Registration for the 50th annual Grandma's Marathon opened Wednesday evening, drawing a rush of eager runners to the website just after 7 p.m. CT. The event, set for June 20, 2026, in Duluth, Minnesota, promises to be bigger than ever, with organizers expecting the slots to fill up fast as they did in previous years. Indeed, this milestone edition along the stunning shores of Lake Superior has already sparked buzz among the running community, from casual joggers to elite athletes chasing personal bests.
The weekend lineup remains a staple: the flagship 26.2-mile Grandma's Marathon starting in Two Harbors, the popular Garry Bjorklund Half Marathon kicking off the races on Saturday morning, and the William A. Irvin 5K on Friday. But with capacities adjusted slightly upward—capped at around 9,000 for the full marathon and 12,000 for the half—early action is crucial. Those who miss the initial wave might face waitlists or turn to charity partners for guaranteed bibs, though at a steeper fundraising commitment of up to $1,500. Moreover, a $500 early-bird fee offers a workaround for priority entry, a move that's drawn some quiet grumbling from budget-conscious participants who see it as edging toward exclusivity.
Grandma's has evolved since its humble 1976 debut, backed by a modest $600 from the namesake restaurant in Canal Park. Now one of America's top 10 marathons, it pulls in over 20,000 runners yearly, transforming Duluth into a sea of spectators and aid stations. However, the growing popularity brings challenges—lodging shortages and traffic snarls that test even the most prepared. Organizers are touting enhanced spectator perks this time, like better bleacher access, to keep the small-town charm intact amid the crowds.
Yet for all the hype, the real draw stays the course itself: that relentless uphill grind through the early miles, followed by the rewarding downhill push into the finish. As runners gear up for what could be the toughest sellout yet, one can't help but wonder how this anniversary will redefine endurance in the Northwoods.