The M&T Bank Vermont City Marathon & Relay is Vermont's most scenic marathon and a premier running event, recognized as one of Runner's World's Best Spring Marathons for 2026 and a 2026 Vermont Signature Event. The target audience for this event includes seasoned marathoners and individuals looking to enjoy a fun day with friends in a team relay. The marathon represents the spirit of the community and showcases the breathtaking beauty of Burlington and Lake Champlain.
The event features a highly anticipated course design that allows ample opportunities for spectating during the race. The electrifying energy brought by Taiko drummers, Burlington neighborhoods, and Church Street Marketplace provides a community experience unlike any other marathon. With a breathtaking finish festival in Waterfront Park along the Adirondack and Green Mountain-framed shores of Lake Champlain, the event offers unmatched scenic beauty.
The M&T Bank Vermont City Marathon & Relay is the third largest marathon in New England, the second largest marathon relay in the nation, and the largest single-day sporting event in Vermont. The event attracts more than 5,000 participants, 20,000 spectators, and 800 volunteers every Memorial Day Weekend.
The event's program includes a 20th Annual Half Marathon Unplugged, which takes place on April 11, 2026, at Airport Park (Colchester) to Switchback Brewing Co. (Burlington). The half marathon is a great spring motivator and a training run for the M&T Bank Vermont City Marathon.
The goals of the event are to promote a lifelong love of running and provide an unforgettable adventure for participants. The event promises excitement, challenge, and a celebration of running like no other. The event's format includes a marathon, relay, and half marathon, offering something for everyone.
RunVermont also organizes several other Vermont running events and community-based youth programs that promote a lifelong love of running. The event is powered by Darn Tough Vermont and features a Sports & Fitness Expo.
