Ascension Seton Austin Marathon Announces 2026 Austin Marathon Gives Charity Program

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Official Charity Partners to Fundraise, Raise Awareness, and Support the Community During the 35th Anniversary Event

 

The Ascension Seton Austin Marathon, Half Marathon, & 5K, in partnership with The Moody Foundation, the Presenting Partner of Austin Marathon Gives, is proud to announce the official charity partners selected for the 2026 Austin Marathon Gives (AMG) program, the Official Charity Program of the Austin Marathon. As the event celebrates its 35th Anniversary, the program continues its long-standing commitment to supporting local and national non-profit organizations while creating meaningful connections between runners and causes that matter.

Austin Marathon Gives provides participating non-profits with a powerful platform to raise awareness for their missions while recruiting runners to fundraise on their behalf as they train for the Ascension Seton Austin Marathon, Half Marathon, or 5K, taking place on Sunday, February 15, 2026. Through fundraising, volunteer engagement, and community storytelling, the program amplifies the impact of each organization both leading up to and throughout race weekend.

For 2026, 29 non-profit organizations were selected from a competitive application process, representing a wide range of causes including mental health, youth development, education, healthcare, environmental stewardship, and community support.

The selected 2026 Austin Marathon Gives charity partners are:

  • American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
  • Andy Roddick Foundation
  • Austin Parks Foundation
  • Autism Society of Texas
  • Camp Kesem
  • CureDuchenne
  • Dell’s Children’s Hospital
  • Down Syndrome Association of Central Texas
  • East Austin Conservancy
  • Flatwater
  • Gazelle Foundation
  • Generation SERVE
  • Ghisallo Cycling Initiative
  • GMT
  • Health Alliance for Austin Musicians (HAAM)
  • I AM REDEMPTION
  • Keep Austin Beautiful
  • LifeWorks Austin
  • Marathon Kids
  • Miracle Foundation
  • Odyssey School
  • Paramount Theatre
  • Sam’s Adventure Camp
  • SEVA Charities
  • Texas 4000 for Cancer
  • The LIVESTRONG Foundation
  • The Trail Conservancy
  • U.R. Our Hope
  • Upbring

Runners interested in supporting one of the participating non-profits can select their chosen organization during the race registration process for the marathon, half marathon, or 5K. Once registered, runners are connected directly with their selected charity and receive a welcome email outlining the organization’s mission, fundraising tools, training support, and instructions for creating a personalized fundraising page.

In addition to fundraising through running, individuals can also support Austin Marathon Gives charities by volunteering at official AMG volunteer positions along the course on race day. This option allows community members, friends, and family to take part in the Austin Marathon experience while directly supporting their favorite charity partner.

“The Austin Marathon Gives program is a core part of who we are as an event,” said Jack Murray, Co-owner of the Austin Marathon. “It brings together runners, volunteers, and non-profits in a way that creates lasting impact far beyond race day. As we celebrate 35 years of the Austin Marathon, we’re proud to continue using this platform to uplift organizations that do incredible work in our community.”

The Austin Marathon Gives program has raised over $6 million dollars for charitable partners since its inception, and the 2026 fundraising goal is $500,000. The program is further supported by the Moody Foundation, which provides matching opportunities to help participating non-profits maximize their impact.

Registration is still open for the 2026 Ascension Seton Austin Marathon, Half Marathon, & 5K, and runners of all abilities are encouraged to join Austin Marathon Gives by racing, fundraising, or volunteering.

 

 

About the Ascension Seton Austin Marathon®: Since its inception in 1992, the Austin Marathon® has emerged as a world-class running event, attracting participants from all 50 states and over 50 countries. With a course that spans every quadrant of this dynamic city, offering a festive atmosphere with live music throughout, the marathon culminates in a vibrant finisher party. The event also serves as a powerful force for good, raising hundreds of thousands of dollars annually for various non-profit organizations. The Austin Marathon elevates Presidents Day weekend into a grand showcase of athleticism and community spirit, making it a bucket-list event for athletes, enthusiasts, and supporters from all over the world.

