Your Ultimate Guide to the 2026 Hoag OC Marathon Weekend

Whether you’re gearing up for your first race or adding another medal to your collection, the 2026 Hoag OC Marathon Running Festival is an unforgettable experience. Set against the backdrop of California’s coastline, race weekend brings together thousands of runners, supporters, and community members for a celebration of movement, purpose, and fun.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from weekend logistics to training and fueling tips, so you can show up feeling prepared, confident, and ready to enjoy every step of the journey.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from weekend logistics to training and fueling tips, so you can show up feeling prepared, confident, and ready to enjoy every step of the journey.

Race Weekend Schedule: Everything You Need to Know

Here’s a quick breakdown of race weekend so you can plan ahead: 

Friday, May 1

• OC Lifestyle & Fitness Expo | 3 PM – 7 PM

Saturday, May 2

• Kids Run the OC | 8 AM – 12 PM
  
• OC Lifestyle & Fitness Expo (continued) | 10 AM – 5 PM
  
• Celebrate OC Festival | 2 PM – 7 PM
• Kids Run the OC | 8 AM – 12 PM
  
• OC Lifestyle & Fitness Expo (continued) | 10 AM – 5 PM
  
• Celebrate OC Festival | 2 PM – 7 PM
  
• Hoag OC 5K Run/Walk | 5:30 PM
  

Sunday, May 3

• Full Marathon Start | 5:30 AM
  
• Half Marathon Start | 6:30 AM
  
• Ultimate Finish Line Party | 7 AM – 12 PM
  

Whether you’re racing, cheering, or just soaking in the atmosphere, there’s something for everyone all weekend long.

Participate in One of the Challenges

Why stop at one race when you can earn extra medals and bragging rights? Sign up for one of these official challenges:

• Beach Cities Challenge: Complete Surf City, Hoag OC, and Long Beach Marathons (or Half Marathons) consecutively to earn the coveted Beach Cities Challenge medal.
• Combo Crush Challenge: Run the Hoag OC 5K on Saturday and either the Half or Full Marathon on Sunday to earn the special Combo Crush medal. Virtual participation is also available.
• California Time to Travel Challenge: Run any distance (excluding kid races) at both the San Francisco Marathon and the Hoag OC Marathon to complete this two-part California adventure.

These challenges are a fun way to stay motivated, push your limits, and celebrate your progress with some seriously well-earned hardware.

Can’t Make It to California? Run Virtually

No matter where you live, you can still be part of the 2026 Hoag OC Marathon experience. Our virtual race option allows you to complete your chosen distance on your own course, at your own pace, during race weekend. You’ll still receive a race shirt and finisher medal, plus the pride of being part of something bigger.

Run for a Cause

Make your miles matter by running for a cause. Through our official charity partners, you can dedicate your race to a mission that matters to you. Many organizations offer fundraising support and race-day perks, turning your training into something even more meaningful. It’s a great way to make your run more personal and powerful.

Packet Pickup Made Easy

All participants must pick up their race packets at the OC Lifestyle & Fitness Expo at the OC Fair & Event Center. The expo runs:

• Friday, May 1 | 3 PM – 7 PM
  
• Saturday, May 2 | 10 AM – 5 PM

Make sure to bring your ID and confirmation email. There’s no race-day packet pickup for the Full or Half Marathon, so plan ahead!

How to Start Training for Your Race

Whether you’re tackling 13.1 or going for the full 26.2, smart and consistent training is key. Here’s how to get started:

Marathon (26.2 miles)

• Start training 16–20 weeks out, especially if you’re newer to long-distance running.
  
• Plan for 4–5 runs per week, including one long run and one speed or tempo session.
  
• Gradually increase your long run distance, no more than 10% per week.
  
• Schedule cutback weeks every 3–4 weeks to allow your body to recover.
  
• Include cross-training (cycling, swimming, or strength work) 1–2x per week.
  
• Listen to your body. Rest and recovery are part of the plan, not a break from it.

Half Marathon (13.1 miles)

• A 12–16 week plan is typically enough for most runners.
  
• Run 3–4 times per week, including one long run and one day of focused effort (speed, hills, or tempo).
  
• Build endurance first, then add pace work as your fitness improves.
  
• Don’t skip rest days, they help prevent injury and boost performance.

Pro Tips:

• Choose a beginner-friendly or intermediate training plan that fits your current fitness level.
  
• Don’t worry about running every mile fast, easy pace runs are crucial for building endurance.
  
• Consider joining a local run club or training group for support and accountability.

Fueling While You Train

Your body needs fuel to perform well and recover properly. Start building smart nutrition habits during training so your race day runs smoothly. 

Before Your Runs:

• Eat a light, easy-to-digest meal or snack 1–2 hours before running.
  
• Good pre-run options: banana with almond butter, toast and jam, or oatmeal with honey.
  
• Avoid high-fat, high-fiber, or spicy foods before you run.

During Long Runs (over 60–90 mins):

• Carry water or an electrolyte drink to stay hydrated.
  
• Use energy gels, chews, or sports drinks to replenish carbs and sodium.
  
• Start fueling around the 45-minute mark and continue every 30–45 minutes.

After Your Runs:

• Eat within 30–60 minutes to support recovery.
  
• Combine carbs and protein, think chocolate milk, a smoothie, or a sandwich with lean protein.
  
• Rehydrate with water and electrolytes, especially on hot or humid days.

Practice all of this during training so you know exactly what works for your body on race day. Never try new fueling strategies the week of the race.

Race Morning Tips: From Wake-Up to Start Line

Race morning is all about preparation and staying calm. Here’s how to set yourself up for success:

• Wake up early and give yourself 2.5–3 hours before the race starts.
  
• Eat something familiar about 2–3 hours before start time (like a bagel with nut butter or a banana and oatmeal).
  
• Dress in layers, especially if it’s cool in the morning.
  
• Arrive at the start line early to allow time for parking, gear check, warm-up, and porta-potty lines.
  
• Do a short dynamic warm-up like light jogging, leg swings, or walking to get your body moving.
  
• Line up with your coral based on your expected pace, and remind yourself to start slow, the first mile should feel easier than you expect.
  
• Take a deep breath. You’ve got this.

Experience the Course

The Hoag OC Marathon course takes you through some of the most well-known areas in Orange County, including Corona del Mar, Newport Beach, and around South Coast Plaza in Costa Mesa. Expect coastal views, flat stretches, and plenty of local support along the way.

Whether you’re going after a personal best, raising money for a cause, or running your very first race, the 2026 Hoag OC Running Festival has something for everyone. Start your training, lock in your fueling plan, and get ready to enjoy one of California’s most scenic races.

Haven’t signed up yet? There’s still time. Click here to register and join us in Orange County for an unforgettable race weekend.