Louisiana

Louisiana is known for its rich culture and wild times. The Louisiana Marathon is nothing different. Not just a challenging marathon race, it is marked by the festivals galore that provide both runners and spectators alike with locale fare and music that is out of this world. Most runners come for the marathon, but end up staying for a weekend of crazy abandonment. Touting some of the best cuisines from around the world, there is no problem loading up with pasta before, or gorging after a long day of grueling trail-running. Established in 2012, it may be a newbie to the block, but it is catching on quickly. Taking place in the capital city of Louisiana, Baton Rouge, it has become a major racing event that celebrates the unique culture of a town that is seemingly hidden from the rest of the modern world in old charm grace. Not just a marathon, there is a half, quarter, and a multi-face format, that entertains the whole family. Mainly a road race, the participants of the competition make their way along the 26.2-mile race through the city center enjoying the local music and taking in the sites of the historic architecture. The home of Jazz, there is everything from hip-hop to rock ’n’ roll to be heard bellowing down the streets. The best part is that for those who have the Boston Marathon within their aspiration sites, this is the perfect qualifier to make your way to the pinnacle of elite marathons.