Final Week Checklist: Everything You Need Before Race Day

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The Austin Marathon is almost here! Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned runner, the final week before race day is all about preparation, excitement, and making sure you’re ready to cross that finish line. Here’s your ultimate checklist to keep you on track and stress-free as you count down to the big day in Austin, Texas!

1. Confirm Your Registration

Double-check your registration details and bib number. Make sure you’ve received all official emails from the Austin Marathon team. If you have any questions, reach out to the event organizers now.

2. Review the Race Schedule & Expo Info

Mark your calendar for packet pickup at the Expo. Review the schedule for race day, including start times, corral assignments, and any last-minute updates from the Austin Marathon team.

3. Plan Your Race Kit

Lay out your race-day gear: shoes, socks, shorts, shirt, bib, safety pins. Don’t forget your favorite hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for that Texas sun!

4. Hydration & Nutrition

Stay hydrated all week, but don’t overdo it the night before. Stick to familiar foods and avoid trying anything new. Prepare your pre-race breakfast and any gels or snacks you’ll carry on the course.

5. Know the Course

Review the Austin Marathon course map. Familiarize yourself with water stations, medical tents, and cheering zones. Plan where your friends and family can cheer you on!

6. Set Your Goals

Whether you’re aiming for a PR or just want to enjoy the experience, set realistic goals. Visualize your race and remind yourself why you signed up for the Austin Marathon.

7. Rest & Recover

Prioritize sleep this week. Take it easy on your runs, stretch, and listen to your body. A well-rested runner is a happy runner on race day.

8. Transportation & Parking

Plan how you’ll get to the start line. Check parking options, public transit, or arrange a ride. Give yourself plenty of time on race morning.

9. Pack Your Post-Race Bag

Bring a change of clothes, recovery snacks, and anything you’ll want after you finish. Don’t forget your phone for those finish line selfies!

10. Soak Up the Austin Vibes

Enjoy the energy of race week in Austin! Visit the Expo, connect with fellow runners, and take in the sights and sounds of this amazing city.

You’ve trained hard now it’s time to shine! The Austin Marathon is waiting for you. Good luck, and see you at the finish line!

Austin Marathon Finish Line Festival: What to Expect and How to Celebrate

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Crossing the finish line at the Austin Marathon is an achievement worth celebrating—and the festivities don’t stop when you collect your medal! The 2026 Finish Line Festival is packed with activities, treats, and entertainment for runners, friends, and family. Here’s your guide to making the most of the celebration:

Explore the 2026 Finish Festival Exhibitors

  • GOOD GOOD Jams and Spreads: Refuel with delicious peanut butter and cocoa spreads—perfect for a post-race snack!
  • Recovery Zone: Soothe those tired muscles with Brave New Love Bodywork and Massage, take a refreshing Revive Plunge (cold plunge), or grab a recovery drink from ProBio Nutrition.
  • Red Bull Wings for Life Activation: Grab a cold Red Bull after your run and check out their exciting Wings for Life activation.
  • Siete: Enjoy a crunchy treat with free chips from Siete.
  • Meanwhile Beer Garden: Celebrate your accomplishment with a cold Darlin’ Texas Lager or a N/AHop Water in the lively beer garden.
  • HEB: Pick up some trail mix to keep your energy up.
  • Spurs Pop-A-Shot Booth & DJ: Test your basketball skills, dance to the DJ, and enjoy even more surprises!
  • PNC 13.1 and 26.2 Photo Ops: Capture your marathon memories with special photo opportunities.
  • Food Trucks: Satisfy your hunger with tasty options from Hombre Taco, Prime Bite Burgers, and Slab BBQ.
  • Live Bands in the Beer Garden: Enjoy performances by Tasman Sharp and Fusion ATX as you relax and celebrate.

And that’s just the beginning—there’s even more to discover at the festival!

Celebrate Your Achievement

Whether you’re a runner or a supporter, the Finish Line Festival is the perfect place to celebrate hard work, determination, and community spirit. Enjoy great food, music, and activities, and make memories that will last long after race day.

See you at the finish line!

