median time
2:17:53
Latest turnout
1,278
States
51
Turnout by year
2014–2026
Hover the histogram to inspect specific finish times.
Race Photos
About the Organizer
Frequently asked
When is the 2026 National Women's Half Marathon and 8K?
The 2026 National Women's Half Marathon and 8K is held on Sunday, May 3, 2026, starting at 9:00 AM.
Where does the 2026 National Women's Half Marathon and 8K take place?
It takes place in Washington, District of Columbia.
What distances does the 2026 National Women's Half Marathon and 8K offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles).
Is the 2026 National Women's Half Marathon and 8K course flat and good for a PR?
The 2026 National Women's Half Marathon and 8K is a ultra-flat, loop course course.
How many people run the 2026 National Women's Half Marathon and 8K?
HalfRuns has finish records for 41,031 runners who have completed the 2026 National Women's Half Marathon and 8K.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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