Kids’ Marathon hosted by Mid-State Health & Bristol Rotary Club set for Oct. 3

LACONIA — Mid-State Health, in proud partnership with the Bristol Rotary Club and the New Hampshire Marathon, is thrilled for the 2026 Kids’ Marathon. This free event, open to children in grades K through 8, will take place alongside the New Hampshire Marathon this October. The Kids’ Marathon is all about building healthy habits, staying active, and having fun every step of the way.

Here’s how it works: Kids in grades K through 8 can register to participate and begin their marathon journey before race day. Each participant is encouraged to complete 25.2 miles of running, walking, or other physical activity leading up to the event. Then, on race day, they’ll gather in Bristol to complete the final mile, crossing the finish line as full marathoners alongside their peers in an exciting and supportive environment.

Race day is set for Saturday, Oct. 3, during the New Hampshire Marathon festivities. Check-in begins at 8 a.m. at Kelley Park in Bristol, with the Kids’ Marathon kicking off just after 9 a.m. Participants will be transported to the start line near the Mill Stream Parking Area along the Multi-Use Path, just across from Old Mill Properties. Parents and guardians are encouraged to stay and cheer; there’s nothing better than seeing these young runners cross the finish line back at Kelley Park.

The celebration doesn’t stop there. Immediately following the race, kids will be recognized for their incredible accomplishment. Completing a marathon, one mile at a time, is no small feat, and every participant deserves to be celebrated for their dedication and hard work.

Each child who brings a completed training log on race day will receive a special marathon medal. To register and download a training log, visit nhmarathon.com or stop by the Tapply-Thompson Community Center to pick up a registration packet. For questions, contact the NH Marathon team at race@nhmarathon.com or call 603-744-2713.

Mid-State Health is proud to support young runners as they work toward their goals and discover the joy of staying active. Staff will be onsite volunteering and cheering participants on every step of the way. 

For more information, visit midstatehealth.org.