M&T Bank Mini Marathon - 1/2 Mile Fun Run

Kick off Vermont City Marathon weekend with the M&T Bank Mini Marathon 1 2 Mile Fun Run at Waterfront Park on Lake Champlain. You will watch young runners ages 4 to 14 take on a short, contained course that stays entirely within the park, so the experience feels both exciting and manageable. If you are arriving in Burlington on Saturday morning, this is an easy first stop that puts you right on the waterfront with the local crowd.

You can expect a lively, family-focused scene, with spectators spread along the half-mile route and clear sightlines to the start and finish from most of the park. Bring your camera because it is simple to get finish line photos without fighting for space. After the last kids come through, the morning naturally turns into a casual lakefront hangout, and you are steps from the Burlington Bike Path and the Echo Leahy Center for Lake Champlain.

Plan to arrive at least 45 minutes before the 9:50 AM start to pick up bibs and claim a good spot near the finish. Registration is $33 and works best handled online ahead of time since race morning entry is not guaranteed. Skip waterfront congestion by parking in the public garages on College Street or Cherry Street and walking down to the park. Dress kids in comfortable running shoes and pack a light jacket because late May can still bring a cool breeze off the lake. The event runs rain or shine, although severe weather can trigger delays, and most finishers receive a commemorative medal. Younger participants are often accompanied by a guardian.

For the simplest logistics, book in Downtown Burlington so you can walk to the start. If you want a quieter base, look to residential rentals in the New North End or South Burlington, or browse larger family options through Lake.com. If the fun run reaches capacity, you can still enjoy the waterfront and watch marathon weekend preparations nearby. Good to know, this race is for children ages 4 to 14, and pets are generally discouraged near the course for safety.