Running Fence Run - A Celebration of Freedom and Democracy

Celebrate Democracy and Art in an Epic Race honoring the 2,514th anniversary of the original marathon race and the 50th anniversary of the Running Fence Project on Patriot Day Weekend in 2026. 

Running Fence Run is a unique marathon race along the rolling hills and public roads adjacent to Christo and Jeanne-Claude’s famous Running Fence temporary art installation, a 18 foot high 24.5 mile long fabric fence that confounded the world in 1976. Tracing much of the art installation’s route from the Pacific Ocean to the Cotati Hub, the Running Fence Marathon features milestone markers- obelisks wrapped in the Christo-style. 

Patriot Day Weekend marks the 2,514th anniversary of the original race that delivered the news of the victory at Marathon and rallied the fledgling democracy of Athens to resist an impending Persian naval attack. It is the 50th anniversary of Christo's Running Fence, a powerful symbol of artistic freedom and democratic debate that put the landscapes of Sonoma and Marin counties on the map.  

The Running Fence Run commemorates these momentous events during a single historic weekend! Join us for a marathon (26.2 miles) or a 10K on a scenic course that winds through the rolling hills once adorned by Christo's iconic art installation.

On Friday, September 11th, we will honor the victims of the 9/11 attacks with a special memorial ceremony. Join us in paying our respects and remembering those who were lost.

On Saturday, September 12th, we'll continue the celebration with a marathon, 5K, and 10K race. Choose your distance and challenge yourself while supporting a great cause.

On Sunday, September 13th, head to the Cotati hub for a day of festivities! Enjoy live music, food trucks, and family-friendly activities.

This is more than just a race, it's a celebration of:

The enduring spirit of democracy: We honor the Athenian victory that laid the foundation for modern democratic ideals.
Artistic expression: We pay tribute to Christo's masterpiece and the power of public discourse.
Physical achievement: Challenge yourself and run alongside fellow enthusiasts on a beautiful course.
Unity and remembrance: Honor the victims of the 9/11 attacks and stand together as a community.
Community spirit: Join us for a fun-filled day of celebration in Cotati.