The launch conference for the 2026 Xi'an Marathon was held on Aug 4, announcing that the 2026 race will kick off on Oct 18. Registration is now open and will close on Aug 20.

The launch ceremony of the 2026 Xi'an Marathon. [Photo/Xi'an news network]

Launched in 2017, the Xi'an Marathon has ignited the city's enthusiasm for sports. This year's race is capped at 36,000 runners, with 24,000 slots for the full marathon and 12,000 slots for the half‑marathon.

Both the full marathon and the half-marathon will start at Yongning Gate. The full marathon will finish at the Xi'an Olympic Sports Center Stadium, while the half‑marathon will end at the Xi'an International Convention and Exhibition Center.

The race route winds past numerous historic sites, including the Bell Tower, Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, and Daming Palace, presenting runners with a blend of ancient and contemporary city vistas.

On race day, more than 40 themed cultural stations will be set up along the route, staging traditional performances to showcase the city's cultural charm. Partnering with museums and local cultural brands, the race will also launch a variety of exclusive commemorative products, giving both runners and residents unique keepsakes to remember the event.