Run Madtown
Run Madtown Race Description
Run Madtown isn’t just a race—it’s Madison’s most colorful, community-driven running celebration, complete with a flock of flamingo fun! Every spring, our streets fill with thousands of runners, walkers, and cheer squads for a weekend that’s equal parts athletic challenge and joyful parade. From the lively Twilight 5K to the scenic Half Marathon and the adorable Kids Run, there’s an event for every pace, every age, and every style (yes, even feathered costumes).
We pride ourselves on being fabulously inclusive—welcoming elite athletes, first-timers, stroller-pushers, tutu-wearers, and everyone in between. Whether you’re chasing a PR or just strutting your stuff like a flamingo in the spotlight, you’ll find yourself cheered on by Madison’s warm, vibrant community.
Run Madtown has grown by leaps, bounds, and flamboyant steps over the past three years—participant numbers have more than doubled. Our partners don’t just get a banner on race day; they join the flock, becoming part of an event that blends visibility, brand engagement, and community goodwill.
From the pink-feathered photo ops to the lakefront views, Run Madtown is where Madison gathers to run, walk, cheer, and connect—creating memories that last long after the last flamingo crosses the finish line. Join us May 23rd - 24th for a flamazing time!
Add to my calendar
-
Run Madtown Where & When
- Location: 715 State Street, Madison, WI 53703
- Race Dates: 05/23 - 05/24/2026
-
Categories:
- Twilight 5K
- 10K
- Half Marathon
- Mad for Madtown (5K & 10K)
- Mad for Madtown (5K & Half Marathon)
The course itself was nice! There seemed to be something for everyone, from cityscapes to a more rural feel, you truly got the best of both worlds. The course has its challenging inclines at times as well! The one issue I had was the availability of water/refreshment afterwards. I had a difficult time finding the water station after the run. I know I wasn't the only one as I went to where water was being handed out for finishers and was denied another water bottle. Another runner asked right after me and was also denied. I eventually found the gallon jugs of water but perhaps some signage of some type would be nice. Also, having them on ice, or at least some, would be nice as well. I'll be back next year!
Joseph F.
2/2 found this review helpful.
I loved the entire event from the luscious drag queen at the start line to the friggin' amazing mac & cheeze pizza and Ian's! Madison is a beautiful city and the people are welcoming, diverse and non-judgmental. I'll be back in '26!
has attended 1 times
This was a beautiful course. I ran this race last year and loved it just as much. With all my heart I want to run it next year in 2025. My daughter and her husband live in Madison and it has been a fun weekend to spend with them. This year I realized that a Drag Queen was the announcer for the event. I will not be signing up next year on account of this which grieves my heart. Drag Queens are adult entertainment which makes this event NOT family friendly. Would you consider a veteran being the announcer in future years being that the race occurs on Memorial Day weekend? I will return to running this race in the future if the Drag Queen no longer announces for the race.
has attended 2 times
The Run Madtown race weekend is the most fun in town, no doubt about it. The organizers strike a perfect balance between a loose and lively atmosphere on the one hand and professionalism and organization on the other. It has the amenities, thoughtfulness, and structure of a much larger race while keeping the personality and personalized experience of a much smaller one. I love the Mad for Madtown challenge as a way to loosen up and have a great time with friends and dogs on the 5k before the half the next day. The medals in recent years have also made the experience even more worthwhile, though the environment is still the reason I keep coming back. As long as I'm in town, I'll never miss this race!
has attended 3 times
I moved to Madison a year ago to start my PhD and it took me a minute to get my bearings and finally was able to sign up for a race. This was the one I landed on and it was the perfect first race here in town. The course was awesome (biased as I go to UW so I love the campus already!) but running at "twilight" was so cool, it was a beautiful weather day and at sunset it was sublime. The course has a few big hills and lots of straight aways so that could be a downside to some but I enjoyed it overall. Will definitely be running again next year.
has attended 1 times
Thank you for putting on such a great run! Everything was outstanding. Even the rainy weather; couldn't sog down my joy running with my daughters. Was their, and my first time running a half marathon.
has attended 1 times
Our race day was rainy, but the course was beautiful and 75% under a tree line! Sufficient water stations and bathrooms with lots of cheer leaders along the way! Post race festivities were a bit of a let down, but the weather was definitely a factor. Would definitely run again.
has attended 1 times
I enjoyed the Madtown half, even if I got rained on. I was a pacer and enjoyed experiencing it that way.
Loved the course layout through Madison’s landmarks with varied terrain! Well organized with tons of communication and well marked. Great atmosphere and just the right number of participants. Wish I could run it again next year but the event date conflicts with other plans. Definitely recommend it!
has attended 1 times
A fun time. Lots of energy. Well organized.
has attended 2 times
Gmail
Yahoo
Outlook
Email