Detroit Free Press Marathon
Detroit Free Press Marathon: A fast, certified course drawing thousands across the US.
Race Date
Oct 18, 2026
Location
Detroit, MI
Quick facts
- Date
- Sunday, October 18, 2026
- Location
- Detroit, Michigan
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi) + 26.2M
- Course
- Point to Point
- Terrain
- Road
- USATF certified
- Yes
- Finishers on record
- 185,685
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
The Detroit Free Press International Marathon is a major event with a deep history, first run in 2004 and now in its 22nd edition. It draws a significant field, with recent races seeing over 10,700 finishers, and attracts runners from all 50 states, highlighting its status as a destination race.
This USATF-certified course is known for its speed, with a net drop and start/finish separation that favors fast times, making it a popular choice for those chasing personal bests. The race is held in early October, offering typical fall weather conditions.
With a loyal following, about 28% of participants return year after year. The marathon offers a substantial challenge and a rewarding experience for a large and diverse field of runners.
Race-provided description
Official Merch From jackets to winter caps, check out the best, official Detroit Free Press Marathon gear! SHOP HERE Become a volunteer! Sign up for volunteer shifts today and help the Detroit Free Press Marathon run smoothly. SIGN UP Partner Hotels
Course Info
USATF CertifiedCourse Type
Point to Point
Terrain
road
Scenery
Urban
Surface
Paved
Difficulty
Ultra-Flat
Net Drop/km
+0.09 m
Separation
3.9%
Also Offers
USATF Certified Course
MI25017MN · Detroit Free Press Half Marathon 2025
Relatively flat with minimal net elevation change. Loop course — start and finish are close together.
Quality Score
Runner Favorite9722 years running
~10,668 finishers a year
growing or steady
28% returning runners
USATF certified · 2 timing sources
runners from 51 states
winner 1:07:18
typical high 60°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
45°
Afternoon (High)
60°
Ideal racing weather — cool and comfortable
0.2"
Precipitation
14 mph
Wind
71%
Humidity
Historical Finish Times
How 185,685 finishers actually crossed the line across 22 years.
Most recent
2025
Total finishers
185,685
Median time
2:30:33
Latest turnout
10,729
States
51
Turnout by year
2018–2025
Hover the histogram to inspect specific finish times.
Frequently asked
When is the Detroit Free Press Marathon?
The Detroit Free Press Marathon is held on Sunday, October 18, 2026.
Where does the Detroit Free Press Marathon take place?
It takes place in Detroit, Michigan.
What distances does the Detroit Free Press Marathon offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles), plus 26.2M.
Is the Detroit Free Press Marathon course flat and good for a PR?
The Detroit Free Press Marathon is a ultra-flat, point to point course. The course is USATF-certified, so finish times can be used for qualifying.
How many people run the Detroit Free Press Marathon?
HalfRuns has finish records for 185,685 runners who have completed the Detroit Free Press Marathon.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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