Emera Blue Nose Marathon 2026 - Race Information & Guide

Author: Kurt NorrisPosted on:
Emera Blue Nose Marathon welcomes participants from around the world

It's time to start training. The annual Emera Blue Nose Marathon is quickly approaching, and with it comes a new and exciting weekend of athletic events and races. From how to register for a race to the course routes through the city, this is everything you need to know about the upcoming Emera Blue Nose Marathon 2026.

Emera Blue Nose Marathon General Information

Started in 2004 with the dream of becoming a world class race that showcases the beauty and splendour of the Halifax-Dartmouth region, the Emera Blue Nose Marathon has become one of the premier athletic events in Atlantic Canada.

Traditionally held over the Victoria Day long weekend, the marathon has grown into a weekend-long athletic event consisting of multiple running distances and an Active Living Expo promoting healthy lifestyles.

Whether partaking in the Boston qualifying race or joining one of the many other events, the Blue Nose Marathon promises an exciting weekend of activities that the whole family can enjoy.

Emera Blue Nose Marathon Dates: May 15-17, 2026

Where to Register

Those looking to partake in one of the weekend's races can register for the event of their choice through the marathon's official registration portal. Registration is open until the day before the event itself, but be sure to sign up before 5:00 PM on Wednesday, April 22, 2026 to receive a personalized racing bib.

What is Included

All participants receive a complimentary marathon kit, which can be picked up at the Zatzman Sportsplex, 110 Wyse Road, Dartmouth, on May 15 between 10:00 AM and 8:00 PM or on May 16 from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

Registration includes:

  • Access to the Blue Nose Marathon Expo Presented by Subaru
  • Routes with stunning views of Halifax and Dartmouth
  • Participant shirt
  • Personalized race bib (if registered by 5:00 PM on Wednesday, April 22, 2026)
  • Blue Nose Marathon medal
  • Chip-timed race

Emera Blue Nose Marathon Events

Emera Blue Nose Marathon is one of Halifax's premier racing and walking events.

Medavie 42.2KM

Known as the "People's Marathon,"The Medavie 42.2KM is the keystone event of the weekend. This Boston Qualifying race takes participants along the full 42.2 km track through the streets of Halifax and Dartmouth, showcasing many of the city's top attractions, such as Lake Banook, North End, Point Pleasant Park, and the Halifax Harbourfront.

The Medavie Blue Nose Marathon is also an Abbott World Marathon Majors Wanda Age Group Qualifier.

  • Date: Sunday, May 17, 2026
  • Official Start Time: 8:00 AM
  • Official Race Closure Time: 2:00 PM
  • Distance: 42.2 km

Strum Consulting Team Relay

The Strum Consulting Marathon Team Relay takes the same route as the Medavie 42.2KM but breaks it up into smaller legs to be completed by a team. Teams can consist of four to eight participants and include corporate groups, charity fundraisers, families, and groups of friends. Participating in this event also earns participants entry into the Corporate Relay Challenge.

  • Date: Sunday, May 17, 2026
  • Official Start Time: 8:00 AM
  • Official Race Closure Time: 2:00 PM
  • Distance: 42.2 km

Blue Nose 21.1KM

The Blue Nose 21.1KM is the perfect event for those looking for a fun challenge but aren't quite ready to take on the full marathon. This half marathon race brings participants through the streets of Halifax, along the waterfront boardwalk, and through Point Pleasant Park and North End before returning to the starting line at the Emera Oval.

  • Date: Sunday, May 17, 2026
  • Official Start Time: 8:20 AM
  • Official Race Closure Time: 2:00 PM
  • Distance: 21.1 km

Evolve Fitness 10KM

The Evolve Fitness 10KM is the most popular adult race of the weekend. Short enough to be completed by running or walking but long enough to still pose an exciting challenge, the 10 km race guides participants through the streets of downtown Halifax and Dartmouth before circling back to the starting line at the Emera Oval.

  • Date: Sunday, May 17, 2026
  • Official Start Time: 8:10 AM
  • Official Race Closure Time: 2:00 PM
  • Distance: 10 km

Purple Cow 5KM

Scheduled for Saturday morning, the Purple Cow 5KM kicks off the entire weekend with one of the most exciting 5 km races in Atlantic Canada. Attracting thousands of participants each year, this shortened route guides racers through downtown Halifax while showcasing the Halifax Common, the Halifax Public Gardens, and Citadel Hill.

  • Date: Saturday, May 16, 2026
  • Official Start Time: 8:00 AM
  • Distance: 5 km

Doctors Nova Scotia Youth Run

Welcoming participants 15 years of age and younger, the Doctors Nova Scotia Youth Run is a great way to get the whole family involved in the weekend's athletic events. The race can be completed within a 2 km or 4 km distance and is a fun way to introduce youth to the exciting challenge of a large-scale fitness event while promoting active lifestyles.

  • Date: Saturday, May 16, 2026
  • 4KM Start Time: 10:15 AM
  • 2KM Start Time: 10:30 AM
  • Official Race Closure Time: 12:00 PM
  • Distance: 2 km & 4 km

Where to Stay for the Emera Blue Nose Marathon

If you are coming from out of town to participate in the marathon, you are going to want to book a comfortable accommodation nearby. Located in the heart of the downtown area, Cameo Suites is within walking distance of the starting line and provides guests the elevated comforts of home perfect for preparing for your race. Book your room now as accommodations tend to book up fast as the race weekend approaches.

Check out our complete event calendar for more anticipated community events coming to Halifax.