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Join the 2025 NYC Marathon Watch Party & Prediction Run at Mt. Holiday, Traverse City, for a no-tech 5K trail run and lively marathon viewing party with brunch, prizes, and community spirit. Discover why this unique event draws runners and fans each fall.
Join the 2025 NYC Marathon Watch Party & Prediction Run at Mt. Holiday, Traverse City, for a no-tech 5K trail run and lively marathon viewing party with brunch, prizes, and community spirit. Discover why this unique event draws runners and fans each fall.
Book with Mt. Holiday
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Operated by Mt. Holiday · Traverse City, Michigan
Every November, Mt. Holiday in Traverse City, Michigan, shifts into high gear to celebrate the spirit of running with its unique NYC Marathon Watch Party & Prediction Run. This event blends an invigorating 5K trail run with a lively marathon viewing party, creating an engaging community experience that appeals to locals and visitors alike. Set against the backdrop of northern Michigan’s rolling hills and vibrant fall colors, Mt. Holiday offers the perfect stage for runners to test their instincts without the distractions of gadgets or pacing devices. The challenge? Predict your finish time before the race and race against your own estimate — the winner isn’t the fastest on the trails but the one who nails their prediction most accurately.
Mt. Holiday is renowned for its seasoned trail network, featuring scenic, moderately hilly terrain that winds through mixed hardwood forests and open glades. The trails provide a true Michigan running experience, with craggy rock outcrops and the crisp autumn air heightening the atmosphere. Beyond the run, the event shifts indoors to the Mt. Holiday Lodge, a hub of warmth and camaraderie where guests can enjoy a well-earned brunch buffet curated by the T-Bar & Grill. Sip on mimosas or the signature “NYC Prediction Cocktail” as you watch the world’s best marathoners tackle New York City’s iconic course live on multiple screens. The atmosphere is lively yet intimate, celebrating both elite athletes and passionate local runners.
What makes Mt. Holiday’s watch party distinctive is the blend of competition, community, and celebration. Prizes such as New Balance gear, race entries, and season passes reward quick-witted runners who master the prediction challenge, while the chance to connect with fellow running enthusiasts amplifies the event’s appeal. Traverse City’s rich outdoor culture and accessible wilderness add depth, making this gathering a vital annual highlight in the regional running calendar. Whether you’re a casual jogger or a competitive racer, this event showcases the joy of running without the pressure of time chips or GPS watches.
With ample parking, a welcoming family-friendly environment (minimum age 3), and a festive vibe that lingers well past the brunch hours, the 2025 NYC Marathon Watch Party & Prediction Run at Mt. Holiday is a must for anyone visiting northern Michigan in early November. It captures the pulse of outdoor adventure combined with the thrills of marathon day, right here in Traverse City’s Adirondack-inspired terrain.
moderate.
3–5 hours.
Suitable for runners comfortable with hilly terrain and a 5K distance; moderate fitness recommended due to trail elevation changes.
No, the run is intentionally phone- and watch-free to encourage running by feel and accurate prediction.
The event takes place rain or shine; trails may be muddy, so wear appropriate footwear.
Children aged 3 and up can participate or attend, but the run and watch party atmosphere suits families with older kids.
Yes, the brunch buffet and cash bar with mimosas and specialty cocktails are available inside the lodge.
Absolutely! You can attend the marathon watch party and brunch without joining the run.
Predictions must be submitted at check-in inside Mt. Holiday Cafe prior to the 7:00 AM run start.
Mt. Holiday has been a community hub for outdoor recreation since the 1940s, evolving from a small ski hill to a multi-sport destination.
Mt. Holiday maintains trail stewardship programs to preserve natural habitats and minimize erosion across its network.
Mt. Holiday is a community-focused outdoor recreation destination in Northern Michigan offering skiing, snowboarding, zipline tours, lift tickets, and season passes. The venue provides a mix of winter sport access and year-round adventure experiences designed for families, beginner and intermediate riders, and local outdoor enthusiasts. The zipline offering features an outdoor canopy tour that reaches speeds of 25–30 mph and includes moderate hiking, making it accessible to a wide range of ages and fitness levels. Seasonal options include Family All‑Access and Individual All‑Access Season Passes, a Mid‑Week Season Pass (Tuesday–Friday) for weekday enthusiasts, and both Weekday and Weekend lift tickets for single-day visits. A unique community event is the 2025 NYC Marathon Watch Party & Prediction Run — a social 5K trail run, brunch, and watch party designed to bring local runners together. Mt. Holiday emphasizes affordability, family-friendly programming, and a welcoming mountain atmosphere. Safety, clear ticketing options, and organized events contribute to a trustworthy guest experience. The mix of lift-served winter slopes, accessible pass options, and an adventurous zipline tour makes Mt. Holiday a reliable choice for visitors seeking outdoor recreation in Northern Michigan. Community involvement and a variety of access levels ensure visitors can plan single-day visits or commit to a full season of outdoor activity.
Book with Mt. Holiday