08/30/2026
Word is getting around town but now is time to post the official announcement for 2