Experience the thrill of one of Canada’s premier running festivals in the heart of the nation’s capital! Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend offers something for everyone — from first-time runners to seasoned marathoners — set against the backdrop of Ottawa’s iconic landmarks and a vibrant city atmosphere. With thousands of spectators lining the streets, the energy is electric from start to finish.
Race Distances & Events
Saturday, May 23, 2026
Ottawa 2K – A fun introduction to the race weekend for all ages.
Ottawa 5K – A fast and lively course perfect for beginners and casual runners.
Ottawa 10K presented by Otto’s Ottawa – A challenging city run with excitement at every turn.
Ottawa Kids Marathon (1.2 km) – Inspiring the next generation of runners.
Sunday, May 24, 2026
Ottawa Half Marathon presented by Desjardins (21.1 km) – A scenic route with spectacular city views and enthusiastic spectator support.
Tartan Ottawa International Marathon (42.2 km) – A world-class marathon experience through the heart of Ottawa, complete with a finisher medal that spins for a little extra fun!
Special Challenges
Push your limits with multi-race challenges:
Ottawa 17K Challenge – Combine events for a unique personal milestone.
Ottawa 36.1K Challenge – Test your endurance across multiple races.
Ottawa 59.2K Challenge – Go big with the ultimate weekend running feat!
Why Run Ottawa Race Weekend?
Spectator Support: Thousands line the streets to cheer every runner.
Scenic Courses: Run past Ottawa’s historic landmarks and through lively neighborhoods.
Inclusive & Fun: Events for all ages and abilities, including kids’ races.
Perks & Swag: Finisher medals, optional Green Bib to support a cause, and a 2-week free Runna subscription included with most races.
Registration & Pricing
Distances start at CA$28 for kids and 2K events and go up to CA$355 for the full challenge packages. Payment plans are available to make it easier to join this iconic race weekend.
Join the Celebration
Whether you’re running, racing, or cheering, Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend 2026 is a festival of sport, community, and excitement — a must-experience event for runners and spectators alike.
Races Offered
Kids Marathon
May 23, 2026
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Kids Marathon
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14:00
Ottawa 2K presented by ASICS Runkeeper
May 23, 2026
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2K
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15:00
Ottawa 5K presented by ASICS Runkeeper
May 23, 2026
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5K
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16:00
Ottawa 10K presented by Otto's Ottawa
May 23, 2026
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10K
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18:30
Tartan Ottawa International Marathon
May 24, 2026
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42.2K
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07:00
Ottawa Half Marathon presented by Desjardins
May 24, 2026
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21.1K
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09:00
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for May in Nepean.
thermostatTemperature
8.4° / 19.3°
wb_sunnyFeels like
5.6° / 16.9°
light_mode
Avg sunshine hours
9h 38m
water_drop
Avg rainfall
2.7 mm
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Avg snowfall
—
air
Avg wind speed
10.3 km/h (Light breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
Low
terrain
Course conditions
Firm and slightly soft
sunny
Max UV Index
Moderate (4.2)
humidity_mid
Humidity
69.2%
wb_twilight
Sunrise
05:31
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Sunset
20:26
About Nepean
Learn more about the host city, Nepean.
Nepean is an area of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. Located west of Ottawa's inner core, it was an independent city until amalgamated with the Regional Municipality of Ottawa–Carleton in 2001 to become the new city of Ottawa. However, the name Nepean continues in common usage in reference to the area. The population of Nepean is about 186,593 people.
