Registration for 2027 is now open with a new 5K course, exclusive quarter zip for marathon runners, fun features at expo, and look ahead to the 50th anniversary. The 2026 Marathon generated a significant economic boost for the area amounting to over $1,124,000, according to Discover Kalamazoo. Additionally, more than $8,000 was donated to local charities and over $4,000 was provided in financial assistance to participants.
KALAMAZOO, Mich., Sept. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Zeigler Kalamazoo Marathon is returning to downtown Kalamazoo for its 48th year on April 24-25, 2027, bringing runners, walkers, volunteers, spectators, and an unforgettable community spirit to Kalamazoo and Bronson Park.
Registration is now open for all race distances with an exclusive training bundle available through Marathon partner Run Kalamazoo Run Camp. Select “Start to Finish Bundle” to register and save.
New for 2027 participants can expect an enhanced 5K course featuring fewer turns for a more enjoyable experience. Marathon participants will also receive an exclusive, commemorative long-sleeve quarter-zip as a signature apparel item. Additionally, the Beacon Health Expo will have exciting, all-day activities and experiences throughout race weekend. Looking ahead, organizers have also revealed that they have begun designing commemorative finisher medals for its 50th year in 2029.
The Marathon’s latest event for 2026 had over 5,000 registered participants, drawing runners from around the country while thousands of spectators filled the streets in Downtown Kalamazoo to cheer them on, generating a significant economic boost for the area amounting to over $1,124,000, according to Discover Kalamazoo. Driving A Healthy Community remains at the heart of the Marathon’s mission with more than $8,000 donated to the local charities and over $4,000 was provided in financial assistance to participants.
This past year participants also enjoyed Make Every Mile Memorable™ as they wound through the new and established spirit stations hosted by local organizations and companies which included Western Michigan University, Guys Who Give, 5GP Running Group, MidWest Enterprises for the Blind, and the Rotary Club of Portage to name a few. Spirit Stations included Waldo Stadium, Donut Point, Pickle Pit, Bacon Station, and the Gummy Bear Forest with many more featuring amazing local community members who brought big energy and excitement every mile.
Organizers also focused on uplifting and celebrating the Kalamazoo community by partnering with over a dozen downtown businesses and local attractions including Kalamazoo Nature Center, Kalamazoo Air Zoo, and Gilmore Car Museum, which offered free entries to all volunteers and participants.
For more information on how you can support us in Make Every Mile Memorable™ for 2027 as a sponsor, supporter, or volunteer please email hello@zeiglerkalamazoomarathon.com.
About Zeigler Kalamazoo Marathon
The Zeigler Kalamazoo Marathon attracts participants from all over the U.S. by “Driving a Healthy Community” in the Greater Kalamazoo area and beyond. The annual community event includes a Marathon, Marathon Relay, Half Marathon, 10K, 5K Run and Walk, and a Free PNC Kids’ 1K. Additionally the event hosts the Beacon Health Expo and Packet pick-up.
Formerly known as the Borgess Run for the Health of It!, the event was renamed the Zeigler Kalamazoo Marathon in 2022 after Zeigler Auto Group became its title sponsor.
As of 2025 all races start and finish at Bronson Park and run through Downtown Kalamazoo, with the marathon, half marathon, and 10K passing through Western Michigan University’s Waldo Stadium. The marathon course also includes the Winchell Neighborhood, the Portage Creek Bicentennial Park Trail, Stryker’s campus, Milwood Neighborhood, Edison Neighborhood, and Upjohn Park.
Known for its highly-spirited excitement zones and water stations, the 5K, 10K, and Half Marathon participants enjoy Gummy Bear Forest; and Marathon and Half Marathon runners experience the famous Bacon Station while all distances enjoy the dill-icious Pickle Pit. All participants and spectators can participate in the Stryker Finish Line Celebration at Bronson Park in Downtown Kalamazoo.
Visit zeiglerkalamazoomarathon.com for more information.
Contact:
Francis Mariela | 239.273.6976
letswork@francismariela.com
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SOURCE Zeigler Kalamazoo Marathon
