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Twin Lights Half Marathon

Twin Lights Half Marathon

The Twin Lights Half Marathon offers coastal views and a challenging, rolling course through a historic Massachusetts seaside town.

Race Date

May 2, 2027

Location

Gloucester, MA

Standout70

Quick facts

Date
Sunday, May 2, 2027
Location
Gloucester, Massachusetts
Distance
Half marathon (13.1 mi)
Course
Out & Back
Terrain
Road
USATF certified
Yes
Finishers on record
7,764

Highlights

Atmosphere

Local CommunityGreat SwagWell Organized

Course

Scenic Route

The Experience

The Twin Lights Half Marathon winds through the picturesque coastal community of Gloucester, Massachusetts, offering glimpses of the Atlantic for much of its 13.1-mile route. First run in 2011, this race has become a local favorite, drawing participants from across the nation.

The course, while described by some as having "a perfect amount of hills," features rolling climbs and descents that test runners, particularly towards the end. Despite some reviews noting limited ocean views due to the terrain, others praise the "stunning scenery" and "ocean breeze." The race is USATF certified and has a net elevation drop, suggesting potential for fast times for those who train for its inclines.

With a median field size of around 857 finishers in its 14 editions, the Twin Lights Half Marathon offers a community-focused atmosphere. While the repeat-runner rate is low, the race is noted for its "well-organized" production and "brilliant race course design," making it a solid choice for those seeking a scenic and engaging half marathon experience.

Race-provided description

The Twin Lights Half Marathon offers a spectacular course with the seashore visible for much of the race's 13.1-mile route.

Logistics

Race Day

Sunday, May 2, 2027

Start Time

8:00 AM

Giveaway

Race Shirt

Start Location

Good Harbor Beach, Gloucester, MA, 01930

Directions

Course Info

USATF Certified

Course Type

Out & Back

Terrain

road

Scenery

Coastal

Surface

Paved

Difficulty

Rolling Hills

Net Drop/km

0 m (Flat)

Separation

0.0%

USATF Certified Course

MA19002BK

Relatively flat with minimal net elevation change. Loop course — start and finish are close together.

Quality Score

Standout70
Methodology
Heritage20/20

14 years running

Size15/15

~857 finishers a year

Momentum0/5

shrinking

Loyalty3/20

3% returning runners

Course & details10/15

USATF certified · 8 timing sources

National draw9/10

runners from 32 states

Front-pack speed3/5

winner 1:24:29

Weather10/10

typical high 58°F

Race Day Weather

5-year historical avg

Start (Low)

46°

Afternoon (High)

58°

Ideal racing weather — cool and comfortable

0.2"

Precipitation

13 mph

Wind

79%

Humidity

Historical Finish Times

How 7,764 finishers actually crossed the line across 14 years.

Most recent

2026

Total finishers

7,764

Median time

2:04:17

Latest turnout

537

States

45

10%
25%
75%
90%
1:10p50 median ≈ 2:004:20

Turnout by year

20192026

'19'20'21'22'23'24'25'26
See full results

Hover the histogram to inspect specific finish times.

Race Photos

Frequently asked

When is the Twin Lights Half Marathon?

The Twin Lights Half Marathon is held on Sunday, May 2, 2027, starting at 8:00 AM.

Where does the Twin Lights Half Marathon take place?

It takes place in Gloucester, Massachusetts.

What distances does the Twin Lights Half Marathon offer?

The half marathon (13.1 miles).

Is the Twin Lights Half Marathon course flat and good for a PR?

The Twin Lights Half Marathon is a rolling hills, out & back course. The course is USATF-certified, so finish times can be used for qualifying.

How many people run the Twin Lights Half Marathon?

HalfRuns has finish records for 7,764 runners who have completed the Twin Lights Half Marathon.

HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.

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