The Day of the Dead Half Marathon in Galveston is a running event held October 10, 2026, at Stewart Beach with options ranging from a 20-yard fun distance to a full half marathon. Participants can choose the 1-mile, 5-mile, or half-marathon distances, with races beginning at 6:55 AM. Entry fees range from $15 to $80 depending on distance and registration timing. If you're traveling to Galveston for this event, note that a virtual participation option is available for those who prefer to run remotely. The beach venue offers a coastal setting for race day, and early morning start times mean you'll want accommodation close enough for a convenient pre-race logistics setup.
From the Race Organizer
Location CONFIRMED: Stewart Beach Get ready for the Day of the Dead Half Marathon: Galveston Edition! Starting at 7:00 a.m., this festive 13.1-mile race begins at Stewart Beach and takes you on a scenic journey through Galveston, blending coastal charm with the vibrant spirit of Day of the Dead. As the morning sun rises over the island, you'll start your adventure near the shoreline before following a paved course through the surrounding streets of Galveston. Along the way, you'll experience the island's unique character, refreshing coastal air, and a course designed to challenge and inspire runners of all levels. Aid stations throughout the route provide hydration and encouragement to keep you fueled from start to finish. Whether you're aiming for a new personal best or enjoying the festive atmosphere, you'll be surrounded by the energy of fellow runners every step of the way. As you make your way back toward the finish, the excitement builds with cheering spectators welcoming you across the finish line. Celebrate your accomplishment at the post-race rally, where Day of the Dead festivities, music, and delicious refreshments create the perfect ending to an unforgettable race. The Day of the Dead Half Marathon is a celebration of life, remembrance, and community set against the backdrop of beautiful Galveston Island. Lace up your running shoes and join us for a memorable race filled with festive traditions, island charm, and an experience you'll never forget. 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 and female finishers, special recognition pins for 1st place male and female master's category as well as our standard age group awards. Standard Age Group Awards for 5K, Quarter Marathon and Half Marathon 1st overall M
Course & Travel Notes
The Day of the Dead Half Marathon in Galveston starts at 6:55 AM, just before sunrise at 7:17 AM, so you'll begin your race in near-darkness. October weather in Galveston typically brings highs around 81°F and lows near 68°F, with occasional rainy days, so pack layers and consider rain gear. The venue sits at just 13 feet of elevation, offering a flat course through this coastal Texas city. Scholes International At Galveston Airport is conveniently located 6.1 miles from the race start.
⛰️ 13 ft elevation☀️ Typically 81°F / 68°F✈️ Scholes International At Galveston Airport (GLS) — 6.1 mi
Hotels Near This Race
Find accommodation close to the start line in Galveston, TX. Sorted by distance from the race venue. Book early — race weekend hotels fill fast.
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Day of the Dead Half Marathon – Galveston 2026 — Galveston, TX
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Race Travel Insurance
Don't forget travel insurance for October 10.
You've trained for months and booked a trip to Galveston, 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 – Galveston 2026 — Galveston, TX?
Day of the Dead Half Marathon – Galveston 2026 — Galveston, TX takes place on October 10, 2026. The race is held in Galveston, Texas.
Where is Day of the Dead Half Marathon – Galveston 2026 — Galveston, TX held?
Day of the Dead Half Marathon – Galveston 2026 — Galveston, TX is held at Stewart Beach in Galveston, Texas.
Where can I find hotels near Day of the Dead Half Marathon – Galveston 2026 — Galveston, TX?
RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in Galveston. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.
