Three Must-Attend MCM Weekend Events

MCM Weekend offers a roller coaster of emotionally charged activities. These begin with thrilling anticipation, evolve to energizing preparation and conclude with thrilling participation. To fully immerse one’s self in the MCM experience means to attend more than just the Marathon or 10K. It means being part of the fun and excitement of MCM Weekend events.

1-MCM Kickoff presented by First Command. Friday, October 20 at 7 p.m. Gaylord National Resort. It’s the party runners deserve after months of training. The region’s best DJ will have everyone dancing and celebrating the start of MCM Weekend. Caricaturists will create old-fashioned, hand drawn selfies of the cartoon-you. A hypnotist will infuse positive energy in runners in preparation for the MCM. Numerous running experts will mix and mingle with the crowd to offer last minute advice. And enjoy light snacks while meeting other runners. First Timers receive a special pin commemorating their first marathon. Tickets are required and limited.

2-MCM Runners Conference presented by Columbia Business School. Friday, October 20 and Saturday, October 21. Gaylord National Resort. During the Health & Fitness Expo, in an adjacent breakout room, the MCM hosts the Runners Conference, a free series of presentations, panel discussions and talks aimed at informing, educating and inspiring runners. Multiple sessions will be held on both days of the Expo and will feature speakers from Brooks, Clif, MedStar Sports Medicine, Runner’s World magazine and more! Sign up to hear from MCM Director Rick Nealis or listen to the personal tales from runners in the MCMTalks session. Best of all there is no charge to attend. Advance sign up is required though.

3-Carbo Dining In. Saturday, October 21 at 6 p.m. Gaylord National Resort. The marathon world’s best pasta party features a musical performance by the American Bombshells and guest speaker Michael Wardian, highly accomplished American marathoner and ultra-marathoner. A plentiful buffet with all the carbs a marathoner could want. There spirit of camaraderie and unparalleled excitement on the eve of the MCM. Tickets are required and limited. Purchase a seat while there is still a spot.

Of course, all runners are already planning to attend the MCM Health & Fitness Expo including Packet Pick-up before the MCM on Friday, October 20 and Saturday, October 21 and the MCM Finish Festival on Sunday, October 22 after finishing the MCM.

Another event that spectators should be aware of, especially those with little children in tow, is the Crystal City Family Festival. Hosted on the street adjacent to Miles 22-23 of the MCM course in the Crystal City area of Arlington, the Festival offers families with youngsters a great spot to watch the Marathon and see runners twice from one location. Additionally, the little ones can enjoy face painting, moon bounces, a DJ, cotton candy and other entertainment fit for kids but intended to provide some stress relief to parents.

Thanks for visiting this archived blog. The content and details are specific only for the event year highlighted in this article. For current information, please visit the event page within the MCM website.