Fargo Mini Marathon
Fargo Mini Marathon offers a fast, scenic Red River path experience with strong community support.
Race Date
Oct 16, 2026
Location
Fargo, ND
Quick facts
- Date
- Friday, October 16, 2026
- Location
- Fargo, North Dakota
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi) + 3.1 Miles, 6.2 Miles, 16.2 Miles, 9.3 Miles
- Course
- Loop Course
- Terrain
- Road
- USATF certified
- Yes
- Finishers on record
- 5,439
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
The Fargo Mini Marathon, now in its 11th year, has established itself as a beloved community event in Fargo, North Dakota. Runners can expect a fast and scenic experience, with nearly 90% of the half marathon course utilizing the picturesque Red River bike paths. This flat, certified course is designed for speed, making it an attractive option for those aiming for a personal best.
The race weekend kicks off with a festive Friday night 5K, encouraging costumes and a fun atmosphere, followed by Saturday's 10K and Half Marathon. The event draws participants from around 13 states, with recent editions seeing around 640 finishers, indicating a growing field. The Fargo Mini Marathon is also committed to giving back, supporting the Mark Knutson Shoes for Kids Legacy Fund.
With its start and finish inside the Fargo Civic Center, the event offers a well-supported race through the heart of the community. Runners can look forward to a blend of competitive racing and community celebration, all set against the backdrop of the Red River valley.
Race-provided description
🏃♂️ Fargo Mini 2026...
Back for Another Year!
After a highly successful return in 2025, the Fargo Mini is officially back for 2026! 🎉 Runners, families, and the Fargo–Moorhead community came out in a big way, and we’re excited to build on that energy for another unforgettable race weekend. The Fargo Mini features a 5K, 10K, and Half Marathon, welcoming everyone from first-time racers to seasoned runners chasing new goals. With a start and finish inside the Fargo Civic Center and nearly 90% of the course along the scenic Red River bike paths, this event offers a fast, fun, and beautiful race experience through the heart of our community. The Friday night 5K returns with its fun, festive atmosphere (costumes encouraged), followed by Saturday’s 10K and Half Marathon, perfect for runners looking to challenge themselves on a well-supported course. Once again, the Fargo Mini is proud to support the Mark Knutson Shoes for Kids Legacy Fund, continuing a legacy of giving back and helping ensure kids in our community have access to shoes and opportunities to stay active. Whether you’re racing for a PR, running with friends, or simply soaking in the energy of race weekend, the Fargo Mini is about community, celebration, and the joy of running. 📍 Location: Fargo Civic Center 📅 Date: October 16 & 17, 2026 🏁 Distances: 5K | 10K | Half Marathon Join us as we continue this exciting new chapter of the Fargo Mini...bigger, stronger, and here to stay.
Logistics
Race Day
Friday, October 16, 2026
Start Time
8:00 AM
Giveaway
Shirt + Bag
Start Location
207 4th St. N., Fargo, ND, 58102
Course Info
USATF CertifiedCourse Type
Loop Course
Terrain
road
Scenery
Lake River
Surface
Paved
Difficulty
Ultra-Flat
Net Drop/km
0 m (Flat)
Separation
0.0%
Also Offers
USATF Certified Course
ND25004TRR · Fargo Half Marathon
Relatively flat with minimal net elevation change. Loop course — start and finish are close together.
Quality Score
Standout7311 years running
~527 finishers a year
growing or steady
0% returning runners
USATF certified · 5 timing sources · 6 photos
runners from 13 states
winner 1:12:43
typical high 56°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
40°
Afternoon (High)
56°
Ideal racing weather — cool and comfortable
0.1"
Precipitation
13 mph
Wind
67%
Humidity
Historical Finish Times
How 5,439 finishers actually crossed the line across 11 years.
Most recent
2025
Total finishers
5,439
Median time
2:01:43
Latest turnout
333
States
40
Turnout by year
2012–2025
Hover the histogram to inspect specific finish times.
Race Photos
Frequently asked
When is the Fargo Mini Marathon?
The Fargo Mini Marathon is held on Friday, October 16, 2026, starting at 8:00 AM.
Where does the Fargo Mini Marathon take place?
It takes place in Fargo, North Dakota.
What distances does the Fargo Mini Marathon offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles), plus 3.1 Miles, 6.2 Miles, 16.2 Miles, 9.3 Miles.
Is the Fargo Mini Marathon course flat and good for a PR?
The Fargo Mini Marathon is a ultra-flat, loop course course. The course is USATF-certified, so finish times can be used for qualifying.
How many people run the Fargo Mini Marathon?
HalfRuns has finish records for 5,439 runners who have completed the Fargo Mini Marathon.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
Explore More Journeys
Can't make it to Fargo? Discover other experiences that match your running style.
Search All Races
