Dublin City Half Marathon 2026: Everything you need to know ahead of Sunday May 3rd

Dublin’s city centre is braced for a significant influx of visitors this Sunday, May 3rd, as the Dublin City Half Marathon returns for its second year. The event, which has already established itself as a fixture on the capital’s sporting calendar, will see 13,200 participants take to the streets for one of the largest mass-participation events in the country.

Organisers, the Dublin Marathon Group, introduced a ballot system this year to manage unprecedented interest. The move followed a successful inaugural run in 2025, with capacity increased by 700 places to meet demand. While the bulk of entries were settled via public ballot, remaining spots were reserved for elite athletes, charitable partners, and international entrants.

The Route and Timings

The race will commence in the shadow of the Spire, with a wheelchair start at 8:20am followed by staggered waves:

• Wave 1: 8:30am
• Wave 2: 8:45am
• Wave 3: 9:00am

The 21.1km course takes runners through the Northside, passing Croke Park and the tree-lined avenues of Raheny before hitting the Clontarf coastline. The final stretch brings the field back toward the historic Five Lamps, finishing on Guild Street in the North East Inner-City.

Logistics for Runners

Participants are advised to arrive at their assigned assembly areas by 8:00am.

• Baggage: A bag drop facility will operate at Custom House Quay.
• Support: Pacers will be on hand for target times between 1:30 and 2:50.
• Hydration: Water stations are located at the 5km, 10km, 14km, and 18km marks.

A Tribute in Bronze

Finishers will receive a unique medal paying tribute to the late Luke Kelly. The design, inspired by Vera Klute’s statue on Sheriff Street, features musical notes from the legendary balladeer’s banjo—a nod to the race’s finish in the heart of Kelly’s native North Inner-City.

Travel and Traffic Diversions

Significant traffic restrictions will be in effect. Gardaí have advised that road closures along the route will begin as early as 3:00am in some areas, with O'Connell Street and the North Strand particularly affected.

Public Transport Changes:

• Luas: Both Red and Green lines will see partial closures between 7:00am and 9:30am.
• Bus & Rail: Expect diversions on many Dublin Bus routes; Irish Rail services will continue but users are urged to check for slight schedule adjustments.

For those who must drive, discounted parking is available at several city-centre Q-Park locations by using the code RACE 26.

Pro Tip: Spectators are encouraged to congregate along the Clontarf seafront and near the Five Lamps for the best views of the field before the finish.