McLaren Vale Running Festival
Official WebsiteAbout This Event
Experience the McLaren Vale Running Festival in the heart of South Australia's iconic wine region. Choose from a 5km, 10km or Half Marathon on scenic road routes, enjoy a festive atmosphere and finish with award ceremonies and post‑race celebrations.
Events & entry fees
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Monday 18 October
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Half MarathonStart TBA$110
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10kmStart TBA$70
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5kmStart TBA$50
Entry fees as listed on 27 Oct 2026. Prices often rise after early bird, so check the entry page for today's price.
Quick Facts
- Date
- Monday, 18 October 2027
- Terrain
- Road
- Location
- Gaffney Road, Willunga, SA
- Entry Fee
- From $50 (5km General), $70 (10km General), $110 (Half Marathon General)
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Start Time
- 7:30 AM (Half Marathon) – other distances start shortly after
- Good for Beginners
- Yes – the 5km distance is ideal for first‑time racers, and the gently rolling course suits all abilities.
Free training
Training for McLaren Vale Running Festival?
Race day is Mon 18 Oct 2027, 50 weeks away. Free training plans start up to 20 weeks before race day, so a plan for it can start from 7 June. Save it now; until then, 12 weeks of building is a good start.
Free with a MyRaceHub account. Saves the race to your races and opens training setup.
Event Details
Course Description
The race starts on Gaffney Road in Willunga and winds through the rolling vineyards and country lanes of the McLaren Vale wine region. Runners will tackle a flat to gently rolling road surface, with well‑marked drink stations at Edwards Road (2.5 km), Strout Road (6 km), Chalk Hill Road (8 km), Park Drive (13 km) and Binney Road (18.5 km) before the finish line. Road closures along Gaffney, Edwards, Binney, Strout, McMurtrie, Hunt and Chalk Hill Roads ensure a safe, uninterrupted course. Spectators can enjoy the picturesque backdrop of vines, historic farms and the charming town of Willunga.
Getting There
Parking is provided at Willunga Oval from 6 am, a short walk to the event village. Access to the oval is via Railway Terrace off Aldinga Road or Main Road. For public transport options and any additional parking details, please check the official event website.
Weather & What to Pack
October is spring in South Australia, with mild to warm days averaging 15‑25 °C and plenty of sunshine. Light layers, a hat and sunscreen are recommended, as temperatures can change quickly. Stay hydrated; drink stations are available along the course and a post‑race water supply will be provided.
Race details last updated 19 Oct 2026
Ready to run McLaren Vale Running Festival?
Official WebsiteFrequently Asked Questions
When should I arrive on race day?
Bib collection and bag drop open at 6:30 am. Arriving by 6:45 am gives you plenty of time to collect your bib, warm up and line up at the start.
What amenities are provided on the course?
Four drink stations are positioned at Edwards Road, Strout Road, Chalk Hill Road and Park Drive, each offering water, Sodii Hydration Salts and toilet facilities. Additional support is at the start/finish area.
Is the race suitable for beginners?
Yes. The 5km distance is perfect for new runners, and the road course is relatively flat with gentle hills, making it approachable for all fitness levels.
Where can I park my car?
Free parking is available at Willunga Oval from 6 am. No parking is permitted on Gaffney Road between Main Road and Aldinga Road, so use the designated oval area. Check the official website for any updates.
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