Brooklyn Half Marathon Set For Saturday Kick-Off At Prospect Park

BROOKLYN, NY — Over 26,000 runners will hit Brooklyn's streets Saturday for the Brooklyn Half Marathon, which will have athletes "partying all the way" from Prospect Park to the Coney Island Boardwalk.

The race is expected to be the largest in the U.S. this year so far, with a "party-like atmosphere" including cover bands, DJs and cheer groups, according to the New York Road Runners.

Here's everything you need to know about Saturday's massive race:

The Race

Saturday's 13.1-mile trek will kick off at 7 a.m. with a second wave of runners taking off at 7:45 a.m. Most festivities are scheduled to finish up by 3 p.m. Saturday.

Starting at the Brooklyn Museum, runners will zip down Washington Avenue and through multiple loops in Prospect Park, where cheering, water and entertainment points will be stationed.

Runners will take Ocean Parkway out of the park and all the way to the Coney Island Boardwalk.

Viewing points and entertainment will be set up every couple of miles, including near Ditmas Avenue, Avenue J, Avenue P, Avenue U, Neptune Avenue and Surf Avenue.

Loved ones and enthusiasts can track runners using the NYRR Racing app and website.

If you don't know anyone running, stop by to catch former NFL player Tiki Barber, YouTube star Casey Neistat or actress Ellie Kemper race.

Runners will split a major pool of prizes — the first-place winner for each gender category will win a $2,000 prize, followed by $1,000 for the runner up, $500 for third, $200 for fourth and $100 for fifth.

Record-breaking winners will add a $100 bonus to their pot.

And there's a little something carved out for locals, too — the top Brooklynite to place in each gender category will receive a $500 prize.

Road Closures

Road closures and restricted parking will last from Thursday through Saturday afternoon across Brooklyn.

For The Non-Runners

Early Saturday morning, New Balance will host a pre-party at Pier 2 in Brooklyn Bridge Park. After the race, runners and attendees will dance and win prices at Maimonides Park.

Running-inspired events will be scattered throughout the week, including a 3-mile trash-pick-up jog Thursday and a book signing Friday with Olympian Des Linden.

For kids, a shorter race will run Saturday for ages 8 to 18 on the boardwalk spanning 1.5 kilometers.

Need new gear for your race? Marathon sponsor New Balance released a new line of merch inspired by the Brooklyn Half, including graphic tanks and tees, jackets and socks ranging from $16 to $114 for a running jacket.