You don’t have to run 26.2 miles to enjoy this weekend’s PF Chang’s Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon in Downtown Phoenix.
The entire weekend will be a celebration of the Big Race–for distance runners, novice runners, never runners, et al–and much of the action will take place in our urban core.
It all starts Friday at 10 a.m. with the opening of the Arizona Health & Fitness Expo, which runs all day Friday and Saturday at Phoenix Convention Center.
For two days, over 60 exhibitors will offer free samples, showcase the latest in running gear, sports apparel, health and nutritional information, and much more.
Pick up some last-minute race essentials before race day and be sure to visit the Brooks Official Merchandise Store. All runners must visit the expo to pick up their race number, swag bag and t-shirt.
Friday evening CityScape is hosting a pre-race party featuring live music from headliner Fitz & the Tantrums and guests Jeordie & The Mixology Project.
Gates open at 5 p.m. with Jeordie & The Mixology going on at 5:30 and Fitz & The Tantrums performing around 7:15 p.m.
Chloe’s Corner (coming soon to the space formerly occupied by Oakville Grocery) will be on hand to help runners carb load and beer will be available for purchase on the plaza. Tickets are $19, or $13.10 when you use promo code RUNNER.  Buy your concert tickets here.
On Sunday the marathon starts from CityScape at 7:30.
There is a lot of activity happening in Downtown Phoenix this holiday weekend. Here’s a rundown of various street closures:

Supercross Fan Fest
9 a.m. Friday Jan. 13 until 6 a.m. Sunday Jan. 15
Jefferson from 3rd Street east to the entrance/exit of the Plaza East Garage
4th Street from Jefferson south to the entrance/exit of the Jefferson Streeet
5th Street from Jefferson north to the entrance/exit to the docks behind Phoenix Convention Center South
PF Chang’s Rock n’ Roll Marathon
9 a.m. Friday Jan. 13 until Midnight Friday Jan. 13
Central from Washington to Jefferson
Sunday Jan. 15
Washington from 2nd Street to 1st Avenue 4 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.
Washington from 1st Avenue to 7th Avenue 6:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m.
Central from Washington to Jefferson 6 a.m. to Noon
MLK Day
9 a.m. Monday Jan. 16
Rolling Closures for the Dr. Martin Luther King Day March will be as follows:
Begins at Pilgrims Rest Church
15th Street and Washington, west on Washington
North at 5th Street where the group will proceed to Moreland
West to 3rd Street