How to register for the Vancouver Marathon?

The Vancouver Marathon — one of North America’s most scenic races. Set in one of the world’s most breathtaking regions, the Vancouver Marathon is a hidden gem straight from Canada’s west coast. Usually held in early May, the event attracts over 25,000 runners across its weekend of races. Around 5,000 of them tackle the full marathon, whose popularity continues to soar. Before lining up for this spectacular event, make sure you secure your bib early — spots sell out fast!

✓ How to register for the Vancouver Marathon and take part in one of North America’s most spectacular marathons?

| First Come, First Served (no lottery)

Each spring, thousands of runners from around the globe gather in Vancouver to take part in one of Canada’s most iconic running events. Since its creation in 1972, the event has offered several race formats — marathon, half marathon, and relay — with over 25,000 participants in total each year. Unlike many major marathons — particularly the World Marathon Majors such as London, New York, Berlin, Chicago, Boston, Tokyo, or Sydney — the Vancouver Marathon does not operate a lottery system. Registration works on a first-come, first-served basis. Bibs go on sale several months before race day and can sell out early, so it’s best to sign up as soon as possible to secure your spot and get the lowest available price.

| Run for a cause with the RUN4HOPE charity program

The Vancouver Marathon also offers runners the chance to make their miles matter through its RUN4HOPE charity program. This initiative allows participants to support one of the event’s partner charities while earning a guaranteed marathon entry. To take part, runners commit to raising a minimum fundraising target set by their chosen organization. Once that target is reached, their registration is confirmed. In 2025, the program raised over $370,000 CAD for local and international charities. Charity entries are limited but offer a great alternative once general registration has closed — and a meaningful way to combine fitness and philanthropy.

| Discover, travel, and run — with official tour packages

Famous for its breathtaking scenery, the Vancouver Marathon route starts at Queen Elizabeth Park, passes through UBC, Point Grey, and Kitsilano Beach, crosses the Burrard Bridge, and follows the Stanley Park Seawall with sweeping ocean and mountain views before finishing downtown amid cheering crowds. For runners looking to combine sport and sightseeing, several travel agencies offer all-inclusive packages that handle flights, accommodation, bib registration, and guided tours. While these packages often cost more than booking independently, they take care of every logistical detail and guarantee your entry. Be sure to check each agency’s cancellation and refund policies before booking.

| Run the Vancouver Marathon as a team or relay

Like many international marathons, Vancouver offers options for team and relay entries. Group registrations simplify the administrative process — from invoicing to bib pickup. The marathon relay divides the course into four legs: 12 km, 12 km, 5 km, and 13 km. Team rankings are based on cumulative time. The relay format makes it a perfect team-building opportunity for corporate groups, charity teams, friends, and families alike — all sharing the joy of one of the world’s most scenic marathon routes. Forbes and CNN have both ranked the Vancouver Marathon among the top 10 destination marathons worldwide.

| Elite runners at the Vancouver Marathon

While the Vancouver course isn’t known as one of the fastest, it still attracts talented international athletes who post impressive times. The current men’s course record is 2:14:32, set by Dominic Arce in 2025. The women’s record belongs to Canadian runner Dayna Pidhoresky, who ran 2:34:27. Elite athletes wishing to compete must contact the organizers directly and submit proof of qualifying performances for review.

If you’re looking to experience one of North America’s most beautiful marathon destinations, the Vancouver Marathon delivers everything — ocean views, mountain backdrops, and a vibrant Canadian atmosphere. Registration is straightforward but fills up quickly, so plan ahead to make sure you don’t miss your chance to run this truly unforgettable race.

✓ Find all the details on how to register for the Vancouver Marathon

Alanis DUC
Journaliste