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Brooklyn Half Marathon 2026: Things to Know

The NYRR (New York Road Runners) Brooklyn Half Marathon is one of the largest half marathons in the United States. This iconic, highly anticipated annual race started in 1981 and had record turnout in recent years. It sold out in 2025, with almost 28,500 runners.

This springtime race is held in May, offering typically good weather and stunning views of New York City. The 13.1-mile course is challenging but still achievable for many athletes, whether they’re training for a full marathon or this is the longest distance they run. 

Of course, preparation and recovery are crucial for all participants, no matter their experience level. Keep scrolling for a rundown of what to know about the Brooklyn Half Marathon 2026, along with local resources, like Stretch*d’s runner-focused assisted stretching and massage services.

Focused female athlete crossing the finish line during an outdoor marathon race.

Brooklyn Half event details

The RBC Brooklyn Half takes place in Brooklyn, New York, in the spring. This year’s race will be held on Saturday, May 16, 2026. The race is a certified half-marathon distance of 13.1 miles (or 21.1 kilometers), starting in Prospect Park and ending on the Coney Island Boardwalk.

It’s got a large field size for a half marathon, with 28,474 finishers in 2025’s race. There’s a high demand for entry, so runners are encouraged to register early.

Course overview

The entire 13.1-mile course of the Brooklyn Half is within the borough. The route is a mix of park paths, city streets, tree-lined roads, and coastal views.

It starts on Washington Avenue near Prospect Park and the Brooklyn Museum, circles around Grand Army Plaza, leads runners through the 526-acre urban park, heads toward Ocean Parkway, and continues on to the finish line on the Coney Island Boardwalk (also known as the Riegelmann Boardwalk).

The terrain of the race is mostly flat, so runners can maintain a good speed for a lot of it. But there are some hills through Prospect Park that can impact pacing at the earlier part of the race.

Brooklyn Half registration and entry

Runners with guaranteed non-complimentary entry into the 2026 RBC Brooklyn Half include:

  • Those who completed six premium-level virtual races in 2025 through Strava
  • Runners who meet the time qualifiers for any certified half-marathon course
  • Runners who register with NYRR Team for Kids or Team for Climate
  • People who canceled their entry for the 2025 race
  • People who volunteered at the 2025 RBC Brooklyn Half Pre-Party
  • NYRR philanthropic members with Miler, 5K, and 10K membership levels
  • Those who register with an international tour operator (ITO)

There’s also an option to enter the lottery-style drawing for non-guaranteed entry to the Brooklyn Half. The entry window was January 6 through 19, 2026, and the drawing was on January 23, 2026. Those who enter will get an email the day of the drawing letting them know whether they’ve been accepted into the race.

Race weekend schedule

The Brooklyn Half Marathon is on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at 7 a.m. Runners are grouped into corrals based on their recorded pace from previous races (which will be on your NYRR account). The race starts in waves to avoid overcrowding, and people within each corral will start together.

Runners can pick up their race packets and bibs at the Brooklyn Half Pre-Party. This is a multi-day event held on the days leading up to the race. Last year’s was at Brooklyn Park, but the 2026 location hasn’t been announced yet.

After crossing the finish line, the RBC Brooklyn Half celebrates with its official After-Party at Maimonides Park at Coney Island.

Brooklyn Half Marathon training and preparation

When training for the Brooklyn Half, it’s important to build up your mileage slowly but consistently. Ideally, you’ll train for months leading up to race day. Lots of racers incorporate tempo runs, hill work, and flat routes into their training schedule. Regular stretching and mobility work can support the distance increases too.

NYRR has lots of tips and training guides on its Runner Resources hub.

Race-day tips

Runners are encouraged to show up early for the RBC Brooklyn Half Marathon to allow plenty of time for warming up, gathering with their corral, and hearing the race announcements.

You’re wise to do some mobility work the morning of the race to help your body warm up and get ready to pound the pavement. This includes dynamic stretching, like hip rotations, alternating calf stretches, leg swings, or walking lunges.

If this is your first half marathon, try to pace yourself, especially during the initial hillier portion. This can help you conserve energy for the final miles.

Post-race recovery

Cooling down after the race is also crucial, even though you may feel completely exhausted. It’s tempting to sit down right away, but walking around or doing other light movement after strenuous exertion can actually be better for muscle recovery. Hydration and nutrition are also key, so make sure to drink plenty of water and eat protein-rich meals.,

You can also consider booking a Stretch*d assisted stretching or stretch massage session for a day or two after the race. Led by trained bodywork professionals, these recovery-focused therapies can help reduce soreness and speed up recovery.

Travel and logistics

If you’re an out-of-towner joining the race, try to book your stay near the starting line or finish area. Many race participants take the Subway or other public transportation to avoid traffic and get around road closures.

The mid-May weather in New York City is usually pretty mild—you can expect it to be roughly 60°F at the start time and get up to the mid-70s in the afternoon. But definitely check the forecast the day before and morning-of to plan for race-day gear.

Spectator and community experience

The whole community can get involved with the Brooklyn Half. There are volunteer opportunities to help before, during, and after the race.

Spectators typically plan to meet in groups at two to three designated spots throughout the course. Aside from the starting and finish lines, popular viewing areas include the Prospect Park loop and all along the Ocean Parkway stretch, particularly the Ditmas Avenue intersection.

Who this race is best for

The RBC Brooklyn Half is a great race for first-time half marathoners and experienced racers alike. This event is accessible, welcoming, energetic, and well-supported by the community. If you qualify for guaranteed entry or are selected through the drawing, it’s absolutely worth giving it a go.

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