Ottawa Half Marathon presented by Desjardins
Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend 2026
Sunday 09:00 AMOttawa, Ontario$110
Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend 2026
- Date
- May 23, 2026
- Location
- Ottawa, Ontario
- Events
- Races
About
About Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend 2026
The Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend is Canada's largest multi-day running festival, drawing tens of thousands of participants each year. Since its inception in 1975, the event has evolved from a small local race into a world-class running celebration, featuring six core races: the Tamarack Homes Ottawa International Marathon, Ottawa Half Marathon presented by Desjardins, Ottawa 10K presented by Otto's Ottawa, Ottawa 5K, Ottawa 2K, and Ottawa Kids Marathon.
The courses wind through the heart of Ottawa, showcasing iconic landmarks such as the Rideau Canal and Parliament Buildings. The marathon route is certified, Boston qualifying, and known for a scenic course through the National Capital Region, while the 10K attracts an elite field and hosts the 2026 Canadian 10K Championships.
Beyond the races, the weekend features a lively health and fitness expo, entertainment, charity fundraising, and challenge options for runners taking on multiple events. The Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend is a highlight of the Canadian running calendar, offering a memorable experience for runners and walkers across ages and abilities.
Schedule
Events
Please check the official website for up-to-date times and pricing.
Half Marathon
Ottawa 10K presented by Otto's Ottawa
Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend 2026
Saturday 06:00 PMOttawa, Ontario$75
Ottawa 2K
Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend 2026
Saturday 03:00 PMOttawa, Ontario$42.75
The Ottawa 17 km Challenge
Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend 2026
Saturday 03:00 PMOttawa, Ontario
The Ottawa 59.2 km Challenge
Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend 2026
Saturday 03:00 PMOttawa, Ontario
The Ottawa 36.1 km Challenge
Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend 2026
Saturday 04:00 PMOttawa, Ontario
Ottawa 5K
Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend 2026
Saturday 04:00 PMOttawa, Ontario$61.88
Ottawa Kids Marathon
Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend 2026
Saturday 01:00 PMOttawa, Ontario$31.5
Tamarack Homes Ottawa International Marathon
Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend 2026
Sunday 07:00 AMOttawa, Ontario$157.5
Course
Course Details
All races are road courses, renowned for being flat and fast, making them ideal for personal bests and Boston Marathon qualification. The marathon and half marathon routes traverse downtown Ottawa, passing major landmarks such as the Rideau Canal, Parliament Buildings, and scenic riverfronts. The marathon course uniquely crosses into both Ontario and Quebec, providing a mix of urban and natural scenery. Elevation changes are minimal, with only gentle inclines and declines, ensuring a smooth and accessible experience for runners of all levels.
Highlights
Race Highlights
- Canada's largest multi-day running event with tens of thousands of participants
- Six core race distances: marathon, half marathon, 10K, 5K, 2K, and kids' marathon
- Challenge options for runners combining multiple weekend events
- Scenic, fast road courses through central Ottawa landmarks
- Certified Boston-qualifying marathon course
- Ottawa 10K hosts the 2026 Canadian 10K Championships
- Festive atmosphere with spectators, charity fundraising, expo, and race-weekend events
FAQ
Race FAQ
When is Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend 2026?
Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend 2026 takes place Saturday, May 23 and Sunday, May 24, 2026. Saturday events include the Ottawa Kids Marathon at 1:00 PM, Ottawa 2K at 3:00 PM, Ottawa 5K at 4:00 PM, elite women's 10K at 5:45 PM, and Ottawa 10K at 6:00 PM. Sunday events include the marathon at 7:00 AM and the half marathon at 9:00 AM.
What races are part of Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend?
The 2026 weekend includes six core races: the Tamarack Homes Ottawa International Marathon, Ottawa Half Marathon presented by Desjardins, Ottawa 10K presented by Otto's Ottawa, Ottawa 5K, Ottawa 2K, and Ottawa Kids Marathon. Run Ottawa also offers challenge options that combine multiple weekend events.
Where does Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend take place?
Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend takes place in Ottawa, Ontario, with the official race pages listing Ottawa City Hall at 110 Laurier Avenue West as the location for the marathon, half marathon, and 10K. Runners should check their specific event page and start-line instructions before race day.
Where do runners pick up their race bib?
Race bib pickup is at the Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend Running and Fitness Expo at Carleton University Fieldhouse, 1125 Colonel By Drive, Ottawa. Expo hours are Thursday, May 21 from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM, Friday, May 22 from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, and Saturday, May 23 from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Run Ottawa says runners should bring their QR code and bib number for pickup.
Are course maps and road closures available?
Yes. Run Ottawa provides an interactive course map with routes for each event, road closures, and elevation profiles. The official road-closure page notes that temporary road closures will be in place across Ottawa and Gatineau on Saturday, May 23 and Sunday, May 24, 2026, with delays expected during peak race hours.
Is the Ottawa Marathon a Boston Marathon qualifier?
Yes. Run Ottawa lists the Tamarack Homes Ottawa International Marathon as a certified course and a Boston Marathon qualifying event. The 2026 marathon is scheduled for Sunday, May 24 at 7:00 AM and is listed as sold out on the official race page.
Can walkers participate in Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend?
Yes. Run Ottawa says many participants walk, speed walk, or pole walk during Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend. Participants should select the walking option during registration so their results are listed with other walkers in their chosen event.
Are strollers or dogs allowed on the course?
Run Ottawa says strollers and baby joggers are only permitted in the Ottawa 2K, and everyone on course must be registered, including anyone in a stroller. Backpack child carriers are not allowed. Dogs are not permitted in any event, except for service animals.
