Half Marathon races near Medford

The Baystate Marathon begins and ends at the Tsongas Center in Lowell, Massachusetts. Its primary objective is to provide marathoners a strong opportunity to achieve a Boston qualifying time. This fall race weekend includes a marathon, a half marathon, a half marathon relay, and wheeled divisions for both the marathon and half marathon. The Greater Lowell Road Runners organize the event, stating it is “For Runners - By Runners,” which is evident in the practical arrangements for the day rather than in elaborate additions. The organizers characterize the course as flat and fast, attracting runners aiming for a Boston Qualifier (BQ) or a personal record, alongside recreational runners, amateurs, and competitive elites. The expo is located adjacent to the start and finish area, allowing packet pickup to also offer a view of the final mile. Post-race, participants can view their name and time on monitors, ring a BQ/PR bell with a photographer if they achieve a qualifying mark or personal best, utilize changing tents, and visit a recovery tent for massage or stretching. The Motivation Mile features signs with messages from club members and other runners, placed at a point where many participants often need encouragement.

The Livestrong at the Y 5K & Half Marathon is a Saturday road race in Peabody, Massachusetts, organized by the YMCA of Metro North and the Torigian Family YMCA. The event features a 5K and a half marathon, centered on supporting Livestrong at the Y, a 12-week YMCA program assisting cancer survivors in regaining strength post-treatment. The 5K welcomes walkers, making the shorter distance suitable for families and supporters alongside runners. The race is locally focused and community-oriented, with registration fees directly benefiting the YMCA program beyond basic race costs. Both distances have sold out in the past, and local road closures are part of the race day arrangements. Spectators have options to donate or place lawn signs, while participants receive post-race refreshments and awards for top finishers in age categories.

The Jingle Bell Half Marathon & 5K is a Christmas-season running event in Haverhill, Massachusetts. Both the half marathon and 5K begin in the morning at 100 Elliott Street. The event focuses on holiday costumes, jingling gear, and a relaxed winter-race atmosphere, distinct from a competitive road-racing style. A virtual option is available alongside the in-person races. The Haverhill course concludes at Northern Essex Community College. It is promoted as a run or walk through New England winter scenery, attracting approximately 1,000 to 5,000 participants. The Jingle Bell name also links to the established Bill Rodgers Somerville Jingle Bell 5K. This race starts and finishes in Davis Square, travels through Somerville's streets and public spaces, frequently sells out in advance, and concludes with a post-race gathering at neighborhood bars.

The Happy Holidays Half MerryThon & 5K is a December running event in Gloucester, Massachusetts, featuring both a half marathon and a 5K. Runners are encouraged to participate in holiday costumes, such as reindeer and elves. Registration includes a long-sleeve race shirt, a Naughty or Nice hat, a drawstring backpack, free race photos, and finisher medals for both distances. The course follows the Gloucester coastline, offering ocean views. The half marathon is USATF certified, and the event is USATF sanctioned. Aid stations on the route provide hydration and nutrition. The finish area offers pizza, holiday treats, a post-race brew, refreshments, certificates, and awards for overall and age groups. The race benefits local nonprofits: the Educational Foundation for Rockport, The Open Door Food Pantry, and Essex County Greenbelt.

The Fool's Dual Half Marathon & 5K begins in Gloucester, Massachusetts, offering a spring race on Cape Ann with two distance options: 5K or 13.1 miles. The half marathon is USATF certified, and the event is USATF sanctioned, suitable for runners seeking an official road-race format or a coastal run with a shorter distance.

The Marblehead Half Marathon is a 13.1-mile race in coastal Massachusetts, passing through Marblehead and Salem. It is a USATF-sanctioned event providing on-course hydration and nutrition, GPS runner tracking, result alerts, and free race photos. The finish includes medals, shirts, refreshments, and age-group awards in five-year brackets. The route features Marblehead Neck and Salem Willows, specific to the North Shore. Runners receive a YuKan race bag and shades. The finish line offers chicken sandwich sliders, fresh baked treats, and drinks. The race benefits local groups, including Friends of Marblehead Schools, the Marblehead Council on Aging, The Salem Pantry, and the Salem Council on Aging.

The 15th Twin Lights Half Marathon features a course along the coast with seashore views.