Marathon

Nebraska State Fair Marathon

Nebraska State Fair Marathon starts and finishes on the Grand Island fairgrounds, combining fair-week energy with a certified Boston qualifying course.

Next raceSaturday, August 29, 2026
Distance categoryMarathon
LocationGrand Island, Nebraska
Boston qualifierYes

Every link above goes to the race, its timing provider, or an official registration partner. Last checked August 5, 2026.

Quick facts

  • Boston qualifying certified course
  • State fairgrounds start and finish
  • Marathon entry through Race Roster
  • Late-August heat that builds quickly after the early start

About the Nebraska State Fair Marathon

The marathon gives runners an unusual way to open a day at the Nebraska State Fair. Packet pickup falls on the fair's Friday opening, while the full race is held Saturday morning.

Course

The certified road route leaves and returns to the fairgrounds in Grand Island. Central Nebraska's open terrain supports steady running, but wind can change the effective difficulty of long exposed segments.

Race-day weather

Late August in Grand Island is often warm, sunny and humid, with thunderstorms possible. An early start helps, though temperatures can rise rapidly before marathoners return to the fairgrounds.

Past Nebraska State Fair Marathon dates and results

YearDateStatusResults
2026Saturday, August 29, 2026Upcoming

Nebraska State Fair Marathon FAQ

When is the Nebraska State Fair Marathon?

The 2026 Nebraska State Fair Marathon is on Saturday, August 29, 2026.

Is Nebraska State Fair Marathon a Boston qualifier?

Yes. Nebraska State Fair Marathon is a Boston Marathon qualifier. To use the result, you must run the certified full-marathon course within the qualifying window and meet the current standard for your age and gender. Meeting the standard lets you apply but does not guarantee entry, and net-downhill courses can receive a time adjustment under current B.A.A. rules. Review the Boston qualifying times and downhill-course rules, or browse upcoming Boston qualifier marathons.

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