Entry fees for the Day of the Dead Half Marathon in San Marcos range from $15 to $90, depending on registration timing. The race starts at 6:55 AM at Tanger Outlets and offers multiple distance options: a half marathon, 5-mile run, 1-mile run, and a 20-yard dash. Held on October 3, 2026, the event accommodates both in-person racers and those who prefer virtual participation. This flexibility allows endurance athletes traveling to central Texas to choose their preferred racing format and distance level.
From the Race Organizer
Location Confirmed: Tanger Outlets Get ready for the Day of the Dead Half Marathon! Starting at 7:00 a.m., this festive 13.1-mile race begins at Tanger Outlets and takes runners on a paved road course through the surrounding area, where every mile is filled with energy, celebration, and the vibrant spirit of Day of the Dead. As race morning begins, you'll gather at the starting line alongside fellow runners, ready to take on an unforgettable challenge. After leaving the excitement of Tanger Outlets, the course follows smooth roadways through the surrounding community, offering plenty of space to settle into your pace and enjoy the camaraderie of race day. Whether you're chasing a personal record or crossing your first half marathon off your bucket list, every mile brings a rewarding experience. Aid stations throughout the course provide hydration and encouragement to keep you moving strong from start to finish. Friendly volunteers and cheering participants create an uplifting atmosphere that will keep you motivated every step of the way. As you make your way back toward the finish, the excitement builds with spectators cheering you on as you return to Tanger Outlets. Cross the finish line and celebrate your accomplishment at the post-race rally, where festive Day of the Dead decorations, music, delicious refreshments, and a welcoming community of runners await. The Day of the Dead Half Marathon is a celebration of life, remembrance, and community, bringing runners together for an unforgettable race experience. Lace up your running shoes and join us for a morning filled with festive traditions, great company, and memories that will last long after you cross the finish line. Run to remember. Run to celebrate. COSTUME CONTEST At the heart of the "Day of the Dead Half Marathon: Texas Parks Edition" is an exciting costume contest that invites runners to fully embrace the spirit of Dia de los Muertos. Before the race kicks off, participants gather at the starting area, showcasing their most creative and vibrant costumes. From intricately painted calavera faces to elaborate skeletal attire, the costumes transform the park into a colorful celebration of life and memory. A panel of judges evaluates the costumes based on creativity, authenticity, and overall impact. The winner is awarded the coveted "Day of the Dead Best Costume Award," along with a special prize package, right before the race begins. This pre-race contest adds an extra layer of excitement and camaraderie, encouraging participants to run in style and celebrate in true Day of the Dead fashion from the very start. Join in all the festivities you have come to expect from a Bigfoot Running Company event. Awesome medals, cool Tee's, high energy staff, 100% focus on participant experience, live awards, and lets not forget the coveted Bigfoot Trophy's. Snacks and refreshments will be available when you finish at the race rally tent. Our DJ will be playing all the hits and announcing every runner. All award winners will be announced and recognized for their accomplishments. Aid stations will be on the course to provide water and to assist should you have any concerns during your run. Come join us for the hottest Half Marathon this October! Our primary focus is to make your race fun, safe and exciting. *Youth-based pricing for the 5k & Quarter Marathon 12 & Under are only $15! *Participants will receive a $20 refund if they refer 5 others. *Join as a group and receive special group discounts. The larger your group gets the larger your groups discount gets. Race Distances offered: Kids Dash - This event if for our little Yeti's and is typically about a 20 yard dash. Designed for kids 10 and under. This is not timed and includes a tee shirt, race medal, and exclusive Kids Dash recognition pin. Your little Yeti will get to experience what races are all about as we focus all the attention on them and get the crowd involved in cheering them on. Our crew will be present with our professional race camera capturing all the fun so that you can share the memory of this awesome experience with friends and family. 1 Mile - Our 1 mile race is designed for all ages and experience levels. This event is not chipped timed and includes a tee shirt and race medal. 5K - Our 5K race will take you 3.11 miles through the course. This event is chip timed and features 1st overall trophy's for male and female finishers, special recognition pins for 1st place male and female master's category as well as our standard age group awards. 1/4 Marathon - Our Quarter Marathon race will take you 6.55 miles through the course. This event is chip timed and features 1st overall Bigfoot trophy's for male and female finishers, special recognition pins for 1st place male and female master's category as well as our standard age group awards. Half Marathon - Our Half Marathon race will take you 13.1 miles through the course. This event is chip timed and features 1st overall Bigfoot trophy's for male a
Course & Travel Notes
Early October in San Marcos brings mild fall conditions with typical highs around 82°F and lows near 58°F, so plan for layers you can shed as the morning warms up; rain occurs on about 19% of days, so pack a light rain jacket just in case. The race starts at 6:55 AM, just before sunrise at 7:26 AM, so bring a headlamp or reflective gear for the pre-dawn start. The venue sits at 682 feet elevation, which is relatively modest. Randolph Air Force Base (RND) is the nearest airport, located 26.8 miles from the race venue in San Marcos.
⛰️ 682 ft elevation☀️ Typically 82°F / 58°F · 19% chance of rain✈️ Randolph Air Force Base (RND) — 26.8 mi
Hotels Near This Race
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Day of the Dead Half Marathon – Austin 2026 — San Marcos, TX
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Race Travel Insurance
Don't forget travel insurance for October 3.
You've trained for months and booked a trip to San Marcos, TX.
A pre-race injury, a delayed flight, or a family emergency can derail the whole thing.
Travel insurance can help cover your race entry fee, hotel, and flights if you can't make it,
and may cover medical costs if something goes wrong on the course. Plans typically only run
5-7% of your total trip cost — and running events are covered under standard plans with no
additional coverage needed.
Trip cancellation up to 100% of prepaid costs
Running events covered under standard plans — no add-ons needed
Trip interruption up to 150% of non-refundable costs
When is Day of the Dead Half Marathon – Austin 2026 — San Marcos, TX?
Day of the Dead Half Marathon – Austin 2026 — San Marcos, TX takes place on October 3, 2026. The race is held in San Marcos, Texas.
Where is Day of the Dead Half Marathon – Austin 2026 — San Marcos, TX held?
Day of the Dead Half Marathon – Austin 2026 — San Marcos, TX is held at Tanger Outlets in San Marcos, Texas.
Where can I find hotels near Day of the Dead Half Marathon – Austin 2026 — San Marcos, TX?
RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in San Marcos. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.
