Little Rock Marathon Generates $14.1 Million in Economic Impact for Central Arkansas

April 29, 2026

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (April 29, 2026) /ENDURANCE SPORTSWIRE/ — The 2026 Little Rock Marathon delivered a significant boost to the Central Arkansas economy, generating more than $14.1 million in total economic impact, according to a newly released Economic Impact Summary by the Little Rock Convention & Visitors Bureau.

The report shows $8.4 million in direct visitor spending, supporting more than 2,800 jobs and producing over $1.1 million in state and local tax revenue.

The total economic impact figure reflects a combination of direct visitor spending – such as lodging, dining, retail purchases, transportation, and entertainment. Using standard economic modeling, the analysis captures how initial dollars spent by participants and spectators continue to circulate as local businesses purchase goods and services and employees spend their earnings, creating additional indirect and induced economic activity across Central Arkansas.

“The Little Rock Marathon is more than a world-class sporting event. It is a powerful driver of economic activity for our city and our state,” said Executive Director Geneva Lamm. “With more than $14.1 million in total economic impact, over 2,800 jobs supported, and more than $1.1 million generated in tax revenue, this event delivers real benefits for local businesses, workers, and families.”

Now entering its 25th year, the Little Rock Marathon has grown into one of the premier endurance events in the country and a cornerstone of the Central Arkansas community. The 2026 event weekend featured a full slate of races, including a marathon, half marathon, 10K, 5K, All Abilities Marathon, and a kids one-mile race. The weekend also included a two-day fitness expo and a variety of activities for participants and spectators alike.

Each year, thousands of runners and visitors travel to Little Rock, filling local hotels, dining in area restaurants, and supporting small businesses across the region.

For more information about the Little Rock Marathon, visit www.littlerockmarathon.com.

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About Little Rock Marathon
The mission of the Little Rock Marathon is to provide a premier event open to athletes of all abilities, while promoting a healthy lifestyle through running and walking and raising money for Little Rock Parks & Recreation. Since inception in 2003, more than $1.5 million has been donated to Little Rock Parks & Recreation. Little Rock Marathon Race Weekend is held the first weekend in March each year and includes a marathon, half marathon, 10K, 5K, a race for all abilities, a children’s mile and a free two-day health and fitness expo. With an estimated $8.4 million in local spending annually, more than 371,000 individuals have participated in a Little Rock Marathon race, event, or free training program. This has been achieved through school-based programs, community outreach, partnerships with running/walking groups across the country and passionate grassroots promotion.