PHILADELPHIA DISTANCE RUN
Philadelphia Distance Run: 6 world records on a fast, flat course through the city.
Race Date
Sep 20, 2026
Location
Philadelphia, PA
Quick facts
- Date
- Sunday, September 20, 2026
- Location
- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi) + 5K, 13.1 Miles
- Course
- Point to Point
- Terrain
- Road
- USATF certified
- Yes
- Finishers on record
- 4,697
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
Since 1978, the Philadelphia Distance Run has earned its reputation as one of the world’s premier half marathons. With a recent field of ~3,570 runners from 39 states and a loyal 26% returning each year, it’s a fall destination that delivers. The USATF-certified course is famously flat and fast—six world records have been set here—making it a prime PR opportunity for everyone from elites to first-timers.
The point-to-point route winds through Philadelphia’s historic streets, offering a tour of the city’s past and future. September weather typically sees mild temperatures in the low 70s. After crossing the finish, runners celebrate with a post-race party and a complimentary beer, with a finisher’s medal and race tech tee as keepsakes. It’s a well-organized, community-driven event that balances big-race energy with hometown warmth.
Race-provided description
World class fast. Welcome to the Philadelphia Distance Run (PDR)! Our world class half marathon and 5K will take place on Sunday, September 20, 2026. PDR is among the fastest Half Marathons in the world (6 world records have been broken here) and is known for its super fast and flat course. Whether you are an elite runner, looking for a new PR, or just want to breeze through the City of Brotherly Love with thousands of fellow runners, there is something for everyone at PDR! Your registration includes: Race entryRace Tech TeeChip timing w/splitsFinisher's MedalPost Race Party with a complimentary beer (1 per person. 21+) PDR aims to make registering as accessible as possible. If you are are unable to pay digitally or via a check with a paper registration, please email us so we can assist. Expo Details to come! More Info Stay tuned to our website for more information on the course, expo, corral assignments, and other helpful tips. Refund/Deferral Policy Due to the year-round nature and costs of event planning, PDR does not offer refunds but we do offer the ability to defer or transfer your registration for a fee.
Logistics
Race Day
Sunday, September 20, 2026
Start Time
7:30 AM
Giveaway
T-Shirt
Start Location
2600 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, Philadelphia, PA, 19130
Course Info
USATF CertifiedCourse Type
Point to Point
Terrain
road
Scenery
Urban
Difficulty
Ultra-Flat
Net Drop/km
-0.24 m
Separation
1.4%
Also Offers
USATF Certified Course
PA24006MNS · Philadelphia Half Marathon 2025 Pre-Verified
Relatively flat with minimal net elevation change. Loop course — start and finish are close together.
Quality Score
Standout775 years running
~2,947 finishers a year
growing or steady
26% returning runners
USATF certified · 5 timing sources · 8 photos
runners from 39 states
winner 1:01:01
typical high 78°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
61°
Afternoon (High)
78°
Warm — hydration strategy is key, start conservatively
0.1"
Precipitation
11 mph
Wind
71%
Humidity
Historical Finish Times
How 4,697 finishers actually crossed the line across 2 years.
Most recent
2022
Total finishers
4,697
Median time
2:02:16
Latest turnout
2,680
States
42
Turnout by year
2021–2022
Hover the histogram to inspect specific finish times.
Race Photos
Frequently asked
When is the PHILADELPHIA DISTANCE RUN?
The PHILADELPHIA DISTANCE RUN is held on Sunday, September 20, 2026, starting at 7:30 AM.
Where does the PHILADELPHIA DISTANCE RUN take place?
It takes place in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
What distances does the PHILADELPHIA DISTANCE RUN offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles), plus 5K, 13.1 Miles.
Is the PHILADELPHIA DISTANCE RUN course flat and good for a PR?
The PHILADELPHIA DISTANCE RUN 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 PHILADELPHIA DISTANCE RUN?
HalfRuns has finish records for 4,697 runners who have completed the PHILADELPHIA DISTANCE RUN.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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