2027 PHILADELPHIA DISTANCE RUN
Philadelphia Distance Run: 6 world records on a fast, flat course through the city.
Expected Race Date
~Sep 2027
Date not yet announced — this is when the race usually runs.
Location
Philadelphia, PA
Quick facts
- Date
- around September 2027 (expected)
- Location
- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi)
- Course
- Point to Point
- Terrain
- Road
- USATF certified
- Not listed
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
Since 1978, the Philadelphia Distance Run has earned its reputation as one of the world’s premier half marathons. With a recent field of ~3,570 runners from 39 states and a loyal 26% returning each year, it’s a fall destination that delivers. The USATF-certified course is famously flat and fast—six world records have been set here—making it a prime PR opportunity for everyone from elites to first-timers.
The point-to-point route winds through Philadelphia’s historic streets, offering a tour of the city’s past and future. September weather typically sees mild temperatures in the low 70s. After crossing the finish, runners celebrate with a post-race party and a complimentary beer, with a finisher’s medal and race tech tee as keepsakes. It’s a well-organized, community-driven event that balances big-race energy with hometown warmth.
Race-provided description
[image: https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6570a7492fe3a85f96f2c44b/5bb34d57-e2a8-4976-9315-bc62c2e2b25a/Y50PV5yw.jpg]
9.20.2026
Half Marathon & 5K
REGISTER NOW (https://runsignup.com/Race/Info/PA/Philadelphia/PhiladelphiaDistanceRun)
Philly’s Past & Philly’s Future
The PDR was founded in 1978 and remains one of the world’s premier Half Marathons. We welcome runners and athletes of all abilities and paces to come to Philadelphia and experience our PR-friendly course regardless of what your goals are. Set on the third Sunday in September, the PDR has long been one of the great fall tune up races going into marathon season and a perfect destination race for a weekend spent in the city of Brotherly Love.
REGISTER NOW (https://runsignup.com/Race/Info/PA/Philadelphia/PhiladelphiaDistanceRun)
[image: Philadelphia Distance Run Pace Team https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6570a7492fe3a85f96f2c44b/d5a4b83d-8b19-4335-a1b9-554ae5c12262/2308_pdr_race-29535.jpg]
Course
Logistics
Race Day
around September 2027 (expected)
Start Time
TBA
Start Location
2600 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, Philadelphia, PA, 19130
Course Info
Course Type
Point to Point
Terrain
road
Scenery
Urban
Difficulty
Ultra-Flat
Quality Score
Standout775 years running
~2,947 finishers a year
growing or steady
26% returning runners
USATF certified · 5 timing sources · 8 photos
runners from 39 states
winner 1:01:01
typical high 78°F
Frequently asked
When is the 2027 PHILADELPHIA DISTANCE RUN?
The 2027 PHILADELPHIA DISTANCE RUN hasn't announced its next date yet, but it typically takes place around September 2027 (expected).
Where does the 2027 PHILADELPHIA DISTANCE RUN take place?
It takes place in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
What distances does the 2027 PHILADELPHIA DISTANCE RUN offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles).
Is the 2027 PHILADELPHIA DISTANCE RUN course flat and good for a PR?
The 2027 PHILADELPHIA DISTANCE RUN is a ultra-flat, point to point course.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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