Event Overview
Runners and walkers of all ages and skill levels are invited to enjoy a fun, fast and beautiful course in Salem, Oregon. After the race, be sure to stay and enjoy music and awards, cheer on our kids race runners and enjoy award-winning Oregon wines and craft beer!
Date: Sunday September 13, 2026
Location: Riverfront Park - Salem, OR
Event Start Times
- 8:00 am: Half Marathon
- 8:05 am: 10K
- 8:10 am: 5K
- 10:30 am: Kids Run (untimed kids 0.4 mile run or walk)
What's Included
- Official Race Shirt: Every participant receives an official shirt.
- Special Finisher Medal: All finishers will receive a medal.
- Finisher Party: Enjoy live music and award-winning Oregon beer, wine & cider.
- Awards: Overall and age group awards for top finishers.
Key Event Details
- Course Restrictions: Dogs and strollers are not allowed on the course.
- Event End Time: All Race Courses end at 12:30 PM.
- Half Marathon Pace: Complete the event in under 4 hours and 30 minutes (roughly 20:35 pace per mile).
- Kids Race: Little ones can participate in the untimed kids race and receive a bib, shirt, and medal.
Packet Pickup
- Date: Friday (9/11/26) from 4-8 pm.
- Location: Willamette Valley Vineyards, 8800 Enchanted Way SE Turner, OR 97392.
- Participants 21+: Enjoy a complimentary seasonal flight during packet pickup.
- Saturday (9/12/25): Packet pickup from 1-5 pm at Gallagher Fitness Resources, 135 Commercial St NE, Salem, OR 97301.
Pre-Race Offerings
- Morning Snacks: Coffee, water, and bananas for participants.
- Gear Check: Available at the registration booth.
Post-Race
- Complimentary Pour: Enjoy a 5-ounce pour from Willamette Valley Vineyards or a 12 oz glass of craft beer or cider.
- Food Trucks: Variety of food offerings from local food trucks for purchase.
- Awards Ceremony: Recognizing overall and age group finishers.
Parking
- Parking Recommendation: Use Street Parking in Downtown Salem and parking garages.
- Plan Ahead: Arrive early as the Riverfront Park Carousel Parking lot fills quickly.
- Day-of Packet Pickup: Ends at 7:50 am.
Awards
1st, 2nd, and 3rd place awards will be given for the overall winners, master's winners (age 40+) and the following age groups:
- 19 and Under
- 20 - 29
- 30-39
- 40-49
- 50-59
- 60-69
- 70+
Team Competition
Grab your friends and running buddies and be sure to register as part of a team/group during registration! Along with your individual race results, we will tabulate the race results for teams and will have awards for the top male and female teams for all three race distances!
Community Connections
Are you a part of or lead a local/community Run Club? We would love to get connected with you! Please email us or send us a direct message on social media telling us about your group to see about special offers and opportunities!
Volunteer Opportunities
Our event doesn’t happen without the support of the incredible community. If you’re unable to participate in the Cherry City Half Marathon and still want to be a part of race day, please consider volunteering.
Aid Station Locations on Course
Please find our various aid stations as per the specific distances:
Half Marathon Aid Stations
| Location |
Water |
Electrolyte Drink |
Energy Chews/Gels |
Portable Toilets |
| Mile 1 |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
No |
| Mile 2.2 |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
No |
| Mile 4.1 |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
Yes |
| Mile 5.3 |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
| Mile 7 |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
| Mile 11 |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
| Mile 12.1 |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
10K Aid Stations
| Location |
Water |
Electrolyte Drink |
Energy Chews/Gels |
Portable Toilets |
| Mile 0.9 |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
Yes |
| Mile 2.2 |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
| Mile 4.1 |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
Yes |
| Mile 5.4 |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
|