Best Marathons to Run This Memorial Day Weekend 2026 (And the Shoes to Take You There)
Memorial Day weekend 2026 runs from Saturday, May 23 through Monday, May 25, and runners across the country are lacing up for some of the season's most exciting races. Whether you are chasing a personal record, a Boston qualifier, or simply a great race-day experience, there is something on the calendar for you.
Bayshore Marathon | Traverse City, MI | May 23, 2026
Since 1983, the Bayshore Marathon has sold out every year and for good reason. The flat, fast out-and-back course runs along the shores of Grand Traverse Bay, giving runners a genuine shot at a PR against one of the most scenic backdrops in the country. Whether you are hunting a Boston qualifier or just want a race that stays with you long after the finish line, Bayshore delivers both.
M&T Bank Vermont City Marathon | Burlington, VT | May 24, 2026
A New England marathon since 1989, the M&T Bank Vermont City Marathon starts at 7:15 AM at Waterfront Park and runs two 13.1-mile loops through Burlington, including ten miles along the Burlington Bike Path with views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains. It is a Boston qualifier, with more than 11 percent of last year's finishers earning a BQ time. A race expo, kids' mini-marathon, and post-race festival complete the weekend.
Buffalo Marathon | Buffalo, NY | May 24, 2026
The Buffalo Marathon starts at 6:30 AM and carries one of the highest Boston qualifying percentages in North America. The flat, fast course takes runners past Lake Erie, LaSalle Park, and Frederick Law Olmsted-designed parks before finishing in front of the Buffalo Convention Center. This year marks the 25th anniversary edition.
The Texas Triple | Dallas, TX | May 23, 24 & 25, 2026
For runners who want to make the most of all three days, the Texas Triple offers consecutive marathons at Bachman Lake in Dallas on May 23, 24, and 25. The flat, looped course keeps things simple, and the small intimate fields of 75 to 500 runners create a tight-knit community feel unlike any big city race.
Gear Up for Race Day: ANTA Running Shoes Built for Marathons
ANTA's running lineup is built for the demands of long-distance racing. Here are two shoes built exactly for long marathon runs.
ANTA C202 7
When you are standing at mile 20 and your legs are starting to argue with you, the ANTA C202 7 is the shoe that argues back on your behalf. Co-developed with Kenenisa Bekele, it is designed to make every stride feel more efficient than the last, giving you that extra push when the race gets hard. It is light, it is fast, and it is built for runners who show up with a time in mind and mean it
ANTA ZONE 2 90
Not everyone is racing to win. Some of us are racing to finish strong, enjoy the experience, and still be able to walk on Monday. The ANTA ZONE 2 90 is built for that runner. It absorbs the punishment of 26.2 miles so your legs do not have to, keeping you comfortable and responsive from the starting gun through the finish line celebration. If you are tackling the Texas Triple or just want a shoe that works as hard as you do without making you feel every mile afterward, this is your match.
Safety Tips for Running a Memorial Day Weekend Marathon
Hydrate early and often. Start the day before your race and take fluids at every aid station. By the time you feel thirsty, dehydration is already affecting performance.
Wear sunscreen. It may seem obvious, but sometimes the most obvious things are the easiest to forget. Use sweat-resistant SPF 30 or higher and consider a hat or visor, especially on open stretches like the Burlington Bike Path or Buffalo's lakeside miles.
Respect the heat. Dallas in late May can push into the upper 70F and 80F by mid-morning. If a heat advisory is in effect, adjust your pace accordingly.
Know the course. The Texas Triple has a small hill over the dam each loop, Vermont City has a notable mid-loop climb, and Buffalo winds through downtown and parkland. A quick review the night before eliminates surprises.
Listen to your body. Dizziness, nausea, or disorientation are signals to slow down and find a medical volunteer. Every race on this list has on-course medical support.
Carry identification. Write your name, emergency contact, and any medical information on the back of your bib so staff can respond quickly if needed.
Enjoy The Marathons This Memorial Day Weekend
Whether you are running, helping, or going out to watch the intimate Bachman Lake loops in Dallas to Burlington's scenic waterfront and Buffalo's landmark-lined streets, Memorial Day weekend 2026 has a race for every one. Find the right pair at here.
