Celebrating its 25th year, the Kool-Aid Classic Bicycle Tour navigates the scenic country roads surrounding the birthplace of Kool-Aid. Paved road options include distances of 20, 30 and 60 miles. All paved options include fully supported rest stops and roving support.
We also offer a 50 mile gravel option over rolling hills and minimum maintenance roads. The gravel option includes two rest stops, but no roving support.
Entries processed prior to August 6, 2026 at 11:59 pm include a t-shirt. Entries after that date/time (including on the day of the event) do not include a t-shirt.
Check-In Details: Saturday morning (8/15/26) from 7:00-7:45 am at the Highland Park shelter (behind the Hastings Museum at 14th & Burlington). Everyone must check-in to pick up their rider packet and the t-shirt provided to participants who registered on or prior to August 6, 2026.
Start Time: Saturday morning (8/15/26) at 8:00 am from the parking lot behind the Hastings Museum. This will be preceded by a short rider meeting with general announcements and a safety briefing.
Get ready to experience an extraordinary adventure in the heart of Nebraska with the Nebraska State Fair Marathon in Grand Island! 🌟🏃♂️🏃♀️
The Nebraska State Fair Marathon is back for its 12th year on Saturday, August 29, 2026!
No need to be a marathon runner; there is a race distance for everyone in the family! Options include the Marathon, a Half-Marathon, Marathon Relay, 5K, 1-Mile Kid Run, Push Rim Wheelchair, and Handcycle.
All races will start and finish on the Nebraska State Fairgrounds in Grand Island, Nebraska, with a post-race celebration amidst the fair festivities.
Course Features & Highlights
Festive Atmosphere: The unique blend of the race challenge and the excitement of the State Fair creates a memorable, community-driven experience.
Marathon Relay: This community building opportunity appeals to the competitors as well as the social participants.
Boston Qualifier: The full marathon course is a certified Boston Qualifier.
Participant Perks
Every participant receives:
A commemorative finisher's medal
A custom event shirt. Marathon, Half Marathon and Relay participants will receive a gender specific long sleeve tech shirt while the 5K and 1 Mile participants are sure to enjoy our super soft short sleeve shirt!
Admission to the Nebraska State Fair
Post-race snacks and beverages
1 FREE alcoholic (21+) or non-alcoholic beverage at any of the bars across the grounds
September 12th 2026 -
7:15-8:00 Check In - 7:45 Kids Run - 8:00 2M/5K Race
Medals for 1st Place Male/Female in Each Age Division
Shirt not guaranteed after 08/29/26