2027 Bethlehem Running Festival
Bethlehem Running Festival: a fast, net-downhill half marathon through historic streets and fall foliage.
Race Date
Oct 15, 2027
Location
Bethlehem, PA
Quick facts
- Date
- Friday, October 15, 2027
- Location
- Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi)
- Course
- Point to Point
- Terrain
- Road
- USATF certified
- Not listed
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
The Bethlehem Running Festival, now in its third edition, draws about 756 runners from 17 states—and 28% return each year. The half marathon is a USATF-certified, point-to-point course with a net downhill drop of -0.28 m/km, making it exceptionally fast. The route winds through historic Bethlehem, crossing the Fahy Bridge and finishing in front of the iconic Steel Stacks, all set against a backdrop of peak fall foliage.
The race is part of a multi-event weekend, including a 5K, 10K, trail run, and kids' run. Typical weather is cool and crisp (46–64°F), ideal for racing. The net downhill profile and flat terrain yield fast times, with a typical winning time around 1:07:42, making this a prime PR and BQ course. Runners receive a long sleeve tech shirt and a finisher medal.
With its small-town charm, scenic fall colors, and community-focused atmosphere, the Bethlehem Running Festival lives up to its billing as a bucket-list event. It's a well-organized festival that appeals to first-timers and seasoned racers alike.
Race-provided description
2026 Registration Opens Friday 10/24 at 7 AM!"Bethlehem should be on every runner's bucket list!" Join us for an unforgettable weekend of running in an historic town filled with quaint shops and delicious restaurants, all during peak fall foliage! *REGISTER BETWEEN 10/24 and 10/31 and GET THE LOWEST POSSIBLE PRICE!* Five events, including a Kids' Run! Aardvark Sports Shop 3.8 Mile Trail Run, Friday 10/16 @ 4:30 pmThis 3.8 Mile Trail Run will be an adventure for beginners and season trail runners alike!The Lehigh Valley Iron Pigs Kids Run, Friday 10/16 @ 5:30 pm now at ArtsQuest!The Kids Run will now take place on First Street in front of ArtsQuest! Runners 5 and under will run 1/4 mile, runners 6-8 will run 1/2 mile, and runners 9-12 will run 1 mile. All kids will receive a custom BRF Bib and unique BRF medal! The Lehigh Valley Iron Pigs, the AAA-affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies, are thrilled to sponsor the 2nd Annual Kids Run. Iron Pigs Mascot, FeFe, will be on hand to greet an…
Logistics
Race Day
Friday, October 15, 2027
Start Time
TBA
Start Location
101 Founders Way, Bethlehem, PA, 18015
Course Info
Course Type
Point to Point
Terrain
road
Scenery
Small Town
Surface
Paved
Difficulty
Ultra-Flat
Quality Score
Standout743 years running
~756 finishers a year
shrinking
28% returning runners
USATF certified · 4 timing sources
runners from 17 states
winner 1:07:42
typical high 64°F
Race Photos
Frequently asked
When is the 2027 Bethlehem Running Festival?
The 2027 Bethlehem Running Festival is held on Friday, October 15, 2027.
Where does the 2027 Bethlehem Running Festival take place?
It takes place in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania.
What distances does the 2027 Bethlehem Running Festival offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles).
Is the 2027 Bethlehem Running Festival course flat and good for a PR?
The 2027 Bethlehem Running Festival is a ultra-flat, point to point course.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
The weekly roundup
More races like Bethlehem Running Festival, every Thursday.
Standout upcoming half marathons and fresh results in one short email. Free, and one click to leave.
Explore More Journeys
Can't make it to Bethlehem? Discover other experiences that match your running style.
Search All RacesNearby States
