ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Calling all distance runners, Boston Marathon aspirants and first-time marathoners. The 2026 Asheville Marathon & Half has opened regular registration for next year’s race.

The race, hosted by iDaph Events and sponsored by New Belgium Brewing, will be held from 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday, March 21 in downtown Asheville. Register for the race here.

What to expect from the Asheville Marathon

“The 2026 Asheville Marathon & Half takes runners on a scenic tour of Asheville’s most iconic neighborhoods, downtown streets, and riverside greenways before wrapping up at New Belgium Brewing with a well-earned celebration,” wrote Asheville Marathon in a press release. “This USATF-certified course is a Boston Marathon qualifier and welcomes everyone—from first-timers to seasoned elites. It’s a race-day experience that blends community, challenge and a true celebration of Asheville’s resilience and beauty, given that this year’s event will include refreshed sections now reopened after Hurricane Helene storm repairs.”

This year, the Asheville Marathon will benefit local charity United Way of Asheville & Buncombe County, which centers on providing opportunities for local youth and building community resiliency.

“In the marathon’s 13 years, the race has given tens of thousands of dollars to many local and regional causes through a combination of runner fundraising, donations made at registration, and unique bonus incentives,” Asheville Marathon wrote in the release.

“Every mile we run is an opportunity to give back,” said Daphne Kirkwood, iDaph Events founder.

Prior to the race itself, a race expo will be held from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday, March 20 at the DoubleTree by Hilton in the Biltmore Village. Additionally, New Belgium will host a “shakeout run” at 1 p.m. that Friday, giving runners an opportunity to run off nerves and connect with fellow contestants before the big day.

Following the race, an afterparty will be held at New Belgium, featuring live music, coffee, beer, food trucks and race awards. From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Sunday, March 21, race participants and community members are invited to take part in “plogging,” the practice of picking up litter and jogging around a race route.

“Volunteers and community members are encouraged to participate and help clean up Asheville—showing the true spirit of our community working together for a cleaner, healthier city,” Asheville Marathon wrote in the release.

Find more information about plogging at www.ashevillemarathon.com/plogging-event.