December 4–5, 2026
Run in the footsteps of Razorback legends on a course that takes you inside Razorback Stadium and John McDonnell Field. Experience Fayetteville, All Sports Productions, and the University of Arkansas have teamed up to bring you the Experience Fayetteville Half Marathon on December 5, 2026, with four ways to take on the course: a half marathon, 10K, 5K, or fun run.
The Experience Fayetteville Half Marathon is about much more than the miles. The updated route brings you straight inside Razorback Stadium, a massive SEC venue built for nearly 80,000 fans.
From there, you’ll head through John McDonnell Field, home to the winningest track and field program in college athletics history, where Olympians and champions have made their mark. Both iconic landmarks will be lit up for your arrival with glowing LED videoboards and photographers ready to capture your big stadium moment.
Pick your distance, find your pace, and discover 13.1 new reasons to love December in Fayetteville.
What's New for Race Weekend?
The Fayetteville Half Marathon has been a Northwest Arkansas tradition for years, and this year it’s getting its biggest course update yet.
Run Through Iconic University of Arkansas Landmarks
Start at The Gardens, run directly through Razorback Stadium, into John McDonnell Field, and finish back at The Gardens for the official after-party.
Two Days to Get Into It
We’re stretching the celebration across two full days. Pick up your packet and vendor gear at the Fayetteville Town Center, then head to the Square to take in 500,000+ lights at the Lights of the Ozarks.
Tailgate & Beer Garden
Stick around after the race for drinks, good company, and a student-friendly celebration at The Gardens.
More to Cheer For
Look for local entertainment, student groups, and plenty of energy along the route.
Built for U of A Students
Razorback Nation, we’d love to see you at the starting line. Students get special pricing across every distance, plus opportunities to get your friends, clubs, and organizations involved.
Student perks include:
- 50% off the half marathon
- 30% off the 10K
- 20% off the 5K
- Free entries for the Arkansas Running Club
- Opportunities for student groups, clubs, and organizations to run together
- Chances to volunteer and get hands-on experience with the event
- Race-day deals at participating restaurants, coffee shops, and other student favorites
Enjoy a little change of pace in the pre-finals stretch. Pick your distance, bring your friends, and take a well-deserved study break.
Come for the Race. Stay for the Weekend.
Race weekend takes place at the peak of the holiday season, right alongside the magical Lights of the Ozarks display downtown. You might say it’s the most run-derful time of the year.
Pick up your packet and tons of freebies from our vendors at the Fayetteville Town Center on Friday, December 4. Once you’re geared up, head out to the Square for the Lights of the Ozarks, where you’ll be surrounded by over 500,000 twinkling lights (that’s 47 miles of holiday glow), tons of photo ops, and festive cheer. Just don't burn all your energy celebrating; you’ll want fresh legs when you join your fellow racers at The Gardens on race morning.
- Carb-Load & Refuel: 15 Restaurants Near Razorback Stadium
- Explore Off-Course: 10 Things to Do Steps from the U of A
- Victory Lap: Discover Our Vibrant & Walkable Downtown
- Shakeout Routes: Cycling, Trails, and Outdoor Adventures
- Unwind Post-Race: Find Theatre, Art, and Culture
Catch the Experience Fayetteville team around town before race weekend! We'll be kicking things off in person on September 18 at Rumble in the Ramble, hanging out at Falltoberfest on October 4, and partnering with Lights of the Ozarks in November to keep the countdown going.
Where to Stay for the Experience Fayetteville Half Marathon
Rest those legs and find your perfect Fayetteville stay for race weekend and beyond.
Located just minutes from the venue and overlooking the downtown entertainment district of Fayetteville, this mountain top retreat has an array of accommodations from houses, bunk rooms to dorm style. Call 800-760-8126 or email
Vacation rental like no other. Cohova has over 30 homey vacation rentals in the area, each decorated in a different and special way. Contact them directly at 833-264-6262,
Event Management Partner: All Sports Productions
The Experience Fayetteville Half Marathon is proudly produced in partnership with All Sports Productions, a premier sports event management company dedicated to promoting top-tier cycling, running, duathlons, triathlons, and outdoor adventures across the region.
Driven by a mission to inspire healthy, active lifestyles, All Sports Productions builds every event to the highest standard, combining professional, athlete-first race execution with a high-energy, festival-like atmosphere for participants and spectators alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes December the best time to visit Fayetteville, Arkansas?
Race weekend is in the heart of the holiday season, alongside the famous Lights of the Ozarks display that turns the Square into a winter wonderland with over 500,000 lights, hot cocoa, holiday music, and pop-up markets.
What’s the weather like in Fayetteville in December?
December usually brings fantastic running weather. With average highs in the mid-50s, Fayetteville offers much milder conditions than destinations further north. Expect a crisp morning start that quickly gives way to a pleasant, comfortable day for whatever comes next.
Is the Experience Fayetteville Half Marathon family-friendly?
Absolutely. Bring the whole family, including little ones. Strollers are welcome on the course, but we ask that anyone pushing one lines up at the back of the starting pack.
How do I get to Fayetteville, Arkansas?
Fayetteville is easy to reach by car or air, with several options for getting into town. Find everything you need to plan your trip on our getting here guide.
Where should I park for race day on December 5th?
There are several parking options near the race route and start area. For locations and details, check our parking guide.
Can I register on race day?
There is no race day registration, but you can register online up until midnight the night before the race. If you can't make it to Friday's packet pickup at the Fayetteville Town Center downtown, morning packet pickup will be available on-site before the race.
Start Planning Your Experience Fayetteville Half Marathon Weekend
Runners, your next finish line is in Fayetteville. Whether you're here to chase a PR or a good time, there's a starting line with your name on it.
