Queen City Marathon Brings Regina to Life
A full weekend of movement, community and celebration returns to Regina this September, inviting runners, walkers and spectators to take part in one of the city’s most energetic traditions.
A weekend to mark on the calendar
The GMS Queen City Marathon re-turns Friday, September 11 through Sunday, September 13, 2026, transforming Regina into a vibrant hub of activity. From first-time participants to seasoned athletes chasing qualifying times, the event offers something for every pace and every age.
The weekend begins at the Conexus Arts Centre, where race package pickup runs Friday from noon to 6:30 p.m. Alongside it, the Wellness Expo and Runners Market welcome the public free of charge, creating a lively space to explore gear, connect with vendors and soak in the marathon atmosphere.
With road closures in place, par-ticipants are reminded to access the venue from the south via 23rd Avenue and Wascana Parkway. Planning ahead helps keep the experience smooth and stress-free.
Friday night lights
Friday evening sets the tone with the A1 Rent-Alls Night Owl 5K at 8:00 p.m. This non-competitive, all-ages event winds around Wascana Lake, offering a scenic and social start to the weekend.
Participants are encouraged to embrace the evening energy with headlamps, flashlights and glow-sticks, turning the route into a glow-ing ribbon of movement. Whether it is a first 5K or a casual walk with friends, the focus is on fun and community rather than competition.
Saturday for family fun
Saturday continues the inclusive spirit with the Family 5K and the ever-popular Mini Marathon for kids. Young runners take to the course in age-based waves, from a 400-metre dash for toddlers to a 3K challenge for older youth.
The setup allows families to participate together, with parents able to run alongside younger children. The emphasis remains on participation, encouragement and creating positive early experiences with movement.
The Family 5K, open to all ages, welcomes strollers and keeps the focus on enjoyment rather than results. It is a chance to be active together while taking in the beauty of Wascana Centre.
Sunday: race day energy
Sunday morning brings the headline events, starting early with the 42.2K walk at 7:00 a.m. and the full marathon run at 7:30 a.m. Both courses are certified by Athletics Canada, making them qualifiers for the Boston Marathon and other major races.
Runners and walkers move through some of Regina’s most scenic areas, including Wascana Centre, downtown streets and historic neighbourhoods. The course blends pathways and roadways, offering both variety and challenge.
The half marathon and half marathon walk begin at 8:00 a.m., followed by the 10K at 8:30 a.m. Each event welcomes a range of abilities, from competitive runners to those simply aiming to cross the finish line.
Relay teams add another layer of excitement, with participants sharing the marathon distance across five legs. It is a collaborative way to experience the event and build team spirit.
A city-wide celebration
The Queen City Marathon is as much about spectators as it is about participants. Residents are encouraged to line the course, cheer loudly and bring energy to every kilometre.
The start and finish area at the Conexus Arts Centre offers a central gathering place, but neighbourhoods along the route become mini celebration zones. Organizing a cheer station at home is a simple way to join in.
Music, signs, costumes and coordinated cheers all help lift spirits. Even small gestures, like clapping or offering encouragement, can make a meaningful difference to someone pushing through a long distance.
Spectators are reminded to stay clear of the finish chute and restricted areas to ensure safety for everyone involved.
Capturing the moment
Crossing the finish line is a mile-stone worth celebrating. Official photographers are positioned at key locations along the course and at the finish, capturing those unforgettable moments of determination and relief.
Participants receive their race photos at no cost, making it easy to relive the experience and share the achievement with friends and family.
More than a race
The Queen City Marathon stands out as a defining Regina event, blending athletic challenge with community pride. It brings together neighbours, families and visitors in a shared celebration of movement and perseverance.
With no prize money and a strong focus on participation, the event highlights personal accomplishment over competition. Finisher medals mark each achievement, while age category awards recognize standout performances in select events.
At its core, the weekend is about showing up, supporting one another and enjoying the journey.
As September approaches, the Queen City Marathon offers a reminder of what makes Regina special. It is a weekend where effort meets encouragement, where streets turn into shared spaces and where every step forward is worth celebrating.
TIPS for participants
• Pick up race packages early on Friday to avoid last-minute stress • Review course maps and start times ahead of race day • Dress for the weather and bring layers for before and after the race • Stay hydrated and plan for limited early refreshment stations in longer events • Ensure race bibs are visible for timing and photos • Pace wisely, especially in longer distances
How to enjoy the event as a spectator
• Choose a spot along the course or near the start and finish area • Bring signs, music or instruments to boost energy • Offer clear, positive encouragement to participants • Avoid restricted zones, especially near the finish line • Consider hosting a cheer station with friends or neighbours • Make a day of it by exploring the Wellness Expo and local surroundings