Quick Facts
| Dates | May 21 – 23, 2027 |
|---|---|
| Location | Start/finish on the Halifax waterfront; courses through Halifax and Dartmouth |
| Region | Halifax Metro |
| Category | Sporting |
| Admission | 0 |
| Tickets | 2027 Registration & Info |
| GPS | 44.6476, -63.5727 |
About Blue Nose Marathon
The Blue Nose Marathon is Halifax's signature running weekend, held every Victoria Day long weekend since 2004 and organized by the Halifax International Marathon Society under the Medavie title banner. The 2027 edition runs May 21-23 with six events spread across three days — the full marathon, half marathon, Evolve Fitness 10KM, Purple Cow 5KM, Strum Consulting Team Relay and the Doctors Nova Scotia Youth Run — drawing more than 10,000 registered runners and walkers, plus roughly 1,000 volunteers, into the streets of both Halifax and Dartmouth. One runner-reviewer called it a very fun run through the major parks and attractions of both cities, with people on their front decks cheering and handing out snacks.
The 2026 marathon was won by Stanley Chaisson of Stratford, Prince Edward Island in 2:34:10, with Halifax's Abby Edison the first woman in 3:14:15 — a time that qualified the 25-year-old, in only her second marathon, for the Boston Marathon. Both winners told CBC the same thing about the course: it is hillier than most, but beautiful. The event is a Boston qualifier with a certified, mostly-loop course, and the full marathon drew 455 finishers in 2026, up from 344 the year before. The weekend doubles as the unofficial start of the Halifax summer season — the best time to visit guide flags Victoria Day weekend as the moment the waterfront comes alive.
Spectating is free and easy: the start/finish zone sits on the downtown waterfront, steps from the Halifax waterfront boardwalk, and the courses cross the harbour so both cities get a share of the action. Registration for 2027 opens via bluenosemarathon.com. Whether you run the 5KM or line the barricades with a coffee, it is one of the most community-powered weekends of the Halifax year — plan the rest of your trip with the Halifax Local Guide.
Make the most of your time in Halifax Metro - pair Blue Nose Marathon with our Halifax Dining Guide, Best Day Trips from Halifax, and US Traveler Guide. They're each packed with itinerary ideas, local tips, and everything you need to extend your stay.
🎟️ Tickets & Admission
The 2027 race weekend runs May 21-23 (marathon Sunday May 23), with registration opening via bluenosemarathon.com. The 2026 weekend drew more than 10,000 registered runners and walkers across its six events.
Tickets available through the official event website. Prices and availability subject to change.
📍 Location & Getting There
Venue: Start/finish on the Halifax waterfront; courses through Halifax and Dartmouth
Region: Halifax Metro
Plan Your Visit
How long you'll need
Blue Nose Marathon ran May 21 – 23, 2027 — 3 days in all, so you can pick the day that suits your schedule best.
What it costs
Blue Nose Marathon is free to attend. Buy through the official link in the Tickets & Admission section above.
Getting there & parking
Downtown venues are an easy walk from most central hotels, and Halifax Transit — including the Dartmouth harbour ferry — is often faster than driving on event nights. Street parking and municipal lots fill quickly around start times, so arrive early or park a few blocks out and walk in.
Nearby dining & things to do
- Explore Halifax Metro
Attractions, dining, and places to stay across the region.
- Nova Scotia Cities & Towns
Every Nova Scotia city, town, and region compared - what each settlement is best for, drive times from Halifax, and how they cluster on the map.
- Halifax Local Guide
The complete insider guide to Halifax - neighbourhoods, hidden gems, where locals eat, and off-the-beaten-path spots.
- Halifax Airport Guide (YHZ)
Halifax Stanfield airport guide: Route 320 bus and taxi fares to downtown, 2026 card-only parking rules, exterior lot $25 minimum, ALT Hotel layovers, and winter fog delays.
- Halifax Dining Guide
Where to eat in Halifax - from lobster rolls on the waterfront to fine dining and craft breweries.
Blue Nose Marathon FAQ
When is Blue Nose Marathon?
Blue Nose Marathon ran May 21 – 23, 2027 and has concluded for this season. Watch the official listing for any future dates.
Where is Blue Nose Marathon held?
Start/finish on the Halifax waterfront; courses through Halifax and Dartmouth, Halifax Metro. Coordinates: 44.6476, -63.5727.
How much are tickets and where do I buy them?
The 2027 race weekend runs May 21-23 (marathon Sunday May 23), with registration opening via bluenosemarathon.com. The 2026 weekend drew more than 10,000 registered runners and walkers across its six events. Tickets: https://bluenosemarathon.com/
Where can I stay nearby?
Recommended areas to stay: Downtown Halifax, Halifax Waterfront, Dartmouth, Spring Garden.
🌊 Explore Halifax Metro
While you're in Halifax Metro for Blue Nose Marathon, take time to discover the incredible attractions, dining, and scenery this region has to offer.
🗓️ Plan Around These
Stack your trip with more festivals and events across the province.