Michigan · Marathon · Half · 5K

Detroit Free Press Marathon

Detroit Free Press Marathon is a marathon, half marathon and 5K event held in Detroit, Michigan. It is usually held in October; the exact date hasn't been confirmed in the listing yet. About 30,000 runners take part across all distances.

Usually held
October
Location
Detroit, MI
Field size
~30,000 runners

Race details

Usually held in
October (date not confirmed)
Distances
Marathon, Half, 5K
Field size
About 30,000 runners
Course
Flat
Official website
detroitmarathon.com

About the Detroit Free Press Marathon

Michigan's premier and largest marathon, famous for its US-Canada international course crossing into Windsor, Ontario via the Ambassador Bridge and returning through the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel. Total participation across all events is expected to approach 30,000 in 2026.

Rankings and notes

Rankings and awards
USATF-certified; Boston qualifier; features the only official underwater international mile in the world (Detroit-Windsor Tunnel); marathon and international half sell out within days; Michigan's largest running event
Notes
Largest MI marathon

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Guides from the RaceRove blog

Detroit Free Press Marathon: common questions

When is the Detroit Free Press Marathon?
The next date hasn't been announced in the listing yet. The race is usually held in October. Check the organiser's website for the official date.
Where is the Detroit Free Press Marathon held?
In Detroit, Michigan.
What distances does the Detroit Free Press Marathon offer?
Marathon, Half and 5K.
How many people run the Detroit Free Press Marathon?
About 30,000 runners across all of its distances. That figure is an estimate of the field size, not an entry cap.
How do I register for the Detroit Free Press Marathon?
Registration is handled by the organiser at detroitmarathon.enmotive.com. Entry fees, caps and deadlines are set there.
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