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The Flying Pig Marathon isn’t just a race — it’s a tradition, a homecoming, and for thousands of runners each spring, it’s the most exciting weekend in Greater Cincinnati. And after picking up my race packet today at the Northern Kentucky Convention Center, I can confirm: the Pig is back, and it’s bigger than ever.
From free samples to packed vendor halls and commemorative gear galore, the energy inside the convention center was electric. There were literally thousands of people filtering through the space — not just runners, but family members, volunteers, and local spectators eager to experience the weekend kickoff.
The Race Begins with the Expo
Every registered participant in the Flying Pig Marathon must pick up their race materials at the P&G Health & Fitness Expo — and it’s anything but routine. Held this year at the NKY Convention Center, the expo feels more like a festival than a logistical checkpoint.
As I moved through the space, I was greeted by enthusiastic volunteers, generous sponsors like Kroger and Procter & Gamble, and rows of vendors offering everything from electrolyte gummies to hand-crafted running hats. P&G’s booth was particularly active, giving away full-size product samples and engaging runners with games and wellness resources. Meanwhile, Kroger had hydration stations and branded swag — a clear reminder that this race is proudly local.
The Flying Pig isn’t just supported by Cincinnati brands — it’s a reflection of them.
What’s in the Virtual Race Bag?
Ahead of the weekend, runners were also given access to a Virtual Race Bag, loaded with discounts, coupons, and digital goodies. Offers included everything from CBD recovery tools to free drinks at local restaurants, plus promotions from UC Health, Skyline Chili, and the Cincinnati Zoo.
This digital perk might not get as much fanfare as the finish line, but it’s a great reminder that the Flying Pig Marathon is more than just race logistics — it’s an economic driver for the entire region.
A Weekend Built for Everyone
One of the reasons the Flying Pig Marathon stands out from other races is its inclusivity. From elite runners to first-timers, kids, walkers, and even costume-clad fun runners, the event is designed for every type of participant.
This weekend includes:
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The full 26.2-mile marathon
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A half marathon
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10K and 5K events
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A PigAbilities event for athletes with disabilities
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The “Flying Fur” run for dogs and their owners
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A kids’ fun run and family events
In other words, the Flying Pig isn’t just a test of endurance — it’s a festival of fitness and community spirit.
And the party doesn’t stop at the start line. The sidelines will be packed with local musicians, cheering squads, and themed hydration stations. Past years have featured everything from Elvis impersonators to bacon-themed water stops.
Cincinnati’s Signature Event
If you’re new to the city or unfamiliar with its traditions, it might seem odd that a major marathon has a pig as its mascot. But once you understand the history, it all makes sense.
Cincinnati was once known as “Porkopolis” — a reference to its 19th-century meatpacking industry, where pig butchering drove the local economy. The name was eventually embraced in jest, and today, the Flying Pig Marathon reclaims that legacy with pride and humor.
You’ll see it in the medals, the signage, the merch — even the mile markers feature flying pig cartoons with motivational puns.
But make no mistake: this event is serious business. It brings in millions in tourism revenue, raises funds for local charities, and showcases Cincinnati as a world-class city for active lifestyles.
According to the Flying Pig official site, more than 40,000 participants are expected across the weekend’s events. That includes runners from all 50 states and numerous countries. It’s become one of the top 20 marathons in the U.S., both in terms of size and reputation.
The Finish Line Means More
Crossing the finish line at the Flying Pig Marathon isn’t just about hitting a PR or collecting another medal. It’s about finishing something alongside thousands of others, in a city that shows up to support you.
Whether you’re running the full 26.2 or cheering from the sidewalk, there’s a sense that the Pig belongs to everyone. It’s a civic event — one of the few that draws so many different parts of Greater Cincinnati together for the same uplifting cause.
That spirit of community echoes what we’ve written about recently here at The Cincinnati Exchange — whether it’s Price Hill coming back through creativity or Northern Kentucky’s Ovation project creating new gathering places.
The Flying Pig belongs on that same list.
If you haven’t experienced Flying Pig Weekend, do it. Go down to the finish line. Volunteer at a water stop. Take your kids to the Piglet races. Or just stop by the expo and check out the scene like I did today.
There’s no better reminder that Cincinnati — and its people — know how to show up, cheer loud, and run far.
