Experience the 35th Anniversary of the Ascension Seton Austin Marathon
- Austin Fitness Community
- Feb 6
- 4 min read
Updated: Apr 24
AUSTIN (Austin Fitness Community) - The Ascension Seton Austin Marathon is back! For its 35th anniversary, it proves once again why it’s known as "The Running Social Event of the Year." On Sunday, February 15, 2026, thousands of runners from around the globe will take over downtown Austin. However, the finish line is just one part of the story. This year, the event has evolved into a week-long festival of fitness, culture, and community connection.
"We know the Austin Marathon is more than just a race; it's a full week celebration of health, fitness, and community," says Stacy Keese, co-owner of High Five Events. "As we celebrate 35 years, we want to spotlight the people and places that make Austin's running culture so special."
More Than Just Miles
While the main event kicks off at 7:00 AM on Congress Avenue, the party starts long before the starting gun fires. The 2026 schedule is packed with "shakeout" runs. These are relaxed, social gatherings designed to loosen up the legs and calm the nerves.
"LFG and shake out those legs!" the organizers urge, pointing to a calendar overflowing with freebies. From Feb. 8th through the 16th, runners can hop between events offering everything from "free drip and cold brew coffee" to "post-run tacos."
(Photo by Austin Marathon via Facebook)
The Week-Long Lineup
The festivities begin on Feb. 8 with a Fleet Feet Kickoff and ramp up quickly. Highlights include:
February 8th
Fleet Feet Kickoff Run
7 AM, Circle C location - Hoka wear test, plenty of post-run surprises.
February 9th
Shakeout Run
7 AM, Noble Joe Coffee - T-shirts for the first 100, free drip and cold brew coffee, free conchas, free C4 energy drinks, giveaways from Goodwipes.
February 10th
The Morning Jos x Altra
6 AM, Jo's Coffee on South Congress - Altra wear test, post-run raffles, complimentary movement assessments.
February 11th
Austin Beerworks Run Club x Saucony
6 PM, Austin Beerworks North - Saucony wear test, post-run raffles.
Eastside Beer Runners x Adidas
6:30 PM, Central Machine Works - Adidas wear test, movement assessment.
February 12th
Shakeout Run for the Girls x Your Mother's Run Crew x A for Effort
7 AM, New Balance South Congress - First 100 will get a Little Words Project bracelet and long sleeves. All runners get access to a waffle bar, complimentary LMNT, and injury assessments.
Sweatcity Run Club x Adidas
6 PM, Casa de Luz Toomey - Limited edition tees available for early arrivals, sauna and cold plunge, Adidas demos, running socks, hats, raffles for Blenders sunglasses, IV drip, sports massages, and a DJ.
February 13th
Better Half Coffee and Hold Out Brewing - Free coffee, free fuel thanks to Science in Sport, and free New Balance t-shirts while supplies last - all weekend long!
Ascension Seton Austin Marathon Shakeout Run
7 AM, Palmer Events Center - Post-run coffee and tacos!
Austin Marathon Shake Out Run x lululemon Austin
Starts 7 AM at Lululemon, ends at La La Land - Complimentary lulu latte tasting (while supplies last).
February 14th
Better Half Coffee and Hold Out Brewing - Free coffee, free fuel thanks to Science in Sport, and free New Balance t-shirts while supplies last - all weekend long!
Red Bull x Secret Disco Sports Shakeout Run
10 AM, 402 Jessie St - Probably free Red Bull and free SpiBelts for the first few people.
Austin Run Club x Nike Studio
8:45 AM, Nike Training Studio North - Post-run fuel and refreshments.
The Loop x Comedor x Nike Austin Marathon Shakeout Run
8 AM, The Loop Downtown - Post-run carbs and drinks.
Body Art Run Club Shakeout Run
9 AM, 806 Azie Morton Rd - Recovery hub and Garmin watch giveaway.
Fearless Run Club
7 AM, 200 S Lamar - C4 Energy drinks and Liquid IV.
Austin Marathon Shakeout
10 AM, Central Machine Works - Free food and drink at Central Machine Works! Awesome giveaways and a chance to win Goodpain hats or tanks, live music.
February 15th - MARATHON/RACE DAY!
Plenty of cheer stations will line the route, offering free food, snacks, and hydration. This could be a post in itself. Check back for additional updates.
Free coffee at Better Half, free fuel thanks to Science in Sport, and free New Balance t-shirts while supplies last - all weekend long.
February 16th
Marathon Afterparty
11 AM - 4 PM, Lefty's Bar - Free caricatures for finishers, flash tattoos, freebies from C4, and massages.
Race Day and Beyond
On Sunday morning, the streets will come alive with cheer stations, music, and the collective energy of a city that champions its athletes. But the endorphins don't stop at the finish line. The "Recovery Monday" Marathon Afterparty at Lefty’s Bar (Feb. 16) offers a well-deserved victory lap with free caricatures, flash tattoos, and massages.
Whether you're chasing a PR or just chasing the free tacos, the 35th Anniversary Austin Marathon is an open invitation to experience the heartbeat of the city.
Join the Celebration
This marathon is not just about running; it’s about community, health, and celebration. The week-long events leading up to the race create a vibrant atmosphere. Runners of all levels can participate in various activities, making it a perfect opportunity to connect with fellow fitness enthusiasts.
Be sure to mark your calendars for this exciting week. The Ascension Seton Austin Marathon will be a memorable experience filled with joy, laughter, and, of course, running. Don’t miss out on the chance to be part of this incredible event!
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