Around Cape Ann Half Marathon
Gloucester's Around Cape Ann Half Marathon offers a historic coastal run through seaside villages.
Race Date
Oct 18, 2026
Location
Gloucester, MA
Quick facts
- Date
- Sunday, October 18, 2026
- Location
- Gloucester, Massachusetts
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi)
- Course
- Point to Point
- Terrain
- Road
- USATF certified
- Yes
- Finishers on record
- 1,688
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
Since 1933, the Around Cape Ann Road Race has been a cherished running tradition, earning its reputation as one of America's oldest and most beautiful races. This half marathon unfolds along the picturesque coastline of Cape Ann, guiding runners through the charming seaside villages of Gloucester and Rockport.
The course is celebrated for its spectacular coastal views, showcasing beaches, harbors, and coves. While USATF certified, it features a net drop and start/finish separation, suggesting a point-to-point design rather than a loop. With a median field size of approximately 333 finishers and runners hailing from about 23 states, it offers an intimate yet geographically diverse experience.
This race is more than just a run; it's a celebration of New England's maritime heritage. The T-shirt giveaway adds to the value, making it a memorable event for those seeking a scenic and historic running challenge.
Race-provided description
Since 1933, the Around Cape Ann Road Race has been a running tradition. Considered one of the best and oldest races in America, the Around Cape Ann Road Race is also among the most beautiful race courses in New England. The scenic course wraps around Cape Ann’s idyllic coastline and travels through the seaside villages of Gloucester and Rockport. The race provides spectacular coastal views of beaches, harbors and coves. YuKan is celebrating our 15th Anniversary in 2026! Register for the Six Pack Challenge and Save 15% on all six half marathons!
Logistics
Race Day
Sunday, October 18, 2026
Start Time
9:00 AM
Giveaway
T-Shirt
Start Location
32 Cherry Street, Gloucester, MA, 01930
Course Info
USATF CertifiedCourse Type
Point to Point
Terrain
road
Scenery
Coastal, Small Town
Surface
Paved
Difficulty
Ultra-Flat
Net Drop/km
-0.52 m
Separation
16.0%
USATF Certified Course
MA19011BK
Net uphill grade — expect a more challenging race.
Quality Score
Standout657 years running
~333 finishers a year
growing or steady
7% returning runners
USATF certified · 6 timing sources
runners from 23 states
winner 1:25:00
typical high 61°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
48°
Afternoon (High)
61°
Pleasant conditions — light layers at start, comfortable by finish
0.1"
Precipitation
13 mph
Wind
75%
Humidity
Historical Finish Times
How 1,688 finishers actually crossed the line across 7 years.
Most recent
2025
Total finishers
1,688
Median time
2:09:00
Latest turnout
333
States
34
Turnout by year
2019–2025
Hover the histogram to inspect specific finish times.
Race Photos
Frequently asked
When is the Around Cape Ann Half Marathon?
The Around Cape Ann Half Marathon is held on Sunday, October 18, 2026, starting at 9:00 AM.
Where does the Around Cape Ann Half Marathon take place?
It takes place in Gloucester, Massachusetts.
What distances does the Around Cape Ann Half Marathon offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles).
Is the Around Cape Ann Half Marathon course flat and good for a PR?
The Around Cape Ann Half Marathon is a ultra-flat, point to point course. The course is USATF-certified, so finish times can be used for qualifying.
How many people run the Around Cape Ann Half Marathon?
HalfRuns has finish records for 1,688 runners who have completed the Around Cape Ann Half Marathon.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
Explore More Journeys
Can't make it to Gloucester? Discover other experiences that match your running style.
Search All Races