10 Winter Marathons to Run in 2015-2016

Written by
Taylor Danser
Cooler temps and the opportunity to take some time off work make winter primetime for running a marathon. Take a look at some of these top choices for logging your next 26.2 miles. Don't see one close to home? Search for more races at active.com/running. Find training plans.
The Black Goose Marathon/Half Marathon/5K
Nov. 1, 2015, in Seekonk, Massachusetts
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This year's inaugural event features a beautiful run through the countryside. Participants will go through some chilly weather in four towns and two states.
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Madison Marathon & Half Marathon
Nov. 8, 2015, in Madison, Wisconsin
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The weekend kicks off with the Madison Marathon Expo before runners traverse a course on Sunday morning that includes the city's major lakes and beautiful downtown. This Boston Marathon qualifier begins and ends at Madison's Capitol Square, and proceeds of the race will be donated to Badger Honor Flight and My Team Triumph - Wisconsin.
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NYCRUNS Brooklyn Marathon
Nov. 15, 2015, in Brooklyn, New York
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Now in its fifth year, this race has sold out annually, attracting runners from across the world. This Boston-qualifying marathon will comprise six full loops and three lower loops of Prospect Park.
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MetroPCS Dallas Marathon
Dec. 13, 2015, in Dallas
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Previously known as the Dallas White Rock Marathon for the lake it passes, this marathon starts and ends in downtown Dallas, highlighting the best areas of the city. The event has donated more than $3.75 million to Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children since 1997.
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2016 Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend Presented by Cigna
Jan. 6 - 10, 2016, in Orlando, Florida
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This course takes you through all four Walt Disney World theme parks, starting at Epcot, continuing on to the Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom and Hollywood Studios before returning to Epcot for the finish. Runners need to be at least 18 years old and maintain at least a 16-minute-per-mile pace to participate in this marathon. Different charitable organizations organize runs for this event. Be sure to search for them on ACTIVE.com.
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Louisiana Marathon 2016
Jan. 15 - 17, 2016, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana
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The Louisiana Marathon was established in 2012 to be a major racing event on the winter road racing calendar, as well as a running festival celebrating the passion for the sport and Louisiana culture. The marathon course features a fast, flat, festive path from downtown and along the river through the University Lakes, the Louisiana State University campus and in historic river town neighborhoods.
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Bermuda Marathon Weekend & Bermuda Triangle Challenge
Jan. 15 - 17, 2016 in Pembroke, Bermuda
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The 41st Bermuda Marathon Weekend consists of three races in three days, with the marathon on Sunday, Jan. 17. 10K and half marathon distances are also available for those not ready for a full 26.2-mile experience. Earn bragging rights with the Bermuda Triangle Challenge, where you will complete all three races over the weekend. Here's your chance to escape a harsh winter for a run in the sun.
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2016 Tri-City Medical Center Carlsbad Marathon & Half Marathon
Jan. 17, 2016, in Carlsbad, California
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This coastal marathon offers participants breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. The course includes historic Highway 101/Carlsbad Boulevard and has a reputation for endless sunshine and near-perfect running weather. The Carlsbad Marathon works with nearly two dozen local charities to help raise funds and awareness for their organizations.
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Town of Celebration Marathon & Half Marathon
Jan. 31, 2016, in Celebration, Florida
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Run through one of America's prettiest neighborhoods on what may be the flattest course you will ever run. The course is certified with USATF, so it is a Boston qualifier. Forget bagels and bananas, because this post race party features delicious food and beverages from local restaurants. There's a goal to raise a minimum of $32,000 to fund scholarships for high school seniors across Osceola County. If that's not enough to convince you, the average high for Celebration in January is 71 degrees Fahrenheit, and the average low is 48: perfect running weather.
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Lost Dutchman Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K, 8K Trail
Feb. 14, 2016, in Apache Junction, Arizona
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This marathon is a scenic, rolling, point-to-point USATF-certified course that can be used as a qualifier for the Boston Marathon. The elevation rises and falls gradually numerous times throughout the course, offering a decent challenge for even experienced runners. Past runners of the Lost Dutchman rave about friendly volunteers, a well-organized event and fantastic scenery.
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