The Cauldron Marathon & Half Marathon returns to Ocala, Florida on October 24th, offering a thrilling new fall tradition for runners of all levels. Ocala's newest endurance event is set against the haunting backdrop of the city’s trails and forests. The race starts at 2:00 pm with the full marathon route, followed by the half marathon start at 4:00 pm as dusk falls over Ocala. Both races are designed to take advantage of twilight conditions, enhancing the eerie atmosphere that defines this course.
Debuting alongside the established Cauldron Adventure Race, The Cauldron Marathon & Half Marathon marks its first year with a strong emphasis on community and endurance testing. Participants can look forward to spirited spectators along the route and an electrifying finish line celebration complete with costumes and awards for all finishers. Runners earn uniquely crafted finisher medals that celebrate their conquest of one of fall’s most unforgettable challenges. The course winds through Ocala's scenic trails, featuring a hard and dry surface ideal for trail running. Canopies of moss-draped trees provide cover as runners navigate twisting paths throughout the race day. Both marathons include aid stations along the way to support participants' hydration and nutrition needs. The full marathon has an elevation gain that challenges even the most seasoned athletes, with a cut-off time at 9:00 pm. Race morning temperatures in Ocala typically range from around 17.8°C to 27.4°C on October 24th, with an average of 22.6°C and high humidity levels averaging 75.7%. The weather forecast includes a slight chance for precipitation at 3mm, which should not significantly impact the race conditions given the hard surface trails. The Cauldron Marathon & Half Marathon offers two challenging distances: the full marathon (42.2K) and the half marathon (21.1K). Both races come with entry fees of $135 for the full marathon and $120 for the half, respectively. Early registration is recommended to secure your spot. To register, visit https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=135998. Bib pickup will be available at 4803 SE 58th Ave #4397 starting one week before race day or the morning of if you're unable to attend earlier. Participants must bring a photo ID and proof of registration when picking up their bibs. The start location is located on 4803 SE 58th Ave, Ocala, FL. All runners are required to be present at this address by race time for packet pickup or direct registration check-in if arriving late. Age requirements stipulate that participants must be 16 years of age or older. The Cauldron Marathon & Half Marathon in Ocala offers a unique blend of scenic trail running and a thrilling Halloween-themed atmosphere, making it one of fall’s most unforgettable endurance challenges for those who dare to enter the shadows.
Races Offered
Half Marathon
Oct 24, 2026
straighten
Distance —
21.1K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
14:00
sell
$120.00
Marathon
Oct 24, 2026
straighten
Distance —
42.2K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
14:00
sell
$135.00
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for October in Ocala.
thermostatTemperature
17.8° / 27.4°
wb_sunnyFeels like
17.9° / 27.4°
light_mode
Avg sunshine hours
9h 39m
water_drop
Avg rainfall
3.0 mm
ac_unit
Avg snowfall
—
air
Avg wind speed
11.8 km/h (Light breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
High
terrain
Course conditions
Hard and dry surface
sunny
Max UV Index
Moderate (4.8)
humidity_mid
Humidity
75.7%
wb_twilight
Sunrise
07:30
nightlight
Sunset
18:57
About Ocala
Learn more about the host city, Ocala.
Ocala is a city in North Central Florida. Here, rolling green pastures lead to crystal springs, gentle rivers and unspoiled lakes, and hundreds of horse farms gallop with thoroughbred natural charm and beauty.