Event Overview
The Nike Melbourne Marathon Festival is held in Melbourne, Victoria, with events scheduled for Sunday 11 October 2026. The program includes the Nike Melbourne Marathon (42.195km), Nike Half Marathon (21.1km), SriLankan Airlines 10km Run, Dairy Farmers 5km Run, Chobani Fit 3km, and the Bupa Healthy Cities Mini Marathon (1km) for children. Marathon and half marathon start on Batman Avenue and finish at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).
What the Course Demands
Across the longer races, the festival is designed for steady pacing and efficient execution on a course described by organisers as fast and flat. The marathon route is noted for passing key Melbourne landmarks and finishing inside the MCG, which can shape how athletes manage effort late in the race. For shorter events, the main demand is controlled speed from the start, with a shared finish precinct at the MCG.
Who This Event Suits Best
This event suits runners targeting a major-city race environment with multiple distance choices on the same weekend. The marathon and half marathon can work for athletes seeking a measured, performance-focused run, including first-timers within the published age limits. The 10km, 5km and 3km options suit those wanting a shorter race-day effort, while the 1km mini marathon is limited to children aged 12 and under.
