Greater St. Louis Marathon Returns April 11, 2026, Showcasing Premier Midwest Running Experience

April 7, 2026

ST. LOUIS (April 7, 2026) /ENDURANCE SPORTSWIRE/ – The Greater St. Louis Marathon returns on April 11, 2026, bringing together more than 10,000 participants for one of the Midwest’s premier running events. Featuring a full slate of race distances, including the marathon, half marathon, 10K, 5K and family fun run, the event highlights St. Louis’ iconic landmarks, vibrant neighborhoods and strong community spirit.

Runners will begin their race at Market and 15th Streets, with most participants starting at 7 a.m., and finish at Chestnut and 18th Streets, where spectators will gather throughout the morning to welcome finishers.

“Welcome to all our participants who will be a part of the 2026 Greater St. Louis marathon weekend!” said Mona Vespa, GO! St. Louis President. “We’d like to thank our sponsors, community partners, volunteers and spectators who will all play a critical role in making this weekend one of the best participant events of the year in the city.”

Registration Still Available

Runners can register at https://gostlouis.org/

Event Expo Open to Public

The official race expo will take place at St. Louis Union Station, offering free admission to the public and packet pick up for participants. Expo hours are Thursday, April 9 from 3–7 p.m. and Friday, April 10 from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Notable Participants

This year’s race features a diverse group of business leaders, community figures and inspirational athletes, including:

• Lal Karsanbhai, CEO of Emerson, marathon title sponsor (half marathon)
• Kristin Johnson, COO of Edward Jones (half marathon)
• Alan Wilson, Inspirational stroke survivor (marathon)
• Alison Bourey, Local runner who survived heart attack last fall (half marathon)
• Amy Marxhors, KMOX radio personality (marathon)
• Ken Barnes, Illinois runner making a Guinness world record attempt wearing a vintage baseball uniform, carrying a baseball bat and fielder’s glove (half marathon)
• Brad Dean, President, Explore St. Louis (10K)

Economic and Tourism Impact

The Greater St. Louis Marathon continues to serve as a major economic driver for the region, generating more than $4.5 million annually in economic activity, including approximately $1.94 million in direct spending. More than 70% of this impact is driven by out-of-town participants, who spend an average of $690 per trip and stay for just over two nights.

Corporate and Community Partnerships

The marathon is supported by a strong network of sponsors and partners, including:

• Emerson, title sponsor of the event
• PNC Bank, returning title sponsor of the half marathon
• Washington University School of Medicine, official medical provider

Additional partners include Lockton, 4 Hands Brewing Co., KSDK-TV, Greater St. Louis Inc., RGA, St. Louis Magazine, Drury Hotels, NISA Investment Advisors and St. Louis Union Station.

These partnerships enhance the overall race experience while supporting safety, logistics and community engagement.

The course showcases some of St. Louis’ most recognizable sights, including the Gateway Arch, downtown skyline and historic neighborhoods. Participants can expect strong spectator support, neighborhood energy and a festive race-day atmosphere featuring live music, local food and post-race celebrations.

The MATI (Music At The Intersection) stage will host entertainment for the post-race celebration, including a performance by local favorites The Steve Ewing Band.

With running participation continuing to rise nationwide, St. Louis has emerged as a welcoming and accessible destination for runners of all levels. The Greater St. Louis Marathon reflects this momentum, serving as both a community celebration and a destination race for participants from across the country.

About GO! St. Louis

GO! St. Louis is a nonprofit organization that encourages individuals and families in the St. Louis region to adopt a healthy and active lifestyle year-round through community collaborations, school-based programming and the creation of accessible fitness events.

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