A record number of runners will take to the streets this Sunday for the Hobart Marathon Festival.
3,000 people will lace up their running shoes to compete across the five distances around Hobart’s waterfront.
The main event, the 42.2km marathon starts and finishes at Constitution Dock, winding through Hobart’s most recognisable landmarks including the Queen’s Domain, Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens, Salamanca Place, Battery Point and Sandy Bay waterfront.
Atlas Events Managing Director Jason Crowther said the event’s growth reflects both Hobart’s appeal as a destination and running’s increasing popularity as a social activity.
“Running has become increasingly popular, we’re seeing a lot of growth in younger age groups not only because of its health and social benefits but because it’s accessible and gives people a reason to travel,” Crowther said.
More than 40% of participants are expected to travel from interstate and overseas.
The festival offers distances from 42.2km, 21.1km, 10km, 5km run and walk through to a 2km mini marathon.
In 2025, visitors contributed an estimated $1.5 million in direct spend across accommodation, hospitality and tourism experiences.
Crowther said Hobart’s combination of challenge and setting continues to resonate with runners seeking more than a standard city race.
“The course is honest and challenging but it’s extremely rewarding and we’ve some extraordinary results every year,” he said.
“That challenge is exactly what people are looking for. You come down for the run, but you stay for the experience.”
Since launching in 2022, participation has grown from 1,350 entrants to more than 3,000.
Variety Tasmania has been named the major beneficiary of the 2026 festival.
The charity supports children who are sick, disadvantaged or living with disability through programs, experiences and community grants.
To sign up or for more information go to hobartmarathon.com.au.
