Held over Saturday and Sunday, March 21–22, 2026, the Yuengling Shamrock Marathon Weekend transforms Virginia Beach into a festive spring running festival with events suited for every age and ability. Saturday hosts the TowneBank Shamrock 8K and youth races, while Sunday delivers the headline marathon and half marathon, with runners choosing optional challenge packages that combine multiple distances across the weekend. Courses follow flat, paved roads along the oceanfront, through beachfront neighborhoods, and past landmarks such as First Landing State Park and Cape Henry Lighthouse, incorporating sections of the Virginia Beach Boardwalk for classic coastal views. The weekend is known for enthusiastic support, green-themed festivities, and a lively finish-line party featuring music, food, and Yuengling for adult finishers. It’s one of the most iconic spring running weekends on the U.S. East Coast.
Races
Race Date:
21 March, 2026
Taking place on Saturday, March 21, 2026, the 8 K race features a certified, fast-paced loop along the Virginia Beach shoreline. Organized by J&A Racing, it’s perfect for runners seeking a shorter yet festive experience.
Race Date:
22 March, 2026
The TowneBank Shamrock 8K runs on Saturday 21 March 2026 at 7:30 a.m., a 5-mile (8 km) flat and fast road race organised by J&A Racing at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront, starting in the heart of the resort strip and looping back to a festive beachside finish as the kickoff event of the Shamrock weekend.
Race Date:
22 March, 2026
Also on Sunday 22 March 2026 at 7:30 a.m., the Sentara Shamrock Half Marathon is a 21.1 km event organised by J&A Racing from the same Virginia Beach resort start, following a flat, spectator-lined loop through neighbourhoods and along the oceanfront before finishing on the boardwalk next to the marathon.
Race Date:
22 March, 2026
Also on March 22, 2026, the Half Marathon follows the same scenic oceanfront route as the full, offering flat coastal terrain and medal-worthy ambiance. This race, hosted by J&A Racing, is ideal for first-timers and seasoned runners alike.
Race Date:
22 March, 2026
The Yuengling Shamrock Marathon takes place on Sunday 22 March 2026 at 7:30 a.m., a flat, fast 42.195 km road race organised by J&A Racing along the Virginia Beach Oceanfront in Virginia Beach, Virginia, starting near the resort area and finishing on the boardwalk by the Atlantic with a big Irish-themed beach party.
Weather based on historical averages.
FAQs
What is the TowneBank Shamrock 8K?
How long is the TowneBank Shamrock 8K?
Where does the TowneBank Shamrock 8K take place?
What is the elevation gain of the TowneBank Shamrock 8K?
How can I prepare for the TowneBank Shamrock 8K?
How do I choose the right training plan for the TowneBank Shamrock 8K?
Taking place on Saturday, March 21, 2026, the 8 K race features a certified, fast-paced loop along the Virginia Beach shoreline. Organized by J&A Racing, it’s perfect for runners seeking a shorter yet festive experience.
The TowneBank Shamrock 8K is 8km long.
The TowneBank Shamrock 8K takes place in Virginia Beach, VA, USA.
Runna classifies the TowneBank Shamrock 8K elevation profile as Flat.
The best way to train for the next race is to use a personalised training plan that takes into account your current running ability, schedule, and preferences.
This will help you steadily improve your running performance and get ready for the race without risking an injury.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
Which plan you choose will depend on your experience, schedule, objectives, and the date of the race.
Runna offers personalised training plans for every runner and every goal: Whether this is your first, 10th or 100th race, we'll help you get the most out of your training and smash your goals.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
What is the TowneBank Shamrock 8K?
Taking place on Saturday, March 21, 2026, the 8 K race features a certified, fast-paced loop along the Virginia Beach shoreline. Organized by J&A Racing, it’s perfect for runners seeking a shorter yet festive experience.
How long is the TowneBank Shamrock 8K?
The TowneBank Shamrock 8K is 8km long.
Where does the TowneBank Shamrock 8K take place?
The TowneBank Shamrock 8K takes place in Virginia Beach, VA, USA.
What is the elevation gain of the TowneBank Shamrock 8K?
Runna classifies the TowneBank Shamrock 8K elevation profile as Flat.
How can I prepare for the TowneBank Shamrock 8K?
The best way to train for the next race is to use a personalised training plan that takes into account your current running ability, schedule, and preferences.
This will help you steadily improve your running performance and get ready for the race without risking an injury.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
How do I choose the right training plan for the TowneBank Shamrock 8K?
Which plan you choose will depend on your experience, schedule, objectives, and the date of the race.
Runna offers personalised training plans for every runner and every goal: Whether this is your first, 10th or 100th race, we'll help you get the most out of your training and smash your goals.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
What is the Yuengling TowneBank Shamrock 8K?
How long is the Yuengling TowneBank Shamrock 8K?
Where does the Yuengling TowneBank Shamrock 8K take place?
What is the elevation gain of the Yuengling TowneBank Shamrock 8K?
How can I prepare for the Yuengling TowneBank Shamrock 8K?
How do I choose the right training plan for the Yuengling TowneBank Shamrock 8K?
