Long Beach Marathon Will Host 28,000 Runners This Weekend

The 42nd annual race brings thousands to city streets for a multi-day event starting Friday.

Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Running

Expressive editorial sports illustration showing a group of runners in motion along a sunny coastal path with ocean waves in the background. — The 42nd annual Long Beach Marathon begins this Friday, Oct. 9, with more than 28,000 participants expected to race along the city's coastline. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The 42nd annual Long Beach Marathon will draw more than 28,000 runners to the city for a series of races beginning this Friday, Oct. 9. Participants will traverse a course that includes the Queen Mary and the Pacific Ocean coastline.

Why it matters

Originating during the 1970s running boom to bring a premier event to the city, the marathon now serves as a significant community gathering and charitable engine. Organizers have set a $150,000 goal to support various local causes through participant fundraising efforts.

This year marks the 42nd running of the event since its 1982 debut, with over 28,000 participants currently registered. The race has set a specific charity fundraising goal of $150,000 for this year's installment.

The players

Long Beach Marathon

This is a historic athletic event that has been held annually in the city since its founding in 1982.

Aquarium of the Pacific

This major local institution serves as the namesake sponsor for the 5K race occurring on Saturday.

The details

Runners will navigate a scenic course spanning from the Queen Mary to neighborhoods including Belmont Shore and Cal State Long Beach. Extensive road closures will be implemented across the city to accommodate the influx of athletes and spectators throughout the weekend.

The first Long Beach Marathon occurred in 1982.
The health and wellness expo begins on Friday, Oct. 9.
The Aquarium of the Pacific 5K and initial street closures occur on Saturday, Oct. 10.
The marathon and half-marathon take place on Sunday, Oct. 11.
All roads are expected to fully reopen by 2 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 11.

Season Trajectory

The marathon's origin follows the trend set by the 1970s running boom, which catalyzed the growth of long-distance racing across American cities. This event continues to evolve as the city's premier athletic showcase, reflecting a long-term strategy to expand the scale of its major public events.

Residents should anticipate significant traffic detours and road closures throughout the weekend, with specific warnings that unauthorized parked vehicles will be ticketed and towed. All road networks are scheduled to return to normal traffic patterns by 2 p.m. on Sunday.

The takeaway

Drivers are encouraged to plan routes around closed sections to avoid being towed during the race festivities. Supporting local charity efforts remains a primary way for the community to engage with the event's $150,000 fundraising initiative.