The Brookings Marathon returns for its 57th edition on October 3rd, 2026 in Brookings, South Dakota, United States. The race offers a variety of distances including the full marathon, half marathon, and relay team options. Race morning will see runners gather at downtown Brookings, where historic landmarks like South Dakota State University and multiple parks such as Dakota Nature Park await. The course winds through the heart of Brookings, showcasing its rich history and vibrant community. Participants can expect to run past the university's sprawling grounds, quaint shops in the historic district, and lush green spaces that offer a picturesque backdrop throughout the race. The atmosphere is one of camaraderie and support as hundreds of volunteers line the streets with smiles and encouragement. Since 1960, this marathon has become an integral part of Brookings' fall festival season, supporting local charities through participant fees. This year's event will once again bring together runners from across South Dakota to celebrate the area’s beauty and strong sense of community. The course venue is firm with a slight softness due to October's weather conditions, offering a challenging yet manageable surface for participants. The race begins at downtown Brookings' central park where a full marathon route stretches out over 42 kilometers (26 miles), while half marathons cover an impressive distance of 21 kilometers (13 miles). For those looking for a shorter challenge, the Scotty Roberts 5K will see participants run 5 kilometers around downtown Brookings.
Marathon Relay - TEAM MEMBER 42km • Start: 08:00:00 • Fee: Free
Scotty Roberts 5K 5km • Start: 08:00:00 • Fee: $23.60
To register for the Brookings Marathon, visit https://raceroster.com/events/2026/115178/brookings-marathon by September 24th, 2026 to secure your spot at this year's event. Bib pickup will be held on race morning from 6:30 AM - 8:00 AM in downtown Brookings; participants need to bring their payment confirmation and a photo ID. The start location is the central park at 15th Street and Main Avenue, Brookings, South Dakota 57006. The event welcomes runners of all ages with specific requirements for team members in relay events. First-timers should arrive prepared with appropriate running gear to tackle the course's firm surface and moderate UV exposure. The Brookings Marathon on October 3rd, 2026, offers more than just a challenging race; it’s an opportunity to experience the beauty of Brookings’ fall season while supporting local charities. This event is not only about completing a distance but also about coming together as a community for a great cause.
Races Offered
Half Marathon
Oct 03, 2026
straighten
Distance —
21km
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
08:00
sell
$55.83
Marathon
Oct 03, 2026
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Distance —
42km
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
08:00
sell
$71.93
Marathon Relay - TEAM CAPTAIN
Oct 03, 2026
straighten
Distance —
42km
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
08:00
sell
$131.03
Marathon Relay - TEAM MEMBER
Oct 03, 2026
straighten
Distance —
42km
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
08:00
sell
Free
Scotty Roberts 5K
Oct 03, 2026
straighten
Distance —
5km
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
08:00
sell
$23.60
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for October in Brookings.
thermostatTemperature
6.6° / 16.4°
wb_sunnyFeels like
2.4° / 12.1°
light_mode
Avg sunshine hours
8h 4m
water_drop
Avg rainfall
1.4 mm
ac_unit
Avg snowfall
—
air
Avg wind speed
16.4 km/h (Gentle breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
Low
terrain
Course conditions
Firm and slightly soft
sunny
Max UV Index
Moderate (4.0)
humidity_mid
Humidity
64.2%
wb_twilight
Sunrise
07:43
nightlight
Sunset
18:41
About Brookings
Learn more about the host city, Brookings.
Brookings is a city of 18,504 in the Glacial Lakes region of South Dakota. It is the home of South Dakota State University.
