Bismarck Marathon Announces 2024 Race Dates
The race celebrates its 43rd year as ND’s longest-running marathon.
BISMARCK, ND — The Bismarck Marathon presented by MDU Resources announced Wednesday its race dates for 2024 — September 21-22 at the North Dakota State Capitol Grounds.
The new weekend dates are in an effort to collaborate with local community events on the same weekend and create a better experience for runners traveling from out of state. In 2023, 43 different states and three different countries were represented.
2023 was also the first year the race took place at the ND State Capitol Grounds, taking runners downtown North Dakota’s capital city.
Registration for the 2024 race will open on Monday, January 1, 2024 for the MDU Resources Full, Touchstone Energy Half, and BNSF Railway Marathon Relay. The Sanford Health 10K, SCHEELS 5K and other community races will open for registration on February 1. Runners can register by visiting our website or visiting the official Race Roster registration platform.
Race officials are working to update race routes for all events with 2023 attendee feedback. This will both improve the running experience and increase runner safety throughout the city. All courses are USATF-certified, meaning runners can qualify for races like the Boston Marathon.
More information about new changes for the race will be released early in 2024.
When does registration open?
Registration for our biggest three races — the MDU Resources Marathon, Touchstone Energy Half, and BNSF Railway Marathon Relay opens in just a few weeks on January 1. We’re offering a special deal again this year, with 26.2% off race day prices if you register during the first week of January. Looking for a different race? Registration for all other races will open February 1 (not including FREE events).
When is my event?
This year’s event is on Saturday and Sunday, new for 2024. While we are still finalizing the schedule of events for race weekend, here is what our projected lineup looks like:
- Saturday, Sept. 21: Kids Mini Marathon, BisBark 4K, Adaptive Race, 5K, 10K
- Sunday, Sept. 22: Full, Half Marathon, Relay
The lineup of events is subject to change.
Why are all the races on the weekend now?
In an effort to collaborate with local community events and to provide a better race experience at the ND State Capitol Grounds, this change will help us make the Bismarck Marathon even better.
This change also makes it easier for runners traveling from out of state or long distances to attend our race. With 43 states and 3 different countries represented in 2023, we are so excited to welcome the best runners from all over the world to our great city.
Where is the 2024 Bismarck Marathon?
As one of North Dakota’s premier capital city running events, the Bismarck Marathon is excited to make its return to the North Dakota State Capitol Grounds for the 2024 race! We heard your feedback — and this new, scenic route that takes you through downtown Bismarck was a hit. Our team of running experts is working hard to make suggested adjustments to improve the overall experience of all our routes, including an increased focus on the safety of all runners. Be on the lookout for updated route maps early in 2024.
When should I register?
The sooner your register, the more money you save and the earlier you can start on your training journey to race day! The best price you’ll get all year is in January and February, so don’t delay your registration. We can always adjust your race distance if your training isn’t working out.
I still have questions. Who should I reach out to?
Our team would love to help! You can send us an email at [email protected], call our office at (701) 877-4386, or send us a message on social media and we’ll help find the answer. You might be able to find the answer on our website
About The Bismarck Marathon
The Bismarck Marathon is North Dakota’s longest running marathon. The event features a full marathon, half marathon, relay, 10k, 5k, and free community day with races for the kids and more. The Bismarck Marathon is proud to be recognized as the USATF Dakotas Championship for its half marathon and 10K. The race attracts runners from across the region and has become a highlight of the local running community.
