Delaware Marathon

Next race

Sunday, 18 April 2027

7:00 am start

Distance

42.195 km / 26.2 mi

Urban road

Elevation

Rolling · 150 m gain

150 m climbing

Race profile

Overview

The Delaware Marathon draws approximately 643 finishers each April on an urban road in Wilmington, United States. The Delaware Running Festival marathon is a USATF-certified Boston qualifier and Wilmington's flagship 26.2-mile race. The course tours Wilmington's Riverfront, Brandywine Park, and city neighborhoods on a rolling urban loop. Rolling terrain with moderate climbs shapes the middle miles.

Delaware Marathon is a certified 42.195 km (26.2 mile) marathon — the standard World Athletics marathon distance.

Typical participants

Approximately 643 finishers

Weather

Mild and humid spring

13–19°C · humidity 60–80%

Marathon weather guide →

Course & terrain

Delaware Marathon course

Course route details and elevation profile for race-week planning.

The Delaware Marathon is a rolling urban road course with moderate climbs. Starts and finishes along Wilmington's Riverfront during the Delaware Running Festival. The course tours Wilmington's Riverfront, Brandywine Park, and city neighborhoods on a rolling urban loop. Rolling terrain with moderate climbs.

Registration

Delaware Marathon entry requirements

Delaware Marathon is typically held in April. Registration opens through https://www.delawaremarathon.org/ and may use a lottery or tiered entry when demand exceeds capacity.

Getting there

Delaware Marathon travel

Airports closest to Wilmington for flight planning and race-week travel.
Closest airport

Wilmington International Airport (ILM)

6 km / 3 mi

Common questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Delaware Marathon elevation profile?
The Delaware Marathon has 150 metres of total climbing and 140 metres of descent over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). The course is rolling, with 10 metres of net climb from start to finish.
How long is the Delaware Marathon?
The Delaware Marathon is the standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles), certified to World Athletics rules. The Delaware Marathon is a urban road through Wilmington.
What time does the Delaware Marathon start?
The 2027 Delaware Marathon starts at 7:00 am local time on Sunday, 18 April 2027. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications confirm any last-minute schedule changes.
Where does the Delaware Marathon start and finish?
Starts and finishes along Wilmington's Riverfront during the Delaware Running Festival. Updated each year.
When is the Delaware Marathon and how do I register?
Delaware Marathon is typically held in April. Registration opens may use a lottery or tiered entry when demand exceeds capacity.
Is the Delaware Marathon course flat?
The course includes rolling with moderate climbs. Study the official course profile at before setting pace targets.
What landmarks does the Delaware Marathon pass?
The route follows the Wilmington Riverfront, Brandywine Park, and downtown city streets.
What weather should runners expect at Delaware Marathon?
Cool April mornings in northern Delaware with comfortable racing temperatures.

Last updated 11 October 2026. Edition dates and course details are reviewed regularly.

Close to this race

Nearby Marathons

Other races closest to Wilmington.

Wilmington Marathon
Myrtle Beach Marathon
Novant Health Charlotte Marathon
Yuengling Shamrock Marathon

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Planning guides

Related guides

Practical guides to help you plan, train for, and run this race.

Marathon Weather: What to Expect

Marathon Weather: What to Expect

How temperature, humidity, wind, and rain affect marathon performance — and how to use typical race-day weather when choosing a start line.

View all marathon guides →