City of Lakes Half Marathon

Run the scenic parkways around Lake Harriet and Bde Maka Ska!

The Jeff Winter City of Lakes Half Marathon is the USATF Minnesota Half Marathon Championship. It has been bringing together people who love running for over 60 years. Circling Lake Harriet and Bde Maka Ska in South Minneapolis providing striking views for runners and spectators.

Run Minneapolis’ Most Scenic Half Marathon

This USATF-certified course offers stunning views and a fast, flat route. It’s perfect for both seasoned runners and first-timers. The course is limited to 1,800 participants and it will sell out. Register early to secure your spot, save, and receive exclusive perks.

Tier 1 – Lowest Pricing: Early Bird (September 8, 2025 – September 14, 2025)

This pricing is the absolute lowest pricing for the City of Lakes Half Marathon. You have to lock it in early or you will pay more to register for the City of Lakes.

Momentum Members of Run Minnesota are guaranteed this pricing tier as long as there are bibs available. Login to your member portal to get the code if you are registering outside of the Early Bird window.

Tier 2 – December 1 – February 28

Standard members of Run Minnesota are guaranteed this pricing tier as long as the registration remains open. Log in to our member portal to get this code if you are registering after this window.

Tier 3 – March 1 – May 31

Tier 4 – June 1 – September 4th or Sell Out

This race will sell out. The above pricing bumps will only happen if there are still bibs available at the time.

What is Included

Free race photos will be available for download. Make sure your bib number is visible so we can identify you!
Finisher pint glass.
A USATF-Certified, flat, and fast course.
Pacers: Available for goal times from 1:30 to 3:00.
Awards: Top 3 in Men, Women, and Non-Binary categories receive cash prizes.
Cheerful crowds and community vibes.
The satisfaction of supporting nonprofits that strengthen the Minneapolis area.

Event Details

Date: Sunday, September 13, 2026

Location: Beard’s Plaisance, Minneapolis, MN

Start Time:

8:00 am Central

Packet Pick-up

Race Day: Near the Tennis Courts at Beard’s Plaisance, near 44th and Lake Parkway West.

Aid Stations: Hydration stations are available every 5k. See course map for exact locations.

Pacers: Available to help you reach your goal time. The goal finishing times are 1:30, 1:40, 1:50, 2:00, 2:10, 2:20, 2:30, 2:45, and 3:00.

Retail Sponsor

Healthcare Sponsor:

Chiropractic Sponsor

CHARITY PARTNERS

Mile in My Shoes

A Twin Cities based nonprofit using the power of running to bring together people from diverse backgrounds to build connections, boost wellness, spark social change, and center people traditionally excluded from running. Fund-racers for MiMS receive a complementary entry into the City of Lakes Half Marathon. Learn more here.

Elite Runners

Complementary entries into the race are limited to those who have run under the standards below within the last year. There are a limited number of elite runner entries available and they are only available on a first come, first serve basis. The time standards for elite runners in 2025 are:

Men – sub 72
Women – sub 82
Non-Binary – sub 82

Contact the race director here for elite entry

Awards

Prize Money:

Cash prizes to 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place overall finishers in men’s, women’s, and non-binary categories.

All awards are based on Gun Time and follow the USATF rules of competition.

be a Part of Minnesota Running History

The Jeff Winter City of Lakes Half Marathon is an iconic Minnesota race that has united runners for over 60 years. Join us to celebrate those who are aiming for the personal bests and those who are running their first marathon and everyone in between!

Don’t miss out on this unforgettable event – sign up now for the City of Lakes Half Marathon! See you at the starting line!

City of Lakes Half Marathon