Your Ultimate Guide to Austin Marathon Fun Stuff

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We’re officially in full send mode. The 35th Anniversary Ascension Seton Austin Marathon, Half Marathon & 5K is almost here!

From the buzzing Health & Fitness Expo to the high-energy finish line and post-race celebrations around town, race week is packed with unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re running, cheering, or just soaking up the vibes, here’s everything happening around Austin Marathon weekend. We’re still accepting fun stuff to add to the list! Submit your event here.

Pre-Race Fun

Official Shakeout Run
Friday, Feb 13 | 7:00 a.m. | Circle Lot, Palmer Events Center
3–5 miles to loosen up, then enjoy breakfast tacos, coffee, giveaways, and great company. RSVP here.

Rainey Street 0.1 Mile Marathon
Friday, Feb 6- Saturday Feb 7 | 3:00 p.m.| Victory Lap Rainey
One block, your pace, hydration encouraged (yes, drinks!). No training required, just fun. RSVP here.

GOOD GRIEF x ASICS Group Run
Monday, Feb 9 | 7:00 a.m. | Noble Joe Coffee Co.
Coffee, treats, energy drinks, and giveaways to kick off race week. RSVP here.

Morning Jo’s x Altra Group Run
Tuesday, Feb 10 | 6:00 a.m. | Jo’s Coffee on South Congress
All paces welcome. Stick around for raffles and physical therapy assessments.

Austin Beer Works Run Club x Saucony Group Run
Wednesday, Feb 11 | 6:00 p.m. | Austin Beer Works North
Join the Wednesday evening party for some easy miles. Arrive early to obtain Saucony wear-test shoes.

Eastside Beer Runners x Adidas Group Run
Wednesday, Feb 11 | 6:30 p.m. | Central machine Works
Come early to grab a pair of Adidas and stick around for post run massages from Brave New Love.

Your Mothers Run Club x New Balance Group Run
Thursday, Feb 12 | 7:00 a.m. | New Balance Store on South Congress
Join Your Mother’s Run Crew and A For Effort, in partnership with New Balance, for a shakeout for the girls. The first 100 runners will receive a special Little Words Project bracelet + shakeout long sleeves. After the run, stick around for post-run community + refuel with LMNT, a waffle bar, coffee, get tuned up ahead of race day with Dr. Nikki Wan, from Dynamic Sports Medicine & more.

Sweatcity x Adidas Group Run
Thursday, Feb 12 | 6:00 p.m. | Casa De Luz
Join Sweatcity Run Club, Adidas, Feetures, Alter Ego and Hydrate IV Bar fora 5k route followed by cold plunges, saunas, and Hydration IVs.

Endorphins Running Austin Fuel Bar
Friday Feb 13- Monday February 16 | 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. | Better Half & Holdout Brewing
Head over to Better Half & Holdout Brewing to check out their events happening all weekend including a free Fuel bar, Shakeout run, Cheer zones, After Party, and Medal Monday. Check out the full details here.

Rise and Run South Austin x Chingones Running Club Shakeout Run
Saturday, Feb 14 | 8:00 a.m. | Kerbey Lane 3003 S. Lamar Blvd
Free shake out run followed by breakfast at Kerbey Lane. Run is free, food is on you. Wear red or something festive & bring the love. Running is not mandatory, feel free to join for breakfast only.

Via 313 Freebie
Show your race registration to get a free cheese bread with any pizza purchase during race week.

IVitamin Hydration Lounge on S. Congress
30% off all IV Drips for Austin Half Marathon runners with code HalfMarathonIV Friday, February 13th – Monday, February 16th

Health & Fitness Expo Highlights

The Health & Fitness Expo Presented by PNC Bank is Free & Open to the Public

Friday, Feb 13 | 11 a.m.–7 p.m.

Saturday, Feb 14 | 9 a.m.–6 p.m.

What’s Inside:

Lock in exclusive 2027 pricing by following the neon signs at the Expo. Enjoy swag giveaways and a fun photo op while you’re there.

Shop exclusive Austin Marathon gear at the Fleet Feet Official Merchandise Booth.

Donate your old running shoes to Sneakers4Good. All proceeds from sneaker recycling benefit Ascension Seton Dell Children’s.

