Following a record-breaking year in participation, community involvement, and charitable contributions, the Zeigler Kalamazoo Marathon is opening early registration for its 2026 event, starting on Tuesday, July 1st. The most recent Marathon, which took place in May, is estimated to have generated an economic impact of  $1,172,000 for downtown Kalamazoo and raised over $10,000 for local charities.

KALAMAZOO, Mich., June 28, 2025 — Registration for the 2026 Zeigler Kalamazoo Marathon, scheduled from Saturday, April 25 to Sunday, April 26, 2026, will officially begin on Tuesday, July 1st. Participants are encouraged to take advantage of early registration discounts and a bundled discount for Run Camp training by selecting the bundle option on the website at zeiglerkalamazoomarathon.com.

The 2025 Zeigler Kalamazoo Marathon, which occurred this past May, attracted thousands of runners and walkers from the Midwest and across the country. Participation increased by more than 20% across all race categories, providing a significant economic and cultural boost to the greater Kalamazoo area.

This year’s event is estimated to have created $1,172,000 in economic benefits for downtown Kalamazoo, bringing excitement and energy to local businesses and neighborhoods. Nearly 100 sponsors and vendors contributed to the festivities, creating a lively race weekend atmosphere with live music, food trucks, and pop-up cheering areas.

Participants also enjoyed the Zeigler Kalamazoo Marathon’s well-known spirit stations, which saw increased community involvement from organizations such as Western Michigan University, Guys Who Give, 5GP Running Group, Kalamazoo Academy of Rock, MidWest Enterprises for the Blind, and the Rotary Club of Portage, among others. Spirit Stations included Waldo Stadium, Donut Point, Pickle Pit, Bacon Station, and the Gummy Bear Forest.

The success of the 50 State Challenge, the Mitten Challenge – in partnership with the Wisconsin Marathon, and the Marathon’s virtual running events also contributed to increased participation from runners nationwide.

The 2025 race also continued to Drive A Healthy Community through charitable giving. With the support of participants, sponsors, and donors, the Zeigler Kalamazoo Marathon raised over $10,000 for local charities.

For details on volunteering, becoming a vendor, or sponsoring the 2026 Zeigler Kalamazoo Marathon, please visit zeiglerkalamazoomarathon.com.

About Zeigler Kalamazoo Marathon
The Zeigler Kalamazoo Marathon draws participants from across the U.S. by “Driving a Healthy Community” in the Greater Kalamazoo area and beyond. The annual community event features a Marathon, Half Marathon, Full & Half Relays,10K, 5K run/walk, PNC Kids’ 1K  as well as the 50 State Challenge. In addition, the event includes a health and wellness expo along with Packet Pick-up.

Previously known as the Borgess Run for the Health of It!, the event was renamed the Zeigler Kalamazoo Marathon in 2022 after Zeigler Auto Group became the title sponsor.

As of 2025, all races start and end at Bronson Park and run through Downtown Kalamazoo, with the full marathon, half marathon, and 10K passing through Western Michigan University’s Waldo Stadium. The marathon course also goes through the Winchell Neighborhood, the Portage Creek Bicentennial Park Trail, Stryker campus, Milwood Neighborhood, Edison Neighborhood, and Upjohn Park.

Known for its energetic excitement zones and water stations, the 5K, 10K, and Half participants can enjoy Gummy Bear Forest; and Half and Full Marathon runners experience the infamous Bacon Station, while all distances can enjoy the dill-icious Pickle Pit. All participants and spectators can participate in the Stryker Finish Line Celebration in Downtown Kalamazoo at Bronson Park.

Visit for more information.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Francis Mariela | 239.273.6976

SOURCE Zeigler Kalamazoo Marathon

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