Registration Opens for 2026 Great American River Run

REGISTRATION FOR THE 2026 GREAT AMERICAN RIVER RUN IN DOWNTOWN MEMPHIS OPENS ON THURSDAY OCTOBER 16, 2025.

 

A Memphis Memorial Day Weekend Tradition!

 

MEMPHIS, TN, October 14, 2025 – The Great American River Run, one of the signature events of the Memphis in May International Festival, will return to Downtown Memphis on Saturday, May 23, 2026. Registration for the 2026 Great American River Run will open on Thursday, October 16, 2025. 

 

To be held Memorial Day Weekend, the Great American River Run race has quickly become a Memorial Day Weekend tradition and features a 5K, 10K, and half-marathon, offering a race for runners and families at every skill level. 2026 will be the 11th anniversary of the run which began in 2015. 

 

Organizers are offering deep discounts on early registrations for a limited time, the 5K is just $45*, the 10K is $50* and the half marathon is only $65* for a limited time only. In honor of the race being held on Memorial Day weekend, an additional discount is offered to members of the military. Runners are encouraged to act fast to take advantage of the amazing price breaks.

 

The course winds through some of Memphis’s most iconic landmarks, and with the continued redevelopment of downtown Memphis and the riverfront, there’s never been a better time to run Memphis! The race includes cash prizes, an exciting firework start, the “King and Queen of the Hill,” which offers an additional $500 prize to the fastest male and female runners to crest the A.W. Willis bridge, and scenic views of beautiful downtown Memphis and the mighty Mississippi River. 

 

“Memphis is a city built on energy and rhythm, and the Great American River Run captures that spirit perfectly,” said Mack Weaver President and CEO of Memphis in May International Festival. “Each year, the Great American River Run brings a surge of visitors into Downtown Memphis, generating measurable economic impact while celebrating health, fitness, and the unique character of our city. It’s become a cornerstone of the Memorial Day weekend experience in the Mid-South.” 

 

Runners will be greeted at the finish line with a lively post-race party featuring local music, food, and beverages—a true Memphis-style celebration. Participants will also receive commemorative medals, race shirts, and exclusive swag as part of their registration. 

 

To learn more and to complete your REGISTRATION, visit the link: Https://Raceroster.Com/Events/2026/109636/The-Great-American-River-Run

*Additional service charges will apply

 

Memphis in May International Festival is a 501(c)(3) organization founded in 1977 with a mission to promote and celebrate Memphis culture, foster economic growth, and enhance international awareness through education. The organization fulfills this mission through a year-round celebration featuring educational programs, cultural exchange, and world-class events such as the World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest (est. 1978) and the Great American River Run (est. 2015).

 

For nearly five decades, Memphis in May has showcased the best of Memphis to the world—and the world to Memphis. Recognized globally for excellence, the festival has earned more than 250 prestigious Pinnacle Awards from the International Festivals and Events Association and was named one of Travel + Leisure’s “Festivals Worth Traveling For.”