FAQs
- What is the date/time of the 2025 Salem Half Marathon?
- October 11th, 2025. The Half Marathon & 8K will start at 8:00 a.m. Kids will start immediately after the Half Marathon and 8K runners have passed. We will be offering virtual options for all races as well that must be run on your own between 9/10/2025-10/10/2025. The virtual race must be run on the official Salem Half Marathon course.
- How do I register?
- You can only register online by clicking here. Virtual registration will remain open through Friday, October 10th. Registration will be available at Packet Pick-Up. No discount codes will be accepted at walk-up registration.
- What are the entry fees for Half Marathon, 8K, and Kids Run?
- To see the prices please click here. Entry fees are non-refundable. This means once we have received your entry, you will not receive a refund if you cannot participate. You may switch races at no cost except for the difference in price for races. You will have the option to defer your race entry for the next year for a $10 fee if you cannot participate.
- What is included in my race registration?
- All runners in the Half Marathon and 8K will receive an official race shirt (register by 9/12/2025 to be guaranteed the correct size race shirt), a custom medal, chip timing, Chick-fil-A sandwich, free race photos, access to the CORA Recovery Zone featuring stretching & massages, and age group awards. All runners 21+ will also receive a free beer coupon to be used at Olde Salem Brewery anytime over race weekend. *Virtual runners will not receive the chip timing, have access to the Recovery Zone, or be eligible for overall or age group awards.
- What is the cancellation/refund policy for the event?
- The race will be run rain or shine. For the safety of our participants we will only cancel the race for natural causes, terrorists attacks, or other things that would put the safety of the runners or spectators at risk. If we have to cancel an event we would defer your entry for the following year or give you the option to run virtually.
- Once I am registered how can I switch my race?
- If you are signed up for the race and want to switch to the other please click here. This will take you to the registration page where you will need to log-in. Once logged-in you can switch to either races. Deadline to switch races is 10/8/2025.
- For instructions on how to defer your race or how to claim your deferral, click here. Deadline to defer registration is 10/8/2025.
- How do I receive my race packet?
- Packet Pick-up will take place Friday, October 10th at the Salem Farmers Market from 3:00 - 7:00 p.m. as well as Saturday, October 11th from 6:30 - 7:30 a.m. A photo ID is required to pick up your race packet. You may pick up the race packet for ONE other pre-registered runner provided you have a copy of their photo ID. Virtual runners may pick up their packets at Packet Pick-Up, the Salem Parks & Recreation office starting on October 13th or choose to have it shipped for an additional $5.
- Is there a charitable organization involved in this race?
- Yes, proceeds from the race benefit local charities. Over the course of nine years the Salem Half Marathon has donated over $23,000 to local charities. Also, we have several water stations along the course that can be sponsored by local businesses. If businesses sponsor a water station part of the sponsorship goes back to the charity of their choice. In return the charity must be able to work the water station.
- What drinks will be on the course?
- All water stations will serve Gatorade at the first table(s) in BLUE/GREEN cups and water at the second table(s) in WHITE cups.
- Can I wear my headphones on the course?
- The use of headphones is strongly discouraged for your safety and the safety of other runners. Many of the roads will still be open to local traffic. You should be aware of your surroundings at all times.
- Are baby strollers allowed in the race?
- For the safety of everyone, no baby strollers will be allowed in the race.
- Are the courses USATF certified?
- Yes, the Half Marathon and 8K courses are both USATF certified.
- What are the course records?
- Half Marathon: Daniel Jaskowak of Blacksburg, VA, 1:10:16 (2018)
- 8K: Tyler O'Brien of Vinton, VA, 26:11 (2019)