Find your name on the Runner Name Wall, featuring over 30,000 runner names and top team names. Share your photos using #RunAustin #AustinMarathon.

Sample N/A Hop Water from Meanwhile Brewing Co. and stop by their Polaroid photo activation.

Visit the BPN Bodega to shop limited-edition merchandise.

Meet the Pacers at the Pacer Lounge.

Snap a photo at the PNC Bank Photo Booth, the official sponsor of this year’s Expo, and pick up cheer supplies to bring the energy on race weekend.

Get a free VO2 max testing with Ascension Seton.

Enjoy GOOD GOOD Jams & Spreads sampling, and pick up your jar when you collect your GOOD GOOD Goodie Bag.

Experience immersive audio at the Shokz Sound Experience.

Check out the Red Bull Pace Breakers activation.

Jam with SPIbelt! They will have a DJ Friday and Saturday  Keep your hands free on race day with their assortment of race belts.

Visit Alter Ego Running during Hat Happy Hour on Friday from 3:00–5:00 p.m. for special discounts and a swag bag.

Enjoy participant discounts from:

  • Kane Footwear – offering all participants 10% off
  • Kindling Snacks – $1 Off Coupons on-site at the Expo
  • ProBio Nutrition – Austin Marathon participants receive 26% off with code “Marathon” at checkout. Buy now and be entered to win an epic giveaway at the Finish Line Festival.
  • Toe Juice – 20% off at the Expo and on their website until March 31, 2026 using the discount code “AUTX26”
  • ULU Recovery & Wellness – 20% off all drop-ins and free compression therapy with any IV from February 8-22! Discount Code is “RUN20”

Plus 50+ additional exhibitors, including Tracksmith, Austin Tri Club, Spurs Austin International Half, Sandcastle Seasonings, and more.

Cheer Stations & On-Course Fun

Need an extra boost? You’ll find it all along the course — from high-energy cheer squads to live bands bringing serious Austin vibes. Expect nonstop motivation as you run past official cheer stations and live music performances designed to keep your legs moving and your spirits high.

Official Cheer Stations

  • Mile 0.5: Official Cheer Station — Nike Well Collective

  • Mile 6: Official Team Cheer Station — RWECE

  • Mile 7: Official Cheer Station — GOOD GRiEF & ASICS

  • Mile 12: Official Red Bull Cheer Station

  • Mile 14: Official Cheer Station — Wheatsville Food Co-op

  • Mile 14: Official Cheer Station — Via 313

  • Mile 18.5: Official Cheer Station — Meanwhile Brewing

  • Mile 22: Official Red Bull Cheer Station

  • Mile 22.5: Official Team Cheer Station — Eastside Beer Runners & The Morning Jo’s

  • Mile 24: Official Team Cheer Station — The Vegan Nom

  • Mile 24.5: Official Team Cheer Station — Endorphins Running

Live Bands on Course
This wouldn’t be Austin without music. Runners will be treated to live bands stationed throughout the course, delivering everything from high-energy jams to feel-good tunes when you need them most. Whether you’re chasing a PR or just enjoying the ride, the music and crowd energy will carry you from start to finish. View the list of bands here

Finish Line Festivities

After the run, it’s time for some fun! The Finish Line Festival will include music, giveaways, food and drinks. Crossing the finish line isn’t the end, it’s the start of your celebration…

Meanwhile Beer Garden – Participants who are 21+ can come hang out and wind down at the Meanwhile Beer Garden. Enjoy a delicious Darlin’ Texas Lager or a non alcoholic Hop Water while listening to live music performances from Fusion ATX and Tasman Sharp.

SPURS – Hang out and shoot some hoops with the San Antonio Spurs while a DJ spins the tunes.

H-E-B – Stop by the H-E-B tent to check out their post-race goodies!

PNC Bank Photo Op- Snap a victory shot with PNC Bank 13.1 and 26.2 photo op.

Red Bull– Grab a cold Red Bull after your run and check out their Wings for Life activation.

