Six Events. Twenty Races. One Unexpected Racecation Destination: Irving, Texas

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Sep 18, 2025, 09:05 ET

Boston Qualifiers to fun runs. Resort stays and lakeside leisure. Southern hospitality and big-city energy. Every runner and reveler finds their place at the Irving Marathon Running Series.

IRVING, Texas, Sept. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Runners looking for more than a finish line will find it in Irving, Texas — an undiscovered treasure tucked between Dallas and Fort Worth. Home to the Irving Marathon Running Series (IMRS), Irving blends Texas hospitality with unexpected luxury touches, making it one of the most surprising cities to plan a racecation.

With six signature events annually, the Irving Marathon Running Series offers a race option every season:

Runners lace up and dress up for the Irving Oktoberfest Half Marathon, where Bavarian flair meets the finish line fun.

A sea of runners at the Irving Marathon start line, set to kick off race day

Irving Oktoberfest Half Marathon - October
Irving Turkey Trot - November
Irving Frost Marathon - January
Irving Love on the Run Half Marathon - February
Irving Marathon - March/April ( Boston Qualifier )
Irving Fiesta de Mayo Half Marathon - May

Each race also has a 10K and 5K, and the Turkey Trot has the traditional 8-mile. For serious athletes, the two marathons are USATF-certified Boston Qualifiers, giving competitive runners a chance to chase their goals on courses known for speed.

The Race is On
The season kicks off with the Irving Oktoberfest Half Marathon on October 4, featuring a flat, fast and fun course. Out-of-town runners can extend their stay to enjoy Oktoberfest, a lively mix of Bavarian brews, brats, music, and merriment that turns race weekend into a true festival.

Exceptional Races, Extraordinary City

"What distinguishes Irving is the balance we offer," said Lazaro Alvarez, Founder/CEO, IMRS. "With six events and multiple race distances per event, there's race appeal for every kind of runner. Our central location near DFW International Airport makes it easy to join us from anywhere in the country. We're not too big and not too small — Irving is 'just right,' combining the convenience of a compact city with the amenities of a world-class destination."

He continues, "Since 2019, our community has hosted more than 45 events, welcoming thousands of runners with the support of volunteers and local staff. Together, we showcase Irving's hospitality and scenic routes."

Visit Irving echoes his point, emphasizing the 'experience' as part of Irving's destination appeal for runners. "Under Alvarez leadership, race weekends are designed to be seamless," said Lori Sirmen of Visit Irving. "From a no-hassle race experience and fast, scenic courses to next-level swag and rockin' post-parties, these events deliver more than miles."

From Start Line to Stay Time
Located just minutes from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, one of the nation's busiest hubs, Irving is easy to reach from almost anywhere in the country. The Westin Irving Convention Center Hotel and the Texican Court are positioned right at the start/finish line for maximum convenience, while the new Ritz-Carlton Dallas, Las Colinas resort is just ten minutes away.

Your Next Adventure Starts Here
Registration is open for all six events. Runners are encouraged to register early and make travel plans now to Visit Irving.

Media Contact: Lori Sirmen, (214) 766-1550

About Irving, Texas
Irving, Texas, is an emerging destination that blends authentic Texas hospitality with unexpected luxury. Located between Dallas and Fort Worth and minutes from DFW International Airport, Irving offers canals and waterways, an urban lake in the city center, diverse dining, luxury resorts, and a walkable entertainment district making it ideal for leisure travel, meetings, and events.

SOURCE Visit Irving