The Stars at Night Half Marathon takes place entirely on the lush, illuminated golf cart paths of the JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa \u2014 one of the most beautiful resort properties in Texas. The course winds through the resort’s manicured grounds and the adjacent TPC San Antonio golf course, all under a canopy of Hill Country stars and holiday lights. The 4-hour cutoff time makes the route accessible to runners and walkers alike. All distances (half, 10K, 5K) start and finish at the River Bend Pavilion, a stunning outdoor venue on the resort grounds.<\/p>\n
The 2026 Stars at Night Half Marathon takes place Sunday, December 20, 2026. The St. Nick @ Night 5K starts at 4:45 PM, and the 10K and Stars at Night Half both start at 5:15 PM. Packet pickup is at the River Bend Pavilion from 12\u20134 PM on race day \u2014 no pre-race pickup required. Runners must carry or wear something reflective (headlamps available for $10 at packet pickup). Registration includes a custom race sweatshirt, finisher medal, free race photos, chip timing, and access to the post-race resort celebration.<\/p>\n
December 20 puts the Stars at Night Half squarely in the heart of the holiday season, and the race leans in fully \u2014 festive course decorations, holiday music, and a post-race party with resort culinary treats including fresh chicken tacos, house-made salsa, brownies, hot chocolate, and coffee. The JW Marriott offers discounted room rates exclusively for race participants, turning the event into a true race-cation. The combination of nighttime running, resort luxury, and holiday celebration is unlike any other race experience in Texas.<\/p>\n
The Stars at Night Half delivers a complete evening experience that begins before sunset and ends under the Hill Country sky. The resort setting removes many of the logistical complications of urban racing \u2014 parking is on-site, the finish line is steps from comfortable restrooms and facilities, and the post-race food and drink is resort-quality rather than race-tent standard. The limited capacity (early sellouts are common) gives the event a boutique feel that participants appreciate. Benefits support St. Mark’s Mobile Loaves & Fishes.<\/p>\n