Spurs Austin International Half Turns Up the Volume with 10 Bands on Course

January 8, 2026

Runners will experience Austin’s music scene from start to finish

AUSTIN, TX (January 8, 2026) /ENDURANCE SPORTSWIRE/ — The Spurs Austin International Half is bringing the sound of Austin to the streets on Sunday, January 18, delivering an elevated race-day experience with live music at every mile. Formerly known as the 3M Half Marathon, the event continues its evolution with a finalized on-course entertainment lineup featuring 10 local bands along the 13.1-mile point-to-point route.

From north Austin to the finish near the Texas State Capitol, runners will be energized by an eclectic mix of musical styles that reflect the city’s deep cultural roots and reputation as the Live Music Capital of the World. Each mile marker will offer a new soundtrack, designed to motivate runners and create a festival-like atmosphere throughout the race.

“Live music has always been part of the DNA of this event,” said Stacy Keese, co-owner of High Five Events. “By placing bands throughout the course, we’re giving runners something to look forward to at every mile, whether it’s a drumbeat that pushes them uphill or a familiar tune that carries them to the finish. It’s a uniquely Austin experience you won’t find anywhere else.”

The 2026 on-course entertainment lineup includes: Austin Taiko (Japanese drumming), Everett Wren (fiddle), Inside Out Steel Band (steel drum), Kupira Marimba (Zimbabwean marimba), Austin Thaalam (Indian drumming), Nathan Harlan ( Acoustic Guitar), Shirley Johnson (accordion), Woode Wood (guitar and harmonica), Stove Top Rangers (banjo, string bass, guitar), and Brian MacLeod.

The Spurs Austin International Half is known as one of the fastest half marathon courses in the country, featuring a predominantly downhill, point-to-point route with a 306-foot net elevation drop. Registration is currently open for runners looking to combine speed, scenery, and sound on race day.Participants can register on the website.

About Spurs Austin International Half

The Spurs Austin International Half, formerly the 3M Half Marathon, is one of Texas’ fastest and most exciting 13.1-mile events. Established in 1995, it features a net-downhill course that winds through Austin’s most iconic neighborhoods and finishes downtown. Runners enjoy a high-energy experience with live music, enthusiastic spectators, and top-tier course support. With PR potential, great swag, and an unbeatable Austin spirit, this event welcomes runners of all levels. Learn more at AustinInternationalHalf.com.