The Perth Running Festival is a premier Australian road race featuring a flat, fast marathon course that concludes with an iconic finish inside the world-renowned Optus Stadium.
Course Highlights
The Perth Running Festival Marathon offers a spectacular and scenic route that showcases the very best of Western Australia’s capital. The course is renowned for its flat and fast profile, making it an ideal choice for runners aiming for a personal best. Participants journey through the lush landscapes of Burswood Park and follow the serene banks of the Swan River, providing tranquil water views and a cooling breeze throughout the race. The most iconic highlight, however, is the grand finale. Unlike many city marathons that end on a standard street, this race concludes with a magnificent big-screen finish inside the world-class Optus Stadium, giving every runner the chance to cross the finish line on the hallowed turf of one of the world’s most beautiful sporting venues.
Race Details
Scheduled for Sunday, October 11, 2026, the event features multiple distances to cater to all fitness levels, including the full 42.195 km marathon, a half marathon, a 10km run/walk, and a 4km family-friendly dash. The marathon is AIMS accredited and serves as a qualifying event for the AbbottWMM Wanda Age Group World Rankings, ensuring its status as a premier competitive race. For the 2026 edition, the marathon also acts as the official State Marathon Championship for Western Australia. The race typically begins in the early morning, with previous years starting around 06:00 to 06:30, ensuring runners can enjoy the cooler morning temperatures. A generous cut-off time of seven hours is provided, allowing for a diverse range of participants to achieve their marathon dreams. Registration includes a high-quality finisher’s shirt, a commemorative medal, and access to comprehensive aid stations stocked with hydration and nutrition along the route.
Why Runners Love It
Runners are drawn to the Perth Running Festival for its unique blend of elite-level organization and a welcoming community atmosphere. The “stadium finish” is consistently cited as a bucket-list experience, providing a professional-athlete feel as participants enter the massive arena to the cheers of spectators on the big screens. Beyond the finish line, the event is deeply integrated with the community, serving as a major fundraiser for Telethon, which supports medical research and children’s health in Western Australia. The combination of a flat, PB-friendly course, the stunning natural beauty of the Swan River, and the unparalleled thrill of finishing inside Optus Stadium makes this one of the most beloved events on the Australian running calendar. Whether you are a seasoned marathoner or a first-timer, the support from volunteers and the vibrant atmosphere throughout the Burswood Peninsula create an unforgettable race day experience.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of Australia’s most beautiful run. Visit the official website to secure your spot today: Perth Running Festival Official Website.
At a Glance
- Location: Perth, Western Australia — Australia
- Next Date: 2026-10-11
- Distances: [‘Marathon’, ‘Half Marathon’, ’10KM Distance’, ‘Burswood Park 4km Dash’]
- Start Time: 06:00
Register & Learn More
Visit the official race website for entry details, course maps, and registration: https://perthrunningfestival.com.au/




