The 43rd annual Bayshore Marathon will bring approximately 8,000 runners to Traverse City on Saturday, May 23, 2026.
The event is expected to boost the regional economy by an estimated $2.5 million, with all races completely sold out.
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Race Details and Community Impact
The Traverse City Track Club organizes the event along the East Arm of East Grand Traverse Bay. It features a full marathon, half-marathon, 10K, and a kids marathon.
All race profits return to the local community as scholarships, grants, and planned giving. UpNorthLive will stream the event digitally starting at 7:45 a.
m.
Organizers note the scenic, flat course has remained largely unchanged since its inception. This makes it highly popular for participants seeking fast times.
"Not only do we get tons of great shoreline views for a majority of the race, but it's also a pretty fast, flat course," said Lindsay McLaughlin, Traverse City Track Club Executive Director.
"A little over 20 percent of the field typically qualifies for the Boston Marathon."
McLaughlin added, "We do attract a fast crowd, but also people who just love the Great Lakes, love northern Michigan."
Tourism officials emphasize that the massive influx of international and domestic participants generates widespread business activity over the holiday weekend.
"This is a huge help. It really is," said Trevor Tkach, President and CEO of Traverse City Tourism.
Tkach noted that runners usually stay for the entire weekend to explore local regional attractions. "I'm sure the wineries see a bump.
