You may love running, but chances are you love it a lot less in the cold. A great way to stay motivated in your training through the cold months (or any time of year, really) is to sign up for a race. After all, winter miles equal summer smiles.
Winter half marathons come with their own special magic and motivation, helping you chase that post-holiday bliss or kick off the new year knowing you can do something challenging. The type of winter half marathons we most prefer are ones held in warm locales or with themes fun enough to make you forget about your frozen fingers. Often, these are smaller races, too, which are some of our favorite atmospheres to run in at Half Marathon Guide.
Running a winter half marathon can help keep your fitness up, fight off the winter blues, and it’s a great excuse to travel to a warmer place for a running vacation. Just be sure you’re training with reliable cold weather running gear.
Ready to lace up and jump into the season’s coolest half marathons? Here’s our pick of the best winter half marathons for every type of runner.
Santa to the Sea Half Marathon
- Where: Oxnard, CA
- When: December 8, 2024
- Course: Mostly flat with a fun downhill finish, holiday-themed
Santa’s busy trying to cross a very different finish line this time of year, but this is certainly a race to celebrate the season. Starting with a larger-than-life Santa statue, this festive course runs through Oxnard’s scenic farmland and finishes right by the sea. The cheerful holiday vibe — complete with costumes and decorations, of course — makes it one of the most feel-good winter races. Perfect for PR-seekers and holiday enthusiasts alike, it’s a race that captures the season’s spirit on a fast course. Plus, there’s a toy drive for kids to add to that post-race high feeling.
Kiawah Island Half Marathon
- Where: Kiawah Island, SC
- When: December 14, 2024
- Course: Flat sandy beaches & maritime forests
The perfect destination for a weekend getaway, Kiawah Island is home to sandy beaches, maritime forests, and a very flat half marathon course. If you’re looking to run a relaxed race, play a round of golf, and chill in paradise, this is the winter half marathon for you!
Candy Cane Course St. Louis Half Marathon
- Where: St. Peters, MO
- When: December 15, 2024
- Course: Mostly flat with some gentle inclines, city and park views
What better way to celebrate the season than with a festive run through the Gateway to the West? The Candy Cane Course in St. Louis is one of the city’s holiday race highlights, and it’s got charm to spare. The mostly-flat course takes you through Forest Park, one of the largest urban parks in the country, with seasonal decor and cheerful volunteers at every mile marker adding to the winter magic. This race is great for beginners looking to keep things flat and fast or anyone who wants to enjoy a holiday-themed run with friends. close to home. Plus, there’s not only hot cocoa at the finish but all finishers also receive a candy cane-striped medal for a unique post-race memento.
BMW Dallas Half Marathon
- Where Dallas, TX
- When: December 15, 2024
- Course: Flat, urban with great crowds
Everything’s bigger in Texas, and that includes the BMW Dallas Marathon Festival. With several events and a huge expo, the half marathon is a race that you can easily turn into a full weekend trip and convince your whole running crew to come along. Plus, it’s hard to beat running through Dallas’s most lively neighborhoods in the mild winter weather.
Palm Beaches Half Marathon
- Where: West Palm Beach, FL
- When: December 15, 2024
- Course: Flat, ocean-front with portions in West Palm Beach & historic neighborhoods
Head to Florida for sunshine, lovely beaches, and the perfect winter race conditions. But be warned – you might never want to run in the cold again after running this race’s flat and scenic waterfront course.
Woodside Ramble Half Marathon
- Where: Redwood City, CA
- When: December 21, 2024
- Course: Hilly canopy-covered redwood trail
Finding a good winter trail run can be difficult due to snowy and slippery conditions. Luckily, the Woodside Ramble takes place on well-maintained trails that are perfect for a winter trail race. Located on the San Francisco Peninsula, this race allows runners to complete a trail half marathon while marveling at the towering redwood trees. Consider upgrading your trail running gear before this half.
Walt Disney World Half Marathon
- Where: Orlando, FL
- When: January 11, 2025
- Course: Easy but spectacular, festive themed race
Turn your half marathon into a family vacay at “The Most Magical Place on Earth!” The entertainment, creative costumes, and unique tour of the Disney Parks make this winter half marathon an incredibly fun run that your whole family will love!
Sarasota Half Marathon
- Where: Sarasota, FL
- When: January 11, 2025
- Course: Flat, mostly waterfront through scenic neighborhoods
Another race in Florida? Are you sensing a trend here?! The Sarasota Marathon takes place in a vibrant beach town, and its race course takes runners through the area’s most gorgeous neighborhoods and along serene waterfront paths.
Aramco Houston Half Marathon
- Where: Houston, TX
- When: January 19, 2025
- Course: Flat, fast, exceptionally produced half marathon for beginners
Known as the nation’s premier winter race, Houston attracts more than 25,000 participants for its race weekend events. With an incredibly flat course and ideal winter weather, the Aramco Houston Half Marathon is an excellent race with major PR potential.
Key West Half Marathon
- Where: Key West, FL
- When: January 19, 2025
- Course: Tropical, coastal, cultural and historical with a few hills.
