At Moreland Properties, our 40-year history has been shaped alongside Austin’s — a city defined by its neighborhoods, its people, and the traditions that bring them together. From long-established communities to areas experiencing thoughtful growth, Austin continues to evolve while remaining deeply connected to the places residents call home.

THE HISTORY

A Tradition Rooted in Community

Since its debut in 1992, the Austin Marathon has grown into one of the city’s most anticipated annual events. What began as a modest race has evolved into a weekend-long celebration that welcomes tens of thousands of runners, spectators, and visitors who live here and travel to Austin for the event each February. Over the years, the marathon has mirrored the city itself — steadily growing while maintaining a strong sense of community and local character.

Early iterations of the race reflected Austin’s emerging identity as an active, outdoors-oriented city. As participation increased and the event gained national recognition, the marathon became a fixture on Austin’s cultural calendar, drawing runners from across the country and around the world. Today, the Ascension Seton Austin Marathon, Half Marathon, and 5K stands as one of the largest running events in Texas, showcasing the city in its most energized state.

The Course: A Snapshot of Austin

One of the defining features of the Austin Marathon is its course, which offers participants a firsthand look at many of the neighborhoods and landmarks that shape the city.

The race begins and ends downtown, passing through areas such as South Congress, East Austin, Hyde Park, and near the University of Texas campus. Along the way, runners experience Austin’s rolling terrain, historic streets, and distinct neighborhood character — from long-established residential enclaves to areas that reflect the city’s continued growth and evolution.

For spectators, the course doubles as a city tour, with live music, local businesses, and neighborhood pride on full display. It’s a reminder that Austin’s identity is deeply tied to the places people live, gather, and invest in.

Growth Over Time

Over more than three decades, the Austin Marathon has expanded in scale, organization, and impact. What started with a few hundred runners now brings together tens of thousands of participants across multiple race distances. The addition of the Half Marathon and 5K has made the event accessible to runners of all experience levels, reinforcing its inclusive nature.

This steady growth reflects broader trends in Austin — a city that continues to attract new residents while honoring long-standing traditions. Much like the neighborhoods that have evolved alongside Austin’s population, the marathon has adapted thoughtfully, maintaining its roots while embracing change.

THE MARATHON IN 2026

The 2026 Austin Marathon will take place in February, continuing a tradition that has become synonymous with the season.

Race Weekend Highlights

• Events: Full Marathon, Half Marathon, and 5K
• Location: Downtown Austin, with the start and finish near Congress Avenue and the State Capitol
• Race Expo: A two-day Health & Fitness Expo featuring packet pickup, vendors, and community engagement
• Finish Line Festival: Food, live music, recovery areas, and local offerings for runners and spectators

Planning Tips for Local and Out-of-town Travelers

• Expect early morning road closures throughout downtown and surrounding neighborhoods
• Spectator-friendly viewing areas include South Congress, downtown corridors, and sections near the Capitol
• Participants and visitors are encouraged to plan transportation and accommodations in advance due to high demand

From runners on the course to volunteers and spectators along the route, the marathon offers a distinctive perspective on Austin’s neighborhoods and the community connections that define them.

Explore the course map, additional information and all things Austin Marathon at https://youraustinmarathon.com/.

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As Austin continues to move forward, traditions like the marathon remind us that growth is most meaningful when it’s rooted in history, thoughtful planning, and a strong connection to place. Whether you’re putting down roots in a new neighborhood or cheering from the curb, the Austin Marathon offers a clear view of a city built to go the distance.

As part of Moreland’s 40th Anniversary and our MORE Austin History series, we’re proud to celebrate the events, neighborhoods, and traditions that continue to shape Austin. Whether you’re visiting town running, supporting or just happen to be here during this annual event that brings the city together, Moreland is here if you’re ready to Austin your new home.