The Garmin Marathon Series is returning to Toledo on September 20! Athletes, families, and fans will once again come together for a race weekend that’s about more than just crossing the finish line. With courses showcasing the beauty of the Glass City, an incredible community of supporters, and plenty to explore beyond race day, it’s the perfect opportunity to pair an unforgettable running experience with a memorable getaway. REGISTER HERE
Written by: Olivia Lattimore
Updated on: 7/20/2026
Extend Your Stay in Toledo
Toledo is ready to welcome you before and after the big race. The Glass City offers a refreshingly connected way to spend your valuable family time. Here, everything is closer, so you spend less time getting from place to place and more time truly experiencing. It’s a destination that lets you connect deeply without going far – or breaking the budget.
Enjoy the outdoors in one of our region’s 19 Metroparks, take in the expertly curated collections at the Glass Pavilion at the Toledo Museum of Art or find live music and dining at Hollywood Casino Toledo. Families can spend the day at the Toledo Zoo & Aquarium or spark curiosity with hands-on exhibits at Imagination Station, plus get some fall shopping in at Franklin Park Mall. For those who love history, the National Museum of the Great Lakes offers a fascinating look at our maritime heritage along the Great Lakes.
Race Events
Toledo Race Expo
Head to the Glass City Center for the Garmin race expo in the lead-up to race day. All participants are required to pick up their packets during the two-day expo (September 18 and 19). Race day packet pick-up is not available.
401 Jefferson Ave., Toledo, Ohio 43604
Friday, September 18, 2–7 p.m.
Saturday, September 19, 9 a.m.–7 p.m.
Pre-race Shakeout Run
Run Toledo and Garmin are hosting the perfect way to loosen up, meet fellow runners and get ready for race day. The pre-race group run will feature giveaways, food trucks and other fun ways to kick off your race weekend. All activities will start and end at Glass City Metropark.
Glass City Center, 401 Jefferson Ave., Toledo, Ohio 43604
Friday, September 18, 6 p.m.
Saturday, September 19, 9 a.m.
Finish Line Festival
Close out race day at the Finish Line Festival! Spectators can head to Promenade Park where there will be food trucks and entertainment throughout the day as they wait for their loved ones to cross the finish line. There will be plenty of activations for runners and the community to enjoy during and after the race.
Bittersweet Farms, based near Toledo, is proudly staffing the beer garden at the Finish Line Festival. Their friendly team of volunteers will be serving participants and spectators. Bittersweet Farms is dedicated to positively impacting the lives of individuals with autism through employment, residential, and vocational programs.
Local Events
Artomatic 419 | September 18-20
This community art festival provides more than 100 local creators access to indoor exhibition space in Erie Street Market.
Party in the Park at Maumee Bay Brewing Co. | September 18
Party in the Park is taking the show on the road to Maumee Bay Brewery! Enjoy a double bill of local favorites with Pops Garage opening for Chris Shutters’ Fleetwood Gold
Everyday People 419 Live at Hollywood Casino | September 18
This high energy R&B, soul, and funk band will perform at the H Lounge inside Hollywood Casino.
The Cherry Bombs Live at Hollywood Casino | September 19
This high energy band will perform at the H Lounge inside Hollywood Casino.
Toledo Mud Hens vs. Louisville Bats | September 15-20
The Toledo Mud Hens take on Cincinnati Red’s MLB Affiliate team, Louisville Bats, in this six-game homestand.
Toledo Farmers’ Market | September 19
The Toledo Farmers’ Market occurs every Saturday throughout the year, featuring local produce & handmade products from local artisans in the Toledo Region.
Life in Early Ohio | September 19 – 20
Early settlers into the Ohio country had to know skills and trades just to survive. Stop by Fort Meigs and learn just what it took to make a life on the frontier.
Discover the River Cruise on The Sandpiper | September 19
Enjoy a 2 hour morning cruise on the Maumee River.
Perch Fishing Charter on the Glass City Pearl | September 19
This 8-hour dock-to-dock adventure takes you to prime fishing grounds, where you’ll enjoy up to five hours of action-packed fishing for Lake Erie’s famous yellow perch.
Sunset and City Lights Cruise on The Sandpiper | September 20
Watch as the sun paints the sky in vibrant oranges, pinks, and golds, then cruise back downtown to see Toledo’s sparkling city lights reflecting on the water. Onboard pizza, soft drinks, and water are provided, but guests are welcome to bring their own food and beverages.
Load up on Carbs and Dine at Local Favorites
Carb loading has never been more delicious. Whether it’s pizza at The Stubborn Brother, Mediterranean flavors at Souk Mediterranean Kitchen & Bar or, craft brews and bites at Maumee Bay Brewing Co. pizza and pasta at M Osteria, or a decadent dinner at Regalo inside Hollywood Casino Toledo, Toledo’s restaurants will keep you fueled and ready for race day.
Race weekend in Toledo is more than an athletic event—it’s an invitation to explore, connect, and celebrate. Whether you’re running, cheering, or simply visiting, the Garmin Marathon Series is the perfect reason to discover the energy and hospitality of the Glass City.
Ready to plan your Garmin Marathon weekend? Book Your Stay, find Things to Do or Places to Eat, and get ready for an action-packed trip to the Glass City!