The TowneBank Shamrock 8K runs on Saturday 21 March 2026 at 7:30 a.m., a 5-mile (8 km) flat and fast road race organised by J&A Racing at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront, starting in the heart of the resort strip and looping back to a festive beachside finish as the kickoff event of the Shamrock weekend.
The Yuengling TowneBank Shamrock 8K is 8km long.
The Yuengling TowneBank Shamrock 8K takes place in Virginia Beach, VA, USA.
Runna classifies the Yuengling TowneBank Shamrock 8K elevation profile as Flat.
The best way to train for the next race is to use a personalised training plan that takes into account your current running ability, schedule, and preferences.
This will help you steadily improve your running performance and get ready for the race without risking an injury.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
Which plan you choose will depend on your experience, schedule, objectives, and the date of the race.
Runna offers personalised training plans for every runner and every goal: Whether this is your first, 10th or 100th race, we'll help you get the most out of your training and smash your goals.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
What is the Yuengling TowneBank Shamrock 8K?
The TowneBank Shamrock 8K runs on Saturday 21 March 2026 at 7:30 a.m., a 5-mile (8 km) flat and fast road race organised by J&A Racing at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront, starting in the heart of the resort strip and looping back to a festive beachside finish as the kickoff event of the Shamrock weekend.
How long is the Yuengling TowneBank Shamrock 8K?
The Yuengling TowneBank Shamrock 8K is 8km long.
Where does the Yuengling TowneBank Shamrock 8K take place?
The Yuengling TowneBank Shamrock 8K takes place in Virginia Beach, VA, USA.
What is the elevation gain of the Yuengling TowneBank Shamrock 8K?
Runna classifies the Yuengling TowneBank Shamrock 8K elevation profile as Flat.
How can I prepare for the Yuengling TowneBank Shamrock 8K?
The best way to train for the next race is to use a personalised training plan that takes into account your current running ability, schedule, and preferences.
This will help you steadily improve your running performance and get ready for the race without risking an injury.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
How do I choose the right training plan for the Yuengling TowneBank Shamrock 8K?
Which plan you choose will depend on your experience, schedule, objectives, and the date of the race.
Runna offers personalised training plans for every runner and every goal: Whether this is your first, 10th or 100th race, we'll help you get the most out of your training and smash your goals.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
What is the Yuengling Sentara Shamrock Half Marathon?
How long is the Yuengling Sentara Shamrock Half Marathon?
Where does the Yuengling Sentara Shamrock Half Marathon take place?
What is the elevation gain of the Yuengling Sentara Shamrock Half Marathon?
How can I prepare for the Yuengling Sentara Shamrock Half Marathon?
How do I choose the right training plan for the Yuengling Sentara Shamrock Half Marathon?
Also on Sunday 22 March 2026 at 7:30 a.m., the Sentara Shamrock Half Marathon is a 21.1 km event organised by J&A Racing from the same Virginia Beach resort start, following a flat, spectator-lined loop through neighbourhoods and along the oceanfront before finishing on the boardwalk next to the marathon.
The Yuengling Sentara Shamrock Half Marathon is 21km long.
The Yuengling Sentara Shamrock Half Marathon takes place in Virginia Beach, VA, USA.
Runna classifies the Yuengling Sentara Shamrock Half Marathon elevation profile as Flat.
The best way to train for the next race is to use a personalised training plan that takes into account your current running ability, schedule, and preferences.
This will help you steadily improve your running performance and get ready for the race without risking an injury.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
Which plan you choose will depend on your experience, schedule, objectives, and the date of the race.
Runna offers personalised training plans for every runner and every goal: Whether this is your first, 10th or 100th race, we'll help you get the most out of your training and smash your goals.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
What is the Yuengling Sentara Shamrock Half Marathon?
Also on Sunday 22 March 2026 at 7:30 a.m., the Sentara Shamrock Half Marathon is a 21.1 km event organised by J&A Racing from the same Virginia Beach resort start, following a flat, spectator-lined loop through neighbourhoods and along the oceanfront before finishing on the boardwalk next to the marathon.
How long is the Yuengling Sentara Shamrock Half Marathon?
The Yuengling Sentara Shamrock Half Marathon is 21km long.
Where does the Yuengling Sentara Shamrock Half Marathon take place?
The Yuengling Sentara Shamrock Half Marathon takes place in Virginia Beach, VA, USA.
What is the elevation gain of the Yuengling Sentara Shamrock Half Marathon?
Runna classifies the Yuengling Sentara Shamrock Half Marathon elevation profile as Flat.
How can I prepare for the Yuengling Sentara Shamrock Half Marathon?
The best way to train for the next race is to use a personalised training plan that takes into account your current running ability, schedule, and preferences.
This will help you steadily improve your running performance and get ready for the race without risking an injury.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
How do I choose the right training plan for the Yuengling Sentara Shamrock Half Marathon?
Which plan you choose will depend on your experience, schedule, objectives, and the date of the race.
Runna offers personalised training plans for every runner and every goal: Whether this is your first, 10th or 100th race, we'll help you get the most out of your training and smash your goals.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
What is the Sentara Shamrock Half Marathon?
