Every fall, tens of thousands of runners take over Montreal's streets. The Marathon Beneva de Montréal is the city's biggest running event — and it isn't just for elite athletes. Whether you want to run or simply cheer, it's a weekend that brings neighbourhoods together.
The date. The 2026 edition runs over three days, from October 9 to 11, 2026, with the full marathon (42.2 km) taking place on Sunday, October 11. All the details are on the Marathon's official site.
A distance for everyone. People often assume a marathon means 42 km. In fact, the event offers several distances: the marathon (42.2 km), the half-marathon (21 km), the 10 km, the 5 km, the 1 km, and "The Mile." A newcomer just starting out can aim for the 5 km or 10 km with no pressure — what matters is taking part. Registration is online, individually or as a group, through the official site.
Cheering is free. You don't need to run to be part of the party. The course crosses several neighbourhoods, and lining the sidewalk to applaud the runners is a tradition in itself. It's free, joyful, and a lovely way to discover corners of the city you may not know yet.
Good to know for newcomers. Joining a neighbourhood running club is one of the easiest ways to make friends in Montreal — many welcome beginners and train specifically toward this event. Whether you're running your first 5 km or cheering from the sidewalk, the marathon is a friendly doorway into the city's sporting life.
