Australia's 7 Biggest Fun Runs

Australia is known for its beautiful races, runs and trails. We do it well. Race-tourism is big here down under, where many thousands of runners across the world descend on the country for some incredible races.

But, is bigger always better? Not necessarily. Australia has some incredible races that attract less than a couple hundred runners.

From the beautiful remote beaches of Western Australia, to the Blue Mountains, all the way down to the stunning mountains of Tasmania. Although beautiful and scenic, not all runs have the large commercial attractions of the major city events, like the Melbourne Marathon, for example.

So, bigger is not always better. And when talk about 'big' we're talking about the number of participants, not the distance of the race.

This year we ventured out to the Peaks & Trails event in Dunkeld (Grampians). It's a really small event, but it oozes character and community spirit. I'm not sure how many runners there were, my guess is around 150, but the way it brings together a community is special.

Early morning sun rising from beneath The Grampians, fire pits around the starting line to warm runners and spark conversation, a soup stand, the smell of fresh local coffee and friends uniting in the early hours of the morning. It's hard to beat.

However, bigger races have their unique charm, too. Big races become a cultural melting pot in many ways. When you put tens of thousands of runners from all over Australia, and all over the world on one course, you get this incredible festival-like atmosphere that is hard to replicate.

There's a reason why these big (often commercialised) events continue to grow in popularity year after year.

It's less about the local community spirit you find at other events, but more about the sheer festival atmosphere. The feeling of standing amongst 50,000 runners queuing up at a start line, ready to tackle their personal goals and challenges in unparalleled.

Both big and small events play a crucial role in Australian running culture. Here are the seven biggest events in Australia by participation numbers:

1. City 2 Surf (Sydney)

The City2Surf in Sydney is one of the world’s largest and most iconic fun runs, drawing over 80,000 participants annually.

Held every August, course begins at Hyde Park in the CBD and finishes at the stunning Bondi Beach.

The route offers scenic views of Sydney’s landmarks and waterfronts, but runners must conquer the infamous Heartbreak Hill, a tough two-kilometre incline at the halfway mark. Whether you're an elite athlete, casual jogger, or family runner, the event welcomes everyone, with many participants dressing in costumes and raising big money for charity.

Beyond the race, the festive atmosphere continues at the village with post-run celebrations. City2Surf embodies community spirit, making it a must-do event for anyone looking to enjoy Sydney’s vibrant running culture while supporting a great cause.

If nothing else, it's one to experience at least once in your life. 80-90,000 runners all heading in one direction, having fun, tacking personal goals, that's incredible.

2. Sydney Marathon

The Sydney Marathon is one of Australia’s premier running events, attracting close to 50,000 of participants from around the world.

Held annually in September, it offers runners a full 42.2-kilometre marathon starting from Milsons Point and finishing at the iconic Sydney Opera House.

The course takes participants through some of Sydney's most breathtaking locations, including the Harbour Bridge, Darling Harbour, and the Royal Botanic Gardens.

In addition to the marathon, the event includes a half marathon, a 10K, and a family fun run, making it accessible to all fitness levels.

Known for its spectacular views and festive atmosphere, The Sydney Marathon is a candidate to become the seventh Abbott World Marathon Major. Whether you're running competitively or for the experience, crossing the finish line by the Opera House is a memorable achievement that highlights the beauty and excitement of Sydney’s vibrant running community.

3. Melbourne Marathon

Do you mind if I inject a little bit of bias for this one? The Melbourne Marathon is a highlight of Australia’s running calendar, drawing 40,000+ runners in the most recent event in October 2024.

Us Melbournians defend the Melb Mara at all costs. It's a gem of the city, bringing together all walks of life for a festival of running. Runly was fortunate enough to exhibit this year and I can personally attest to the incredible vibe that the organisers create for this beautiful and iconic event.

The event offers a range of distances, including the full 42.2-kilometre marathon, a half marathon, a 10K, a 5K run/walk, and a kids' run, making it suitable for runners of all abilities.

The marathon course is renowned for its flat and fast route, starting at Batman Avenue and weaving through iconic landmarks such as Albert Park Lake, St Kilda Beach, and the Royal Botanic Gardens, before culminating with an unforgettable finish inside the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Known for its energetic crowd support and vibrant atmosphere, the Melbourne Marathon provides participants with a world-class running experience.

With opportunities to raise funds for charity and enjoy the thrill of finishing at the MCG, this event captures the spirit of Melbourne's passionate fitness culture.

4. HBF Run For A Reason (Perth)

Perth, you guys absolutely turn it on for this one. 37,000 runners turned out in 2024.

The HBF Run for a Reason is a popular annual running event in Perth, combining fitness with fundraising.

Held in May, the event encourages participants to walk, jog, or run for a cause close to their hearts, raising significant funds for various charities. It offers multiple distances, including a half mara, 12km run, an 8km course, and a 4km family walk, making it accessible to all fitness levels.

The scenic routes take participants through the streets of Perth, with highlights including views of the Swan River and landmarks like Optus Stadium. Known for its inclusive and community-focused atmosphere, the event welcomes serious runners, casual participants, and families alike.

The finish line festivities, complete with food, entertainment, and celebrations, reflect the spirit of giving back while promoting health and wellbeing. Whether aiming for a personal best or simply enjoying the experience, the HBF Run for a Reason offers a chance to make a difference while staying active.

I haven't run this one personally, but it's right up there on the bucket list. Give it a go in 2025.

5. Bridge to Brisbane

The Bridge to Brisbane is Queensland’s most popular running event, held annually in Brisbane, typically in August or September.

In 2024, around 30-35,000 participants hit the streets for this one. Massive!

The course provides stunning views of Brisbane, starting from either the Gateway Bridge or Captain Burke Park and winding through the city streets, with both routes finishing at the South Bank Parklands.

Known for its festive atmosphere, the event encourages participants to dress up in costumes and raise funds for charities. With live music and cheering crowds along the route, Bridge to Brisbane is as much about community spirit as it is about running.

The day wraps up with celebrations at the finish line, where participants enjoy entertainment, food, and prizes.

6. Gold Coast Marathon

The GCM has long been known as an iconic event in the Australian running scene. It's a destination race for many. 26-30,000 runners lined up over two days for the last event.

The Gold Coast Marathon is one of Australia’s most prestigious running events, held annually in July along Queensland’s stunning coastline. The marathon route showcases breathtaking ocean views, running along the Broadwater and Surfers Paradise, with enthusiastic crowds lining the streets to cheer participants on. It's a real vibe.

Celebrated for its festive atmosphere and perfect winter running conditions, whether chasing a personal best or enjoying a scenic jog by the beach, runners are rewarded with an unforgettable finish and post-race celebrations in true Gold Coast style.

7. Run for the Kids (Melbourne)

The Run for the Kids is a beloved annual charity run in Melbourne, raising funds for the Royal Children's Hospital Good Friday Appeal.

Typically held in March or April, the event offers participants two scenic routes—a 14.5km long course and a 5.2km short course—catering to all fitness levels, from competitive runners to families.

One of the event's unique features is that the longer route takes participants through usually restricted areas, such as the CityLink tunnels and over the Bolte Bridge, providing rare views of Melbourne's cityscape. It's a bizarre, yet special feeling to be running over the Bolte.

25,000 runners entered last year. It's a heart-warming run that strikes a balance between community and performance.