#1 Most Colorful Running Fiesta in America

ALBUQUERQUE RUNNING FIESTA

DATE: 1st of November 2026

LOCATION: Downtown Albuquerque

EVENTS: 5k, half-marathon, marathon

ABOUT: The Albuquerque Running Fiesta was created by local runners, organizers, and community members with a vision to build a race experience that truly represents Albuquerque and New Mexico. After four years of research, planning, and development, the first edition launched in 2025 and quickly became one of the most talked-about new running events in the region. The Fiesta combines competitive racing, community celebration, local culture, and a high-energy atmosphere unlike any other race weekend in New Mexico.

2026 EDITION: The 2026 Albuquerque Running Fiesta will be bigger, more exciting, and even more community-driven. Highlights include: USATF Certified Marathon Course, new start line and improved course flow, pacers for the Half Marathon and Marathon, bigger Race Expo and Packet Pick Up Experience, more on-course entertainment and activations, 26 community teams cheering throughout the marathon course, enhanced finish line festival atmosphere, improved swag and finisher medals, free race photos, more local partnerships and community involvement, and music, culture, color, and Fiesta energy throughout race weekend.

COURSE: The courses showcase some of Albuquerque’s most iconic locations, including Downtown, Route 66, Old Town, the Bosque trails, North Valley, and Los Ranchos. The marathon course is designed to be scenic, fast, and beginner-friendly, while still offering an unforgettable experience for competitive runners. THE TOTAL ELEVATION GAIN IN THE MARATHON IS 51 FEET. IT COULD BE THE #2 FLATTEST MARATHON COURSE IN THE WORLD.

MISSION: The Albuquerque Running Fiesta is locally owned and locally organized. Our goal is to create a world-class race experience while supporting the local community, showcasing Albuquerque to visitors, and inspiring people of all backgrounds to move, connect, and celebrate together.

RACE WEEKEND: Expo and packet pick up, local vendors and sponsors, community activations, music and entertainment, cheer zones, recovery and wellness areas, family-friendly atmosphere, and special surprises throughout the weekend.

PACKET PICKUP: all day on Saturday, Oct 31st 2026 at the DoubleTree Hotel.

The Albuquerque Running Fiesta Marathon course is USATF certified. Finish times are eligible for Boston Marathon qualification.

We will also offer another race for the kids, half-mile long for 12 years old and under. Registration will open up at a later date. Limit 100 kids.