Oklahoma City Marathon 2025

• Commemorates 1995 bombing; benefits Memorial & Museum.
• Boston Marathon qualifier; features Survivor Tree.
• Includes Marathon, Half Marathon, 5K, and Relay.
• Health Expo and post-race festival at Scissortail Park.
• "Ran Them All" group celebrates repeat participants.

The Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon is an annual tribute to the victims and those affected by the Oklahoma City bombing on April 19, 1995. It is a celebration of life, hope, and remembrance, bringing together athletes and spectators from around the world. The marathon course is relatively flat to slightly rolling, making it a fast course. It starts at the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum, winds through the Capitol and Oklahoma City's historic neighborhoods, and ends in Automobile Alley. Runners pass 168 banners, each bearing the name of one of those who were killed in the Oklahoma City bombing. The course has a total elevation difference of about 140 feet, with a maximum elevation of 1266 feet and a minimum elevation of 1121 feet. The marathon is held as a tribute to those who were killed, those who survived, and those changed forever by the Oklahoma City bombing. The event fosters a strong sense of community, with over 25,000 runners and walkers participating from every state and several countries. The marathon is a Boston Marathon qualifier, making it a popular choice for runners aiming to qualify for the Boston Marathon. The event offers multiple races, including a marathon, half marathon, quarter marathon, 5K, kids marathon, and senior marathon, catering to a wide range of participants. Registration is available on the official website, with an entry fee of $145.25. The registration deadline is when the race is full. The OKC Memorial Marathon Expo takes place at the Oklahoma City Convention Center on Friday, April 25, and Saturday, April 26, where participants can pick up their race packets and purchase additional merchandise. The Finish Line Festival is held on Saturday, April 26, and Sunday, April 27, offering a celebratory atmosphere for runners and spectators. The Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon is not just another marathon; it is a #RuntoRemember, a race to show that we can each make a difference and change the world. It is a powerful event that combines athletic achievement with a profound tribute to the victims of the Oklahoma City bombing.

Expect temperatures ranging from 54-74°F (12-23°C) during the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon in late April. Be prepared for high humidity and potential rain, though there are typically clear skies at the race start. Wind can also be a factor, so plan accordingly for these variable conditions.

The Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon is a 26.2-mile journey through the heart of Oklahoma City, steeped in history and community spirit. Starting at the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum, the course sets a somber yet inspiring tone as runners pass the Survivor Tree, a symbol of resilience from the 1995 bombing. The route meanders through iconic neighborhoods like Bricktown and Nichols Hills, offering a rich tapestry of the city's culture and heritage.

Runners will experience mostly flat terrain with gentle rolling hills, making for a balanced challenge with an elevation gain and loss of around 750 feet. One of the course's notable features is Gorilla Hill, where a spirited crowd helps push runners through this testing incline.

The marathon is marked by strong community support, with spectators lining the streets, and 168 banners honor bombing victims, serving as a poignant reminder of the event's purpose. The weather can be unpredictable, adding an extra layer of challenge, while the initial miles require agility due to their narrow, winding nature. Overall, this marathon is a powerful blend of historical reflection, community engagement, and athletic challenge, creating an unforgettable experience for all participants.

Visiting Oklahoma City for the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon provides an excellent opportunity to discover the city's vibrant culture and attractions. While you're here, take advantage of special rates at Marathon Partner hotels, ideally situated for easy access to both the marathon route and the city's highlights. The Oklahoma City Streetcar offers free rides during marathon weekend, making downtown exploration a breeze.

Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Scissortail Park, a sprawling 70-acre space featuring gardens, water activities, and the Finish Line Festival. Nearby, Bricktown offers a lively scene with historical water taxi tours and dining options like Mickey Mantle's Steakhouse. For a touch of tranquility, the Myriad Botanical Gardens presents a serene escape with its Crystal Bridge Conservatory.

Cultural enthusiasts will appreciate the First Americans Museum, which showcases the rich histories of Oklahoma's First American Nations. During marathon weekend, the Festival of the Arts in Bicentennial Park adds an extra layer of excitement with its array of visual and performing arts. For a deeper dive into history, visit the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum or explore the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. These experiences promise to enrich your visit to Oklahoma City, offering a blend of art, history, and local charm.