AKRON, O.H. (Aug. 29, 2024) – The FirstEnergy Akron Marathon, Half Marathon & Team Relay is excited to welcome participants to its 22nd annual event on Sept. 27-28, 2024. This year promises to be unforgettable, with new features and cherished traditions designed to celebrate every finisher’s achievements.
Marathon weekend is one of Akron’s beloved traditions, and race organizers invite the entire community to run, walk, cheer, or volunteer. Community-wide participation helps create the vibrant and supportive atmosphere that makes this event special year after year.
Health & Fitness Expo presented by the Akron Area YMCA Kicks Off Race Weekend
The festivities begin on Friday, Sept. 27, with the Health and Fitness Expo presented by the Akron Area YMCA at the John S. Knight Center, located at 77 E. Mill St, Akron. The Expo, open from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., is free and open to the public. It features race packet pickup, where participants can collect their race bib, shirt, and other essential items before the big day. Additionally, the Expo offers official race merchandise and dozens of exhibitors. Attendees can enjoy motivational speakers on the Blue Line Main Stage like Ali Feller, the renowned host of the popular “Ali on the Run Show” podcast and unwind in the Runners Lounge with KT taping and Normatec boots.
The Mandel Family Kids Fun Run presented by Akron Children’s Hospital Promises Family Fun
Also on Friday, families are invited to The Mandel Family Kids Fun Run presented by Akron Children’s Hospital. This free event starts at 214 W. Bowery St and finishes at 300 S. Main St, near Canal Park. The registration tent opens at 5:00 p.m., and the race starts at 6:00 p.m. With over 1,000 kids expected to participate, it’s a joyful event where children can run, walk, hop, skip, and jump to the finish line. We are delighted to welcome the Mandel Family as new supporters and thank them for their generous support.
Main Event: FirstEnergy Akron Marathon, Half Marathon & Team Relay
The main event takes place on Saturday, Sept. 28, starting with the Opening Ceremony at 6:00 a.m. The FirstEnergy Akron Marathon, Half Marathon & Team Relay begins at 7:00 a.m. at the Akron Art Museum, 1 S. High St, Akron, and finishes on S. Main St outside Canal Park. Participants will traverse a scenic route through Akron’s neighborhoods and historic landmarks, with entertainment and block parties at every mile. After crossing the finish line, participants can celebrate at the FirstEnergy Finisher Festival, featuring live music, food trucks, and more.
Join the Excitement: Volunteer for Race Weekend
We’re looking for enthusiastic volunteers to help make race weekend unforgettable! From supporting runners and managing fluid stations to cheering on participants, there are many ways to get involved. Volunteers receive a free event t-shirt, a commemorative pin, and the chance to be part of Akron’s cherished tradition. Sign up at https://www.akronmarathon.org/volunteer/ to join the fun and make a difference!
Schedule of Events
Friday, Sept. 27
- Health & Fitness Expo presented by the Akron Area YMCA:
John S. Knight Center, 77 E. Mill St, Akron
11:00 a.m. – Doors Open
8:00 p.m. – Doors Close
- The Mandel Family Kids Fun Run presented by Akron Children’s Hospital:
Start at 214 W. Bowery St, Finish at 300 S. Main St
5:00 p.m. – Registration Tent / Bib Pick-Up Opens
6:00 p.m. – Race Start
6:45 p.m. – Course Closes
7:30 p.m. – Venue Closes
Saturday, Sept. 28
- FirstEnergy Akron Marathon, Half Marathon & Team Relay:
Start at Akron Art Museum, 1 S. High St, Akron, Finish at Downtown Akron
6:00 a.m. – Opening Ceremony
6:59 a.m. – Wheelchair Division & Push Team Start
7:00 a.m. – Marathon, Half Marathon & Team Relay Start
7:35 a.m. – FirstEnergy Finisher Festival Opens
8:50 a.m. – Half Marathon Overall Awards
10:45 a.m. Marathon Overall Awards
1:40 p.m. – Course Closes
1:45 p.m. – Finisher Festival Closes
“We are incredibly grateful to Summa Health for being the presenting series sponsor and to FirstEnergy for their longstanding support as the presenting sponsor of marathon weekend. Their unwavering commitment plays a crucial role in making this event a success year after year,” said Anne Bitong, president & CEO of the Akron Marathon Charitable Corporation. “A heartfelt thank you to the City of Akron, the Akron Police & Fire Departments, our amazing volunteers, and all our generous sponsors. Your support is what makes this event possible.”
For more information and to register to run, walk, cheer, or volunteer, visit www.akronmarathon.org or follow us on social media @AkronMarathon.