Local runners can get ready to celebrate this week.
P3R, the organization behind the Pittsburgh Marathon, announced that registration for next year’s race will open at 10 a.m. Wednesday, followed by a free launch party from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. outside of Mike’s Beer Bar on the city’s North Shore.
The launch party will feature live music, giveaways and a 1-mile or 3-mile fun run, said spokeswoman Kelsey Emch.
Marathon Weekend — including the Marathon, Half-Marathon, Marathon Relay and 5K, among other events — is set for April 30 to May 2.
The weekend has steadily grown in popularity, rising from 10,000 participants when the Marathon returned from hiatus in 2009 to a record-setting 52,000 this year. Participants hailed from every state and several foreign countries.
Officials expects to top that record again with more than 55,000 participants in 2027.
“Whether you’re running your first 5K, walking the half-marathon, racing for a personal record or cheering on a loved one, Marathon Weekend is a celebration of movement that brings our community together,” P3R’s interim CEO Bob Shooer said in a release.
“We can’t wait to welcome participants from Pittsburgh and around the world back to our streets next spring.”
Those interested in registering for the Marathon or learning more about the launch party can visit P3R’s website, p3r.org/races.