How long is the Sentara Shamrock Half Marathon?
Where does the Sentara Shamrock Half Marathon take place?
What is the elevation gain of the Sentara Shamrock Half Marathon?
How can I prepare for the Sentara Shamrock Half Marathon?
How do I choose the right training plan for the Sentara Shamrock Half Marathon?
Also on March 22, 2026, the Half Marathon follows the same scenic oceanfront route as the full, offering flat coastal terrain and medal-worthy ambiance. This race, hosted by J&A Racing, is ideal for first-timers and seasoned runners alike.
The Sentara Shamrock Half Marathon is 21km long.
The Sentara Shamrock Half Marathon takes place in Virginia Beach, VA, USA.
Runna classifies the Sentara Shamrock Half Marathon elevation profile as Flat.
The best way to train for the next race is to use a personalised training plan that takes into account your current running ability, schedule, and preferences.
This will help you steadily improve your running performance and get ready for the race without risking an injury.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
Which plan you choose will depend on your experience, schedule, objectives, and the date of the race.
Runna offers personalised training plans for every runner and every goal: Whether this is your first, 10th or 100th race, we'll help you get the most out of your training and smash your goals.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
What is the Sentara Shamrock Half Marathon?
Also on March 22, 2026, the Half Marathon follows the same scenic oceanfront route as the full, offering flat coastal terrain and medal-worthy ambiance. This race, hosted by J&A Racing, is ideal for first-timers and seasoned runners alike.
How long is the Sentara Shamrock Half Marathon?
The Sentara Shamrock Half Marathon is 21km long.
Where does the Sentara Shamrock Half Marathon take place?
The Sentara Shamrock Half Marathon takes place in Virginia Beach, VA, USA.
What is the elevation gain of the Sentara Shamrock Half Marathon?
Runna classifies the Sentara Shamrock Half Marathon elevation profile as Flat.
How can I prepare for the Sentara Shamrock Half Marathon?
The best way to train for the next race is to use a personalised training plan that takes into account your current running ability, schedule, and preferences.
This will help you steadily improve your running performance and get ready for the race without risking an injury.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
How do I choose the right training plan for the Sentara Shamrock Half Marathon?
Which plan you choose will depend on your experience, schedule, objectives, and the date of the race.
Runna offers personalised training plans for every runner and every goal: Whether this is your first, 10th or 100th race, we'll help you get the most out of your training and smash your goals.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
What is the Yuengling Shamrock Marathon?
How long is the Yuengling Shamrock Marathon?
Where does the Yuengling Shamrock Marathon take place?
What is the elevation gain of the Yuengling Shamrock Marathon?
How can I prepare for the Yuengling Shamrock Marathon?
How do I choose the right training plan for the Yuengling Shamrock Marathon?
The Yuengling Shamrock Marathon takes place on Sunday 22 March 2026 at 7:30 a.m., a flat, fast 42.195 km road race organised by J&A Racing along the Virginia Beach Oceanfront in Virginia Beach, Virginia, starting near the resort area and finishing on the boardwalk by the Atlantic with a big Irish-themed beach party.
The Yuengling Shamrock Marathon is 42km long.
The Yuengling Shamrock Marathon takes place in Virginia Beach, VA, USA.
Runna classifies the Yuengling Shamrock Marathon elevation profile as Flat.
The best way to train for the next race is to use a personalised training plan that takes into account your current running ability, schedule, and preferences.
This will help you steadily improve your running performance and get ready for the race without risking an injury.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
Which plan you choose will depend on your experience, schedule, objectives, and the date of the race.
Runna offers personalised training plans for every runner and every goal: Whether this is your first, 10th or 100th race, we'll help you get the most out of your training and smash your goals.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
What is the Yuengling Shamrock Marathon?
The Yuengling Shamrock Marathon takes place on Sunday 22 March 2026 at 7:30 a.m., a flat, fast 42.195 km road race organised by J&A Racing along the Virginia Beach Oceanfront in Virginia Beach, Virginia, starting near the resort area and finishing on the boardwalk by the Atlantic with a big Irish-themed beach party.
How long is the Yuengling Shamrock Marathon?
The Yuengling Shamrock Marathon is 42km long.
Where does the Yuengling Shamrock Marathon take place?
The Yuengling Shamrock Marathon takes place in Virginia Beach, VA, USA.
What is the elevation gain of the Yuengling Shamrock Marathon?
Runna classifies the Yuengling Shamrock Marathon elevation profile as Flat.
How can I prepare for the Yuengling Shamrock Marathon?
The best way to train for the next race is to use a personalised training plan that takes into account your current running ability, schedule, and preferences.
This will help you steadily improve your running performance and get ready for the race without risking an injury.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
How do I choose the right training plan for the Yuengling Shamrock Marathon?
Which plan you choose will depend on your experience, schedule, objectives, and the date of the race.
Runna offers personalised training plans for every runner and every goal: Whether this is your first, 10th or 100th race, we'll help you get the most out of your training and smash your goals.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
