
From the Organizer
The 18th Annual Midwest Financial Group Madison Mini Marathon is an exciting and scenic running event that showcases the best of Madison. Runners will pass by iconic landmarks such as Capitol Square, the renowned Dane County Farmer’s Market, State Street, Camp Randall Stadium, and the Kohl Center. The route also takes participants through the picturesque Arboretum, Picnic Point, and the University of Wisconsin Campus, offering a true taste of Madison’s charm.
After crossing the finish line, runners are invited to the 14th Mile Post-Race Party, where they can unwind and celebrate their achievement. Participants aged 21 and over can enjoy a complimentary beer, courtesy of Wisconsin Distributors. Those who prefer non-alcoholic options can enjoy a soft drink or bottled water.
The post-race party features live music and stunning views of Lake Mendota, making it the perfect way to cap off the race.
Events
Weather
It's too far out for a forecast, so here's what weather on this date is normally like in the area. A race day forecast will replace this as race week approaches.
Typical High
82°
Typical Low
61°
Chance of Rain
32%
Based on US Climate Normals data from Uw Arboretum - Madison, 3 mi from the venue.
Host City
Population
275,568
as of 2023
Elevation
871 ft
Nearest Airport
MSN
Dane County Regional Truax Field · 6 mi
Major Hub
MKE
General Mitchell International Airport · 77 mi
Time Zone
Central Time
From Endurance Grid
A big city race. Expect multiple lodging options and plenty to do the day before.
Race Location
Your Next Start Line
Every finish line starts with a single decision. Claim your spot at Midwest Financial Group Madison Mini Marathon, put it on the calendar, and turn “someday” into a start date.
61
Days to train
Coming Up
Loop the Lake - A bike ride to benefit our lakes
Less than a mile away
Train Like A (Movement) PRO
Less than a mile away
8th Annual Madison Gospel 5K, 10K, Run/Walk & Health Fair
Less than a mile away
No Fear All Fun
Less than a mile away
From Endurance Grid
Endurance Grid is here to help you understand the sport, decide if it's the right fit, and learn how to prepare. For course distances, logistics, and race-day specifics, always defer to the race organizer's event page.
The half marathon is the distance where you find out what you're actually made of. Long enough to demand real preparation. Short enough that it doesn't consume your life to train for it. Most people who run their first half describe it as the race that changed their relationship with what they're capable of. Once you cross this finish line, the bar moves. That's not a warning — that's the point.
Race day energy varies by event size, but the finish line feeling is the same regardless. Big races keep the noise going the whole way. Smaller races give you stretches where it's just you and the miles — and that solitude becomes its own kind of fuel.
The half marathon rewards people who show up for the boring training miles.
How long to train: 10–14 weeks. If you're already running consistently, 10 weeks of structured buildup is enough. If you're building from a casual base, give yourself 14.
From 5K to marathon, running races are the most accessible entry point into endurance sport. There's a distance for every fitness level and a community at every start line.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Midwest Financial Group Madison Mini Marathon
Aug 8, 2026