Recovery Zone – You crushed your race now let Brave New Love Massage & Bodywork take care of the rest! Stop by to roll out, stretch, or enjoy a well-earned massage!

Revive – Recover like a pro with Revive’s finish line plunges to give your muscles the recovery they deserve.

ProBio Nutrition- Enjoy a free refreshing recovery drink from ProBio

GOOD GOOD Jams and Spreads- go grab some peanut butter and cocoa spread!

PR Gong – Hit your personal best on the course, give it a gong! Just be gentle, it will be ringing all day.

Food Trucks – We’ll have some incredible local food trucks serving up all kinds of post-race grub! Grab a bite to eat from our various food trucks including: Hombre Taco, Prime Bite Burgers, Slab BBQ and more

After Party & Post-Race Fun

You did the work, now let’s celebrate! Crossing the finish doesn’t mean that you have to call it a day. Austin has plenty of fun celebrations happening throughout town! Here are just a few that you might want to check out.

Official After Party with RAW Running 
Sunday, Feb 15 | 6:00 p.m. |Mayfair
Head down to the post-run party at Mayfair where everyone is invited! Rock your Austin Marathon shirt or your favorite party outfit – either way, come out and enjoy drink specials, friends, and partying all night long! We will have a DJ, free drink tickets, and an all-around great time. RSVP Here!

Official Medal Monday with Meanwhile x Mizuno
Monday, Feb 16 | Time 1:00 p.m.- 4:00 p.m.| Meanwhile Brewing
Chill out and enjoy President’s Day at Meanwhile Brewing. Bring your medal and keep the party going with $5 Beers (Meanwhile Pilsner, Meanwhile Helles, Secret Beach, Tender Robot, Darlin’) & $3 Hop Waters if you show your medal. Enjoy music, massages, professional Medal Monday portraits, commemorative finisher posters for the first 50 runners, ongoing raffles throughout the event featuring a mix of Mizuno and Meanwhile swag, and exclusive Mizuno footwear for sale.

Endorphins Running After Party
Sunday, Feb 15 | 1:00 p.m. | Better Half & Holdout Brewing
After your run head over the Better Half Holdout Brewing for post race fun. Free drink tickets for the first 200 people.

Fleet Feet x Adidas Medal Monday
Monday, Feb 16 | 11:00 a.m. | Zilker Brewing
Head over to Zilker Brewing on Monday and be sure to bring along your medal. Enjoy photo ops, drink specials and plenty of other surprises for those who took part in the race.

Endorphins Running Medal Monday
Monday, Feb 16 | 8:00 a.m. | Better Half & Holdout Brewing
Join Endorphins Running and New Balance for free coffee and biscuits.

Around Town:

Visit Austin Gift Shop– Swing by the Visit Austin Store on 5th street after your run. They will be opening early at 8am on the 15th (go check out the coffee bar) and all runners get a 15% off discount when presenting their bib and medal.

Central Machine Works – Not only will they be out cheering at mile 23 but Central Machine Works is a great post-race destination where they will discount people’s first beer by 26.2% with proof of having run the race with either the bib and/or the medal or volunteer shirt.

Maddogs Austin Hot Dogs– Receive a free Mad Dog with any hot dog purchase from 2/15-2/17 as long as you show your medal.

Delicious Breweries – Home to some of the best craft beer in Texas, Austin breweries are not to be underestimated! Here is a list of some of our highly recommended spots to visit.

Post-Race Brunch – Our staff gives their recommendations on places to catch come post-race refuel with your crew. With everything from pancakes to Austin’s famous breakfast tacos, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Parks to Enjoy – Maybe your idea of winding down and relaxing after a big run is to spread out a blanket in the lawn and soak in your surroundings. Lucky for you, Austin has so many beloved parks that offer stunning views of our city.

Final Word

From shakeout runs and Expo surprises to finish line festivities and after-parties across town, Austin Marathon weekend is more than a race, it’s a full-on experience.

Whether you’re chasing a PR, running your first mile, cheering from the sidelines, or celebrating with friends, we can’t wait to see you there!

Let’s run. Let’s celebrate.
Let’s do Austin Marathon weekend right. 🎉