Bakersfield Marathon

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Q - Can I pick up a bib For another participant?

A - Only if you have a copy of their ID, and a printed waiver that they have signed. Download a copy of that waiver at this link.

Q - Is there free parking?

A - Yes, please read, PARKING CHANGED IN 2025. For maps and details from 2025 click here.

Changes for 2026 include

1. Requiring all participants other than Marathon Runners and Legacy Runners to park at Bakersfield College. Marathoners and Legacy Runners can park at Kern County Museum or Bakersfield College. A Legacy Runner is someone who has done the event all 9 years. Learn more at this link 
2. Quadrupling the amount of buses
3. Adding toilets at the bus pick up location. 

For those arriving after 6:15am and for all Half Marathon, 10K and 6K Participants: Bakersfield College Buses will shuttle participants to the start.

Buses will shuttle participants approximately every 5 mins to the start.

The entrance to Kern County Museum Parking will close promptly at 6:15am. No entrance to parking between 615am and 8am and could be full at 8am and not reopen. 
All race participants arriving after 6:15am should park at Bakersfield College.
After 8am, people can enter the museum lot at 40th.
Please arrive early and visit this page for maps and more details. 

Q - What is the minimum age to register for each event?

A -  Although there is no "standard" age at which a runner should get involved in the sport of running, we recommend runners be at least age 14 for the Marathon, 10 for the Half Marathon, 8 for the 10K, and 6 years old for the 6K. Ultimately, it is up to each parent or guardian to adjust our recommended age, higher or lower, depending upon their dependent's ability to participate in our event.

 

Q - Are dogs allowed on the course?

A - No. Pets, wagons, rollerblades, skateboards, scooters and bicycles of any kind are also NOT allowed on the course for safety concerns.

 

Q - Are baby strollers allowed?

A - Yes, you are allowed to run with a jogger stroller. 

 

Q - Will there be race day registration?

A - We expect all events to be sold out by race day so please check our social media to find out if spots remain available and if so, in which events. 

 

Q - Will there be race day packet pickup available?

A - VIP packet pick up is available on race day for an extra fee, starting at 5:30am. You can add VIP pick up by logging in to your Run Sign Up account and paying for it as an "Add-On"

 

Q - Will there be a bag drop-off at the event?

A - Yes. Free bag drop-off will be available in the "Hotel" building, near the start/finish line, to check your personal belongings. Pick-up will be available at any point during the day. You must supply your own bag and should attach the gear check tag from your bib to that bag.

 

Q - Is the Bakersfield Marathon a Boston Qualifier?

A - Yes, the Bakersfield Marathon is a USATF-certified, Boston Qualifying course. Certification #CA22006DT

 

Q - Can I run with headphones?

A - Yes, but we strongly discourage it. While USATF, the national governing body of the sport, has lifted its ban on headphones and similar devices, we recommend that runners keep only one earbud in to remain aware of race official instructions and emergency vehicles. In past years, some participants have missed course turns while wearing headphones and were disqualified, so staying alert is key to a successful race!

 

Q - Can my friends and family see me along the course?

A - Yes! There are many accessible points around the course for spectators. Keep in mind that street closures will alter normal driving routes around Bakersfield during the race. We recommend seeing our City Impact Tab and Course Maps to find the best places to watch.

 

Q - Can someone special cross the finish line with me without a bib?

A - The Finish Line is reserved for REGISTERED PARTICIPANTS ONLY. Out of respect to the other runners, please tell friends and family that they can only cheer you on as you cross the finish line. They will only be able to congratulate you after you cross the finish line and receive your medallion behind the arch.

 

Q - How "fast" is the course?

A - The Bakersfield Marathon is mostly flat with some hills at the beginning. Please check out the elevation profile on the course maps page for more details.

 

Q - I have never run a race or marathon before, is The Bakersfield Marathon a good fit for my first race?

A - Absolutely! The Bakersfield Marathon is a community event that is geared towards everyone from experienced runners to walkers! The positive energy surrounding The Bakersfield Marathon can carry ANYONE across the finish line. Register today and commit to taking on a new challenge!