Grandma's Marathon Races Sold Out Quickly

Registration for the 51st annual Duluth racing weekend reached capacity within hours of opening on October 1.

Updated on Oct. 2, 2026 in Running

Expressive editorial sports illustration of a runner's legs in motion, capturing the intensity of a race start in a cool coastal environment. — All major races for the 51st annual Grandma's Marathon Weekend in Duluth reached capacity shortly after registration opened on October 1. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Do you plan to participate in local sporting events despite record-setting registration speeds?

The 51st annual Grandma's Marathon Weekend saw all major races reach capacity shortly after registration opened on October 1, 2026. The Garry Bjorklund Half Marathon sold out in less than one hour, followed by the William A. Irvin 5K and the marathon.

Why it matters

The rapid sell-out of these events highlights the enduring popularity of the Twin Ports racing tradition among athletes. The high demand necessitates prompt action for runners seeking to secure a spot in the upcoming June 2027 race weekend.

The William A. Irvin 5K reached its 7,500-runner capacity in 118 minutes, while the full marathon sold out in 174 minutes. All events were filled shortly after registration launched on October 1, 2026.

The players

Grandma's Marathon

It is a premier annual distance-running event held in the Twin Ports region of Minnesota.

Blacklist Brewing

This Duluth-based craft brewery hosted the official kickoff event to celebrate the registration opening.

The details

Runners secured their spots in the 51st annual event via online registration. A kickoff celebration at Blacklist Brewing in Duluth preceded the high-speed sell-out of the races.

October 1, 2026: Registration opened for Grandma's Marathon Weekend.
June 2027: Grandma's Marathon Weekend scheduled to take place.

Season Trajectory

This rapid sell-out reinforces the status of Grandma's Marathon as a cornerstone event in the regional athletic calendar. It maintains the competitive urgency seen in previous years, signaling a highly anticipated return for the 2027 race season.

With the 5K, half marathon, and full marathon now at capacity, prospective runners are currently restricted to waitlists or secondary entry options. Athletes who successfully registered should prepare for the June 2027 race weekend in the Twin Ports.

The takeaway

The event success demonstrates that early preparation is essential for those looking to participate in popular regional marathons. Athletes planning for future races should monitor official announcements to ensure they register the moment windows open.