The 25th annual Baltimore Running Festival is set to take place on Saturday, showcasing a colorful celebration of fitness and community spirit across downtown Baltimore. Anticipating participation from over 14,000 runners, the city has announced numerous road closures, parking restrictions, and commercial vehicle limitations throughout the area, encouraging attendees to plan ahead.
Resident Vallia Cilli expressed her excitement about the event, referring to it as the “most exciting day of the year in Baltimore.” She noted the infectious positivity and lively atmosphere that the festival brings, further amplified by favorable weather predictions.
Starting at 9 p.m. Friday, Pratt Street will be fully closed to traffic between Charles Street and Light Street, with some lane closures on Light Street already in effect. The Baltimore City Department of Transportation has advised that several parking restrictions will also begin Friday night, and race activities will run between 7:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. on Saturday. Motorists are urged to expect traffic disruptions and delays and are encouraged to seek alternate routes outside the race course.
Public transportation is highly recommended as a means to navigate the city during the festivities. For those interested in detailed road closure information, the Baltimore City Department of Transportation’s website provides a comprehensive list.
The excitement kicked off as runners visited the Inner Harbor on Friday night to collect their bibs and familiarize themselves with the course. Participants expressed their eagerness and nerves ahead of the big day. “It seems like a beautiful city to walk through and run through,” remarked Paige Ottavaino, a Pittsburgh resident. UMD student Rishab, who is a first-time marathon runner, voiced his mixed feelings of excitement and anxiety, emphasizing the effort he has put into training.
Following the races, participants can look forward to a festive celebration at the Inner Harbor, allowing them to relish in their achievements with friends and family.
Coinciding with the Baltimore Running Festival, the city will also host Comic Con at the Convention Center, attracting thousands of enthusiastic fans. Sal Jarrold, an avid cosplayer, expressed that events like Comic Con provide an invaluable space for self-expression and social connection.
Amid the festivities, a No Kings protest will take place to voice opposition to President Trump’s policies, demonstrating the vibrant mix of community engagement in Baltimore this weekend.
The combination of health, community, and shared interests promises to make this weekend an exhilarating experience for both participants and spectators, highlighting Baltimore’s unique and dynamic culture.