The annual race is back with themed gear for all participants to sport on race day and beyond.

KEY WEST, Fla. — The Key West Half Marathon & Runfest, rated a top 10 half marathon by USA Today, is back Jan. 17-18, 2026. The event has unveiled new race day shirts and medals that showcase the spirit and culture of the local community that thousands get to experience at the Key West Half Marathon & Runfest. Registration is now open for all events.

This year’s medals vary in design based on the distance completed. 5K participants will be awarded a medal in the shape of a dolphin and 8K finishers will sport a seahorse-shaped medal. The 10K and half marathon medals will include an additional twist this year. Those who complete the 10K will receive a medal shaped as sea turtle and the half marathon medals will resemble a manatee, with both medals also featuring a bottle opener. Participants who take on the Big Pecker Challenge, meaning they completed the 5K, 10K and half marathon in one race weekend, will receive a medal featuring the iconic wild rooster, coined as “peckers” by Key West locals.

Participants will also receive the newly designed race shirts. The 2026 shirts feature an ocean-centric design with various marine life and a map of the Florida Keys. This year’s race shirts were designed by Key West native artist, Abigail White.

“Each year, we put a lot of our focus into the medals and race shirts. Not only are these mementos meant to remind participants of their accomplishments, but also the one-of-a-kind Key West community,” said Barbara Wright, Race Director of the Key West Half Marathon & Runfest. “By working with local artist Abigail White, we were able to perfectly capture the scenic sights of Key West, as well as the fun atmosphere of the Keys that race weekend highlights each year.”

Among its keystone 13.1-mile half marathon and 3.1-mile 5K races, the Runfest will also feature an 8K, 10K, beer mile and a rum-tasting tour. Those looking to take on extra miles and elevate their experience can enter the Big Pecker or Lil’ Pecker Challenge, combining multiple distances on multiple days.

The half marathon, 10K and 5K routes take participants along the Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail with views of the ocean throughout. The 8K course will weave participants through historical Old Town Key West. The Papa’s Pilar Rum Stroll takes participants across eight popular Old Town Key West locations. At each location, participants will stop and enjoy a Papa’s Pilar Rum Drink before venturing onto the next location. The Beach N’ Beer Mile features a four-loop course run at the southernmost beach in the United States.

The weekend will wrap up with its signature after-party that features live entertainment, free refreshments, a raffle and much more.

For more information about the Key West Half Marathon, please visit www.keywesthalfmarathon.com, and follow them on Facebook and Instagram.

ABOUT KEY WEST HALF MARATHON & RUNFEST

The Key West Half Marathon is renowned for its beautiful course, which winds through historic landmarks, lively streets and Key West’s waterfront. With its vibrant atmosphere, enthusiastic spectators and well-organized event, the race attracts participants of all levels from all 50 States and 37 countries on average. Participants can expect a fun race experience, complete with top-notch amenities, unique race shirts and finisher medals, entertainment on the course, professional timing and a festive post-race celebration including food, beverages and concerts.

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