YMCA Harrisburg Marathon, Half, and Relay Presented by Enders Insurance
The YMCA Harrisburg Marathon offers a fast, flat Boston-qualifier course with big-city energy.
Race Date
Nov 8, 2026
Location
Harrisburg, PA
Quick facts
- Date
- Sunday, November 8, 2026
- Location
- Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi) + 26.2 Miles, 13.1 Miles
- Course
- Loop Course
- Terrain
- Mixed
- USATF certified
- Not listed
- Finishers on record
- 1,316
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
Now in its 54th year, the YMCA Harrisburg Marathon and its half-marathon counterpart have earned the affectionate nickname “Mini-Boston.” This race is a true stepping stone to the iconic Boston Marathon, boasting a certified course designed for speed. Runners can expect a fast, flat route that winds through the diverse landscapes of Pennsylvania's capital.
The course offers a dynamic mix, transitioning from urban streets to shaded forested paths, and crossing bridges that showcase the city's unique riverfront setting. This variety keeps the ~931 finishers engaged as they navigate the ~0 ft of elevation change.
With energy mirroring its namesake, Harrisburg's heart comes alive on race day. Thousands of spectators line the course, cheering runners all the way to the finish line. This event, drawing participants from approximately 23 states, offers a significant challenge and a rewarding experience for those chasing personal bests or a coveted Boston Qualifier.
Race-provided description
Celebrate 54 years of the YMCA Harrisburg Marathon, Half & Relay with us! This Boston-qualifier has been affectionately dubbed the “Mini-Boston” — not just in being a stepping stone to one of the most prestigious races in the country, but because Harrisburg’s heart comes alive as thousands of runners and spectators cheer you on throughout the course all the way to the finish line. This fast, flat marathon winds through urban street, forested paths, across bridges, and through natural features unique to Pennsylvania’s capital city on the river.
Logistics
Race Day
Sunday, November 8, 2026
Start Time
8:15 AM
Giveaway
Participant Shirt
Start Location
Harrisburg City Island, Harrisburg, PA, 17101
Course Info
Course Type
Loop Course
Terrain
mixed
Scenery
Urban, Forest
Surface
Paved, Dirt Trail
Difficulty
Ultra-Flat
Net Drop/km
0 m (Flat)
Separation
0.0%
Also Offers
Course Map
Quality Score
Standout674 years running
~720 finishers a year
growing or steady
10% returning runners
5 timing sources · 8 photos
runners from 23 states
winner 1:09:08
typical high 62°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
43°
Afternoon (High)
62°
Pleasant conditions — light layers at start, comfortable by finish
0.1"
Precipitation
10 mph
Wind
70%
Humidity
Historical Finish Times
How 1,316 finishers actually crossed the line across 4 years.
Most recent
2025
Total finishers
1,316
Median time
2:04:29
Latest turnout
470
States
32
Turnout by year
2022–2025
Hover the histogram to inspect specific finish times.
Race Photos
Frequently asked
When is the YMCA Harrisburg Marathon, Half, and Relay Presented by Enders Insurance?
The YMCA Harrisburg Marathon, Half, and Relay Presented by Enders Insurance is held on Sunday, November 8, 2026, starting at 8:15 AM.
Where does the YMCA Harrisburg Marathon, Half, and Relay Presented by Enders Insurance take place?
It takes place in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.
What distances does the YMCA Harrisburg Marathon, Half, and Relay Presented by Enders Insurance offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles), plus 26.2 Miles, 13.1 Miles.
Is the YMCA Harrisburg Marathon, Half, and Relay Presented by Enders Insurance course flat and good for a PR?
The YMCA Harrisburg Marathon, Half, and Relay Presented by Enders Insurance is a ultra-flat, loop course course.
How many people run the YMCA Harrisburg Marathon, Half, and Relay Presented by Enders Insurance?
HalfRuns has finish records for 1,316 runners who have completed the YMCA Harrisburg Marathon, Half, and Relay Presented by Enders Insurance.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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