Organisers of the Reggae Marathon have officially announced the return of the heavily anticipated sporting event, set to take place on December 6, 2026, for a second consecutive year in the island’s capital, Kingston.

This marks the event’s 26th staging, with registration having opened on April 23, 2026. As a notable sport and tourism event on the local race calendar, the event’s 2025 Kingston debut saw over 1,700 registered runners, including participants from the United States, Canada, France, Dubai, Japan, the UK, and far-flung countries such as Uzbekistan, Russia, and Estonia.

Jamdammers President Tricia Martin shared, “We are excited to welcome the Reggae Marathon back to Kingston for a second consecutive year, building on the incredible energy and momentum we experienced in 2025. The event has a rich history and strong roots across Jamaica. The inaugural Kingston staging provided a vibrant and dynamic backdrop for the race, and the response from both local and international runners has been overwhelmingly positive. For this 26th staging, we are focused on continuing to elevate the experience, showcasing the very best of Jamaica’s culture, music, and hospitality, while delivering an even more memorable event this December.”

The 10K, 5K, and half-marathon route, which meets international course standards and is IAAF- and AIMS-certified, invites runners from around the world to experience the rhythm and energy of Kingston with the race starting at the iconic Jamaica Waterfront, and notable landmarks such as the Supreme Court, the Artwalk on Water Lane, and the National Art Gallery along the way. Combining culture and wellness with its signature reggae music playing throughout and cooling stations on spot.

The Reggae Marathon’s 26th staging anticipates an even bigger turnout than prior years.

“Last year’s move to Kingston brought a completely different energy to the race. Running through the city, surrounded by music, culture, and cheering supporters, made it such a unique experience. It felt like more than just a race; it was a celebration. I’m definitely looking forward to being back this year and experiencing it all over again, even bigger and better,” said Rick Case, repeat participant.

Participants can expect a return of the ‘Finish Line Bash’ at the Waterfront on December 6 from 7:00 am-10:00 am and the Pasta Party on December 5 from 4:00 pm- 8:00 pm, traditional events they have come to know and love, with a twist.

This year, the event will be located at a new home in Devon House, the historic location in Kingston. Devon House will also be the designated venue for on-site registration and Packet collection from December 5-6 2026. Participants may also register online at www.reggaemarathon.com from now till December 3.

Love Island Season 7’s Elan Bibas (left) and Bryan Arenales pose proudly with their symbolic medals after completing the half-marathon route at the 2025 Reggae Marathon.

Rick Case (right), repeat Reggae Marathon participant, poses alongside friends (from left) Jeffrey Foreman, David Chung, Lisa-Marie Elliott, and Shawn Lawrence for a medal display after completing their various distances at the 2025 Reggae Marathon Half-Marathon-10K-5K.