Key West Half Marathon weekend brings closures and busy Old Town streets

Streets in Old Town and the Historic Seaport are busier and several blocks are under temporary closure as the 28th Annual Key West Half Marathon & RunFest begins today, running through Sunday, January 18. The three-day event draws runners from across the United States and abroad and will concentrate pedestrian and vehicle activity during peak race hours.

Race weekend includes packet pick-up and a vendor expo today, with the 5K and 10K set for Saturday, January 17 and the Half Marathon and 8K on Sunday, January 18. Saturday starts are scheduled at 7:00 a.m. for the 5K and 8:00 a.m. for the 10K. Sunday begins with the Half Marathon at 7:00 a.m., followed by the 8K at 7:30 a.m. Organizers have published course maps and schedules online; participants, neighbors and local businesses should review those details before heading out.

Beyond the timed races, RunFest features the Hemingway Rum Stroll, the Key West Beach N’ Beer Mile, artist-designed race shirts and medals, and post-race tastings and music in several locations near the start and finish areas. Live GPS tracking is available through RaceJoy so friends and family can follow runners in real time, and pacing groups are organized for half marathon participants.

Organizers emphasize sustainability and race safety. The event is operating a cup-free policy at water stations and asks runners to bring a reusable vessel. Officials also note volunteer staffing needs and have procedures for registration deadlines and deferrals posted for those who require changes to entries.

The concentration of runners and spectators will affect traffic flow on popular corridors including Duval Street and waterfront access near Mallory Square and the Historic Seaport. Expect higher foot traffic, shortened parking availability and periodic street closures during the early morning race starts. Residents and businesses are advised to plan deliveries, appointments and access routes around the posted race times.

For anyone affected by the weekend schedule, the event website keywesthalfmarathon.com contains course maps, start lists and logistical updates. As the festival portion of RunFest unfolds through Sunday afternoon, neighbors should see continuous activity near the finish areas; city services and race staff will be managing crowd control and safety. The weekend offers economic activity for downtown merchants but also calls for planning from commuters and residents to minimize disruption.