Road Closures Expected Throughout Downtown Nashville Saturday Morning as Runners from 36 States and Five Countries Take to the Streets
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (Oct. 22, 2026) – The Nashville Half Marathon & 5K returns to downtown Nashville this Saturday, Oct. 24, welcoming an expected 3,800 participants from 36 states and five countries for a morning of running, music and community pride. The half marathon and 5K both begin at 7 a.m., with the finish-line festival at First Horizon Park running from 7 a.m. to noon.
The popular 5K has officially sold out, reaching its capacity of 750 participants. Women account for 51% of registered runners, with ages 30–39 representing the largest participant demographic, followed by ages 25–29.
“We’re proud to welcome runners from across the country and around the world to experience Nashville at its best,” said Malain McCormick, race director of the Nashville Half Marathon & 5K. “With 3,800 participants expected, a sold-out 5K and tremendous support for our charity partners, this year’s event is a celebration of everything that makes Nashville’s running community so special.”
Course highlights include Downtown Nashville, the Nissan Stadium area, The Gulch, Music Row, Demonbreun Street and Germantown area. Runners, residents and downtown visitors should plan ahead, as temporary road closures and parking restrictions will be in place along the racecourse Saturday morning. Race activity is expected to conclude by approximately 11:30 a.m.
Beyond the finish line, the event is making an impact in the community. The American Cancer Society, the event’s national charity partner, has raised more than $35,000 through its involvement with the race. Local charity partners include Move Music City, Achilles International and the T.J. Martell Foundation. Through its partnership with Move Music City, the event has donated race entries to a school running group, helping introduce young runners to the excitement of race day.
Road Closures & Traffic Impact to Expect
Temporary road closures and parking restrictions will affect portions of downtown Nashville, including streets near First Horizon Park, Nissan Stadium, Music Row and Demonbreun Street.
The racecourse also passes through The Gulch and Germantown. Road closure times vary by street, with race activity expected to conclude by approximately 11:30 a.m.
Motorists are encouraged to plan alternate routes and allow additional travel time. Suggested alternatives include Broadway, Church Street, Jefferson Street and 12th Avenue South, depending on the destination.
Complete road closure information, including affected streets and estimated closure times, is available at: Road Closure Information.
Helpful Race Resources:
• Review the comprehensive Run Nash Event Information page for race details, parking, FAQ’s and more.
• Map out your route with the official Half Marathon Course Map or the 5K Course Map.
• Give back to the community by browsing open Volunteer Opportunities.
Charity Partners Supporting the Community
The American Cancer Society is the national charity partner of the Nashville Half Marathon & 5K, with more than $35,000 raised through the event. Its DetermiNation Endurance Series brings athletes together to raise funds and awareness in the fight against cancer. For more information, visit cancer.org.
Local charity partners include Move Music City, Achilles International and the T.J. Martell Foundation, supporting community engagement, inclusive athletic opportunities and charitable causes.
About Run Nash
Run Nash is a Nashville based event production company that focuses on creating professionally managed experiences for participants of all levels. Run Nash, formerly I Run For The Party and What Do You Run For, is the largest locally owned race organization and has been producing events for over 16 years. Our ambition is to create fun events for all levels of runners and walkers that encourage healthy living, involve the whole family, and support local charities. Learn more at www.runnash.com.
