Are you a runner?  Do you enjoy learning about other cultures? Would you want to compete in an October marathon in Dresden, Germany?

If you answered ‘yes’ to all three questions, then you may be a good candidate for our 2026 marathon exchange program.

The application for our popular marathon program is now available.

5 runners from Columbus will be chosen to travel to Dresden, Germany, to compete in the Dresden Marathon in October 2026. Runners will stay with a local host in Germany and receive an authentic, local experience.

We are looking for people who can be good representatives of Columbus and are willing to form friendships with our colleagues in Germany.

Dresden Marathon Date: Sunday, October 25, 2026

Travel Dates: Wednesday, October 21 through Tuesday, October 27

To apply for the program: Complete the application form by May 25th.

Consider applying if:

• You are a Central Ohio resident
• You are a prior participant in Columbus Marathon & ½ Marathon
• You have interest in travel and other cultures, especially German culture
• You are willing to join Dresden Sister City and support the program in the future years
• Have a valid passport (through at least May 2027)
• Can pay for your airfare ($1,000 – $1,500 or more)

What you’ll receive as part of the program:

• Free entry to the Dresden race category of your choice
• Lodging with a host family in Dresden for 5 nights
• A program put together by the local hosting committee
• Transportation in Dresden on race weekend
• Meeting with a Dresden City official
• Meeting in Dresden with marathon ambassadors from other sister cities/countries
• An enthusiastic group of program alumni who can offer advice as you plan your trip
• A travel stipend
• The experience of a lifetime! 

After his 2025 trip to the Dresden Marathon, Columbus resident Josh Gandee wrote an essay documenting his experience. His personal essay highlights the life-changing impact of the marathon program.

Read Josh’s essay here

To learn more about the Columbus runners who represented Columbus in Dresden in 2025, visit our 2025 marathon page.

See the Highlights: Watch the official Dresden Marathon 2025 highlight video to get a feel for the race experience in Dresden.

Host a Runner from Dresden in Columbus

We are also in need of 5 individuals or families in Columbus to host a visiting runner from Dresden in October. Hosts serve as ambassadors for Columbus and provide a visitor a safe place to stay during his or her time in Columbus.

Hosting is a rewarding experience that provides the opportunity to learn more about Germany and build a friendship with a runner from Dresden.

For more information about hosting, email Dorit and Sue at  dresdensistercity@gmail.com