A strong contender for the most beautiful race in Florida, the Key West Half Marathon is a scenic race through tropical paradise. Moreover, Key West is an unbeatable winter vacation destination, so this half marathon is the perfect opportunity for a racecation!
Louisiana Half Marathon
- Where: Baton Rouge, LA
- When: January 18, 2025
- Course: Flat through historic city sites and lakefront streets.
The Louisiana Marathon perfectly encapsulates the region’s festive vibe, making this race more than just another city run. Between the lively crowd support, scenic course, and delicious post-race gumbo and jambalaya, this winter half marathon is a party from start to finish!
Rock ‘n’ Roll Arizona Half Marathon
- Where: Tempe, AZ
- When: January 19, 2025
- Course: Mostly flat with scenic city and red rock landscapes.
The Rock ‘n’ Roll Running Series is known for “Bringing Fun to the Run,” and we can’t argue with them on that! Their exciting races take place all around the USA and feature upbeat music to keep your energy high with every step that you take.
Because of the comfortable southwestern weather, epic entertainment, and unique tri-city tour of Tempe, Scottsdale, and Phoenix, the Rock ‘n’ Roll Arizona Half Marathon scores a spot on our list. You just can’t beat the energy of this fun winter half marathon!
Carlsbad Half Marathon
- Where: Carlsbad, CA
- When: January 19, 2025
- Course: Out-and-back oceanfront flat coastal course.
Just north of San Diego, the city of Carlsbad is home to tons of kid-friendly attractions, incredible surfing beaches, and stunning waterfront paths. Since the Carlsbad Marathon takes place during the Martin Luther King Jr. Day holiday weekend, this race is a great way to enjoy a family getaway to California while also squeezing a race in.
Rose Bowl Half Marathon
- Where: Pasadena, CA
- When: January 19, 2025
- Course: An out-and-back mostly flat course with a start and finish at Rose Bowl Stadium.
For all the college football fanatics out there, you’ve gotta add the Rose Bowl Half Marathon to your bucket list! A part of the Conquer Los Angeles Challenge, this race has a fun yet competitive vibe to it. Best of all, runners get to cross the finish line in the same football stadium where the Rose Bowl takes place a few weeks beforehand.
3M Half Marathon
- Where: Austin, TX
- When: January 19, 2025
- Course: A net downhill tour of Austin’s neighborhoods with a finish in downtown.
What’s better than running in 60°F weather? Running on a net downhill course in 60°F weather! Thanks to its fast course through the heart of the city, the 3M Half Marathon has become one of Austin’s biggest running events. Plus, finishing the race at the Texas State Capitol building is pretty cool.
Charleston Half Marathon
- Where: Charleston, SC
- When: January 25, 2025
- Course: Flat, fast, historic and scenic
Charleston is rich in history and charm — and warmer than most places in January. The flat, fast course winds through historic neighborhoods, past grand oak trees, and alongside Charleston’s scenic waterfront. It’s a PR-friendly course but also a top choice for those who enjoy sightseeing while they run. With warm Southern hospitality at every turn (especially those mouth-watering post-race restaurants), it’s definitely a top pick to add to your winter race bucket list.
Big Beach Half Marathon
- Where: Gulf Shores, AL
- When: January 26, 2025
- Course: Flat, coastal, beginner-friendly
Dreaming of a beach vacation with a side of race to kick of 2025? The Big Beach Half Marathon has a course as flat as they come, following Gulf Shores’ coastline and offering plenty of ocean views to keep things interesting. It’s also one of the most beginner-friendly races around — flat, scenic, and welcoming, with a supportive crowd and laid-back Southern vibe. Great for runners looking to enjoy the race without worrying about a hilly grind.
Life Time Miami Half Marathon
- Where: Miami, FL
- When: February 2, 2025
- Course: An out-and-back flat course along ocean-fronts and rich Miami scenery.
Ready for some heat? Then the Life Time Miami Marathon is the race for you! Between the immersive tour of the city’s glamorous streets and gorgeous beaches and the vibrant energy of this event, this is truly a winter half marathon you won’t want to miss.
Surf City Half Marathon
- Where: Huntington Beach, CA
- When: February 2, 2025
- Course: Slightly hilly tour of the Pacific Coast Highway.
Earning its name for its breathtaking course alongside one of California’s most beautiful surfing beaches just outside of Long Beach California, the Surf City Marathon receives rave reviews as a top winter half marathon year after year. With the majority of the course following the Pacific Coast Highway, you’ll get to enjoy oceanfront views and a light sea breeze for almost the entire race.
Mesa Half Marathon
- Where: Mesa, AZ
- When: February 8, 2025
- Course: Net downhill through mostly picturesque desert.
Known for its impeccable production and fast downhill Boston-Qualifier marathon course, the Mesa Marathon is an extremely well-organized winter race option. During the half marathon, runners embark on a journey through desert passages, citrus groves, and peaceful residential areas.
Super Half Marathon
- Where: Colorado Springs, CO
- When: February 9, 2025
- Course: Out-and-back flat through Monument Valley Trail.
There’s no better way to kick off Super Bowl Sunday than with the Super Half Marathon in Colorado Springs. Despite being a smaller race, the local community shows up big time for this fun and relaxed half marathon.
Lost Dutchman Half Marathon
- Where: Apache Junction, AZ
- When: February 16, 2025
- Course: Varied terrain, scenic desert views
Set in the beautiful Sonoran Desert, this half marathon is a treat for those who crave a unique (and ridiculously beautiful) course. With breathtaking views of the Superstition Mountains and a mix of challenging hills, the Lost Dutchman is the perfect trail race for anyone wanting a change from the typical 13.1 miles on road. Bonus to the view: The 7:15 am start offers a magical desert sunrise, making it a race that’s ultra-memorable.
Skidaway Island Half Marathon
- Where: Savannah, GA
- When: February 22, 2025
- Course: Slightly hilly, marshy reserve course.
Another small-town race option, the Skidaway Island Marathon takes place in a serene community filled with marshes, rivers, golf courses, and impressive estates. Its peaceful, flat course, lovely scenery, and friendly crowd support make this race a hidden gem. Plus, you get to celebrate in Savannah, Georgia afterward in a season where it’s not sweat-drenching hot.
Cowtown Half Marathon
- Where: Fort Worth, TX
- When: February 23, 2025
- Course: Mostly flat loop course through Fort Worth’s historic districts
Said to be the quintessential Texas race, the Cowtown Marathon offers a unique tour of some of Fort Worth’s most historic districts, including the Stockyards. Featuring an ultramarathon, full and half marathons, a 10k race, and even a 5k race for kids, this winter race is one of Texas’s largest running events.
Rock ‘n’ Roll Las Vegas Half Marathon
- Where: Las Vegas, NV
- When: February 22, 2025
- Course: A flat straightaway down the iconic Las Vegas Strip.
Another race from the Rock ‘n’ Roll Running Series, this half marathon provides runners with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to run the Las Vegas Strip at night. A high-energy race featuring epic entertainment, upbeat music, and tons to see, this fun-filled party run will surely help you beat the winter blues. If you like the Rock ‘n’ Roll Series, you might also want to consider the California version in San Jose.
Publix Atlanta Half Marathon
- Where: Atlanta, GA
- When: March 2, 2025
- Course: Some rolling hills through Marietta Street, Centennial Park & Atlanta’s popular parks.
While it might not be your first guess when you hear the slogan “Running City USA,” Atlanta has earned this title for having the most people registered in a running club out of any US city. That being said, the city knows how to put on a good race.
With the Publix Atlanta Marathon, you can enjoy the region’s southern charm and comfortable winter weather while participating in this well-organized running event. Starting in 2024, half marathoners will have the unique option to choose between two race courses. Plus, there are several kids’ events as well, making this an awesome opportunity to get the whole family running!
Napa Valley Half Marathon
- Where: Napa, CA
- When: March 2, 2025
- Course: A point-to-point journey through Napa’s most famous vineyard terrain.
Claiming a spot on our list of the best half marathons in the world, the Napa Valley Marathon is an unbeatable winter half marathon for those who enjoy incredible scenery, gentle rolling hills, and of course, wine. Its excellent race day organization has also earned this race high praise and is part of the reason that this picturesque race attracts so many repeat runners.
Run the Alamo Half Marathon
- Where: San Antonio, TX
- When: March 2, 2025
- Course: An out-and-back flat tour of the city’s popular districts.
At the Run the Alamo Marathon, your race day will start with a bang thanks to a live cannon blast. However, the excitement won’t end there. Another uniquely Texas race option, you’ll literally be running through history as you tour some of San Antonio’s most iconic landmarks. Additionally, you’ll get to enjoy the warm weather of Texas right before it becomes uncomfortably hot and humid.
Portland Shamrock Run
- Where: Portland, OR
- When: March 16, 2025
- Course: A hilly course in Portland’s downtown, Willamette River, and Keller Woods.
Celebrate both your running achievements and Irish culture at the Portland Shamrock Run this upcoming St. Patrick’s Day. After racing around downtown Portland alongside runners decked out in shamrocks, enjoy the festive post-race party and a well-deserved green beer. Pro tip: Check out Oregon’s running trails to log some training miles on.
Big Island International Half Marathon
- Where: Hilo, HI
- When: March 16, 2025
- Course: A hilly course but with the most beautiful scenery of Hawaiian rainforests and the North Pacific Ocean.
Any excuse to visit Hawaii is a good one, but participating in the Big Island International Marathon is an especially great reason to explore the Aloha State. Running on the island’s stunning waterfront paths and through its lush rainforests will make all of the cold winter training worth it!
Honorable Mention: The Krispy Kreme 5m Challenge
- Where: Raleigh, NC
- When: January 27, 2025
- Course: Short, wacky, donut-filled
Okay, it’s not a half marathon — in fact, at 5 miles, it’s no where close. But it’s in the dead of winter and deserves a spot for sheer fun: This 5-mile challenge has you running halfway to the finish, stopping to devour a dozen Krispy Kreme donuts, and then trying to make it back without… well, you get the idea. Perfect for those with a sense of humor and an iron stomach, it’s a memorable experience that brings the laughs and maybe even a donut PR.
