Preparing for the Las Vegas Rock ‘n’ Roll Running Races

On November 16-17, the 11th Annual Rock ‘n’ Roll Las Vegas Marathon & Half Marathon take runners through Las Vegas at night. This nighttime race is like no other – from the spectacular views of the Strip to getting married during the race at the Run Thru Wedding to a post-race celebration with Kesha. Read below to learn how to prepare for the race, whether you’re running or just avoiding the road closures.

Rock ‘n’ Roll Las Vegas Running Races

Marathon

The Rock ‘n’ Roll Las Vegas marathon is an extremely unique opportunity for marathoners of all backgrounds. With the race starting just as the sun is setting, the city comes to life with lights shining like you’ve never seen before. Even when the course moves off of the Strip, music and lights (not to mention a very flat and fast course) will keep you moving one foot in front of the other, all the way back to the epic mid-Strip finish line. 

Half Marathon

The Las Vegas half marathon is the perfect distance to embrace your inner rock star. With most of the course run on Las Vegas Blvd, those 13.1 miles will fly by under the bright neon lights with spectators screaming and music pumping – this is truly unlike anything you have experienced before.

10k

Rock ‘n’ Roll Las Vegas 10K kicks off the races on Sunday, starting on Las Vegas Blvd at the Festival Grounds Las Vegas. Participants will head north on the Strip, turn around in downtown Las Vegas, and head for the finish line directly in front of the Mirage volcano.

5k

Get ready for the newest distance and the biggest year yet for the Las Vegas Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon at the Saturday 5K. This evening 5K provides the perfect setting for friends and family to be part of the Rock ‘n’ Roll weekend AND an amazing course with bright lights, music, and more. Did we mention you’ll be celebrating at the 5K finish line at the exclusive concert featuring Kesha?

Source: Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon Series

Las Vegas Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon Weekend

Health & Wellness Expo

Rock ‘n’ Roll Las Vegas features a three-day Health & Wellness Expo prior to the race, which all participants must visit to pick up their race packets. Free and open to the public, this expo features the latest in running technologies, fitness apparel, health & nutrition information and interactive displays.

Entertainment

• Saturday Night Concert: This year’s Las Vegas Rock ‘n’ Roll entertainment has upped the stakes with the Saturday night concert featuring Kesha. This year, the concert has been moved to Saturday night so participants of every distance can party all night with one of their biggest acts yet.
• Run Thru Wedding: Couples will tie the knot or renew their vows in front of thousands of runners and witnesses, in front of the world famous Welcome to Las Vegas sign! This is the ultimate chance to proclaim your love in an unforgettable experience. Only in Vegas!
• On-Course Entertainment: As if shutting down Las Vegas Blvd. wasn’t enough, your journey down The Strip includes music every mile and non-stop entertainment. Clear that phone storage, you’ll be in full selfie mode.
• Pre-Race Parties: Rock ‘n’ Roll runners and their guests have access to the top nightclubs in Vegas. No wait and no cover – just flash your runner perks wristband and enjoy free entry and VIP access.
• The Ice Rink at The Cosmopolitan: The Ice Rink at The Cosmopolitan is the official after party of the Rock & Roll Marathon. Runners and their families can celebrate their accomplishments with breathtaking views of The Strip, nourishing food and seasonal cocktails and beverages. All runners will receive a complimentary adult beverage with their bib and all family and friends will enjoy complimentary hot chocolate and ice skating.

Road Closures

Most road closures and detours will be in effect between the hours of 2:30 pm and 11:00 pm on Sunday, November 11. A few portions of Las Vegas Blvd will be closed earlier or reopened later due to start line set-up/finish line set-up and breakdown. Visit the Rock ‘n’ Roll website for more detailed road closure updates and a Las Vegas road closure map.

Source: Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon Series

Tips for Running a Marathon in Las Vegas

1. Get Plenty of Rest: It’s easy to stay out all night in Las Vegas, but be sure to get ample sleep the nights leading up to your race. Have some fun, but don’t forget to let your body have some downtime before hitting the course.
2. Have a Race-Day Kit: Put together a pack of items you might need during or after the race, such as an anti-chafe stick, a few sheets of toilet paper, bandages, safety pins, hair ties, wet wipes, deodorant, and snacks.
3. Dress Appropriately: Layer clothes that you can remove or put on depending on how you feel, and be sure to wear running shoes that you are comfortable wearing. Don’t try running in new shoes that aren’t broken in.
4. Eat Well & Stay Hydrated: Just like resting, be sure to save the Las Vegas indulgence for post-race. Avoid drinking alcohol the night before, drink plenty of water with electrolytes, and eat foods rich in nutrients for a healthy run.
5. Pace Yourself: Don’t push yourself too hard and end up with a burnout. Start off the race slower and increase speed when you feel comfortable, and don’t be afraid to slow down if needed.
6. Enjoy the Finish Line: One of the best parts of the Las Vegas Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon is the finish line! Ease your way out of the run by winding down at the post-race events filled with entertainment, food, and drink.

Las Vegas running races are the ultimate way to stay healthy in Vegas while experiencing all it has to offer. Whether you’re running the Las Vegas Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon, are supporting a runner, or are simply in town the same weekend, ust this guide to ensure you have the best weekend in Vegas. And don’t forget to book a room at the Golden Gate Hotel Las Vegas for the perfect to relax before the race then restore and celebrate after the finish line has been crossed.