The Houston Marathon started in 1972 with 113 runners and has grown into a January weekend that takes over the city. The 55th Chevron Houston Marathon and the 26th Aramco Houston Half Marathon run on Sunday, January 17, 2027, on a famously flat course that starts downtown, loops past Hermann Park and Rice University, heads through Uptown and Memorial Park, and finishes at the George R. Brown Convention Center. Both races carry World Athletics Gold Label status, and the half has produced some of the fastest times ever run on American soil. The weekend runs January 13 to 17, with a shakeout run, an expo and the We Are Houston 5K at Discovery Green on Saturday.
What to expect
- Allen Parkway (miles 23 to 24) has wide sidewalks on both sides, and dogs are welcome.
- The Memorial Park land bridge tunnels (mile 20.5) usually get a DJ and a light show.
- West University City Hall, near mile 11, is a family-friendly spot with activities.
- Bands, drumlines and cheer groups line the course, including an Elvis at mile 1.
What to do
- Cheer from Memorial Park or the Montrose stretch
- Run the We Are Houston 5K on Jan 16, 2027
- Walk the finish area at George R. Brown
- December 30, 1972First race
- Sunday, January 17, 2027 (55th edition)2027 race day
- World Athletics Gold Label (marathon and half)Status