The Nike Melbourne Marathon Festival 2025 is happening on Sunday, 12 October 2025, bringing more than 40,000 runners and walkers to Melbourne’s streets.
From the full 42.195km marathon to a 3km family walk, the event offers something for everyone.
With a finish inside the MCG, road closures across the city, and thousands of spectators cheering along the course, this guide gives you the details you need to run, watch, or plan your day around the festival.
Contents
- 1 Quick Summary – Melbourne Marathon Festival 2025
- 2 What makes the Melbourne Marathon Festival unique?
- 3 When is the Melbourne Marathon happening in 2025?
- 4 What race categories are offered at the Melbourne Marathon Festival?
- 5 What is the Course Map for the Melbourne Marathon 2025?
- 6 Why is the Melbourne Marathon route popular?
- 7 How can runners register for the Melbourne Marathon 2025?
- 8 What road closures will affect Melbourne on marathon day?
- 9 Where are the best places to watch the Melbourne Marathon?
- 10 Why should you take part in or attend the Melbourne Marathon?
- 11 What tips can help with training and preparation?
- 12 What can you do in Melbourne after the marathon?
- 13 FAQs
Quick Summary – Melbourne Marathon Festival 2025
| Subject | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | Nike Melbourne Marathon Festival 2025 |
| Date | Sunday, 12 October 2025 |
| Distances | Marathon (42.195km), Half Marathon (21.1km), 10km, 5km, 3km Walk, Wheelchair Races |
| Start Line | Batman Avenue, near Rod Laver Arena |
| Finish Line | Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) |
| Registration | Open at melbournemarathon.com.au |
| Road Closures | St Kilda Rd, Flinders St Bridge, Southbank, Fitzroy St |
| Transport | Free CBD trams, extra trains to Richmond & Jolimont |
| Spectators | Free MCG entry to cheer finishers |
What makes the Melbourne Marathon Festival unique?
The Melbourne Marathon is unique because every participant, whether an elite runner or a weekend jogger, gets to finish inside the MCG.
It is more than a sporting event; it is a Melbourne tradition filled with energy, community spirit, and unforgettable views of the city.
When is the Melbourne Marathon happening in 2025?
The Melbourne Marathon Festival takes place on Sunday, 12 October 2025. Events start early in the morning and run through midday.
- Marathon & Wheelchair Marathon – 7:00 am
- 10km Run – 7:30 am
- Half Marathon – 8:00 am
- 5km Run – 11:30 am
- 3km Walk – 12:00 pm
What race categories are offered at the Melbourne Marathon Festival?
There is a distance for everyone, from first-timers to seasoned runners.
- Full Marathon – 42.195km IAAF/AIMS-certified course
- Half Marathon – 21.1km scenic city loop
- 10km Run – popular intermediate distance
- 5km Run – short and family-friendly
- 3km Walk – ideal for kids and beginners
- Wheelchair Races – competitive and inclusive
Every finisher, no matter the event, receives a medal.
What is the Course Map for the Melbourne Marathon 2025?
The 2025 Melbourne Marathon course starts on Batman Avenue and winds past some of the city’s most recognisable landmarks, including Flinders Street Station, the Royal Botanic Gardens, Albert Park Lake, and the St Kilda foreshore.
The race finishes with a lap inside the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), creating an unforgettable final stretch.
Why is the Melbourne Marathon route popular?
The course is known for being scenic and predominantly flat, making it accessible for first-timers while still appealing to experienced marathoners chasing a personal best.
With ocean views, parklands, and city skylines, the route showcases the best of Melbourne while keeping runners motivated from start to finish.
How can runners register for the Melbourne Marathon 2025?
Entries are open online at melbournemarathon.com.au. Early registration means lower fees.
- Marathon: from $150
- Half Marathon: from $120
- 10km: from $70
- 5km: from $50
- 3km Walk: from $35
What road closures will affect Melbourne on marathon day?
Several key routes will close from dawn until late morning. Expect changes around:
- St Kilda Road (both directions)
- Flinders Street Bridge
- Southbank & Docklands precincts
- Fitzroy Street, St Kilda
The best travel options are trains to Richmond or Jolimont and free CBD trams. Drivers should plan ahead and allow extra time for detours.
Where are the best places to watch the Melbourne Marathon?
Cheering zones make the event just as fun for spectators as runners. Top viewing points include:
- Inside the MCG – free entry with electric atmosphere
- St Kilda Esplanade – seaside stretch with big crowds
- Federation Square – lively CBD viewing
- Albert Park Lake – scenic and family-friendly spot
Why should you take part in or attend the Melbourne Marathon?
The Melbourne Marathon Festival is a mix of personal challenge and community celebration. For some, it is chasing a time goal. For others, it is walking with family or running for charity. What unites everyone is the finish line inside the MCG — a once-in-a-lifetime feeling.
What tips can help with training and preparation?
Most runners should start training 12–16 weeks before race day. Build up slowly, mix in strength and recovery sessions, and test your nutrition strategy ahead of time. If you are coming from interstate, book accommodation near the city or MCG early.
What can you do in Melbourne after the marathon?
Crossing the finish line is just the start of your Melbourne day. Afterwards, you can:
- Refuel at Southbank restaurants by the Yarra.
- Chill at St Kilda Beach with a post-run dip.
- Enjoy laneway cafés for Melbourne’s famous brunch.
- Explore local Sunday markets to wind down.
FAQs
Is the Melbourne Marathon on 12 October 2025?
Yes, it is locked in for that Sunday.
Does the race finish inside the MCG?
Yes, every event finishes inside the stadium.
Are there family-friendly events?
Yes, the 5km run and 3km walk are perfect for beginners and kids.
Do finishers get medals?
Yes, all participants across all distances receive medals.
Is the event free for spectators?
Yes, entry into the MCG to cheer runners is free.
What is the cut-off time for the marathon?
Runners have seven hours to complete the full marathon.
Can beginners join the Melbourne Marathon Festival?
Yes, there are shorter distances designed for all levels.
Building fitness for the 42.195km marathon often goes beyond running alone. Cross-training with the bike is a popular way to strengthen the cardio-respiratory system while giving joints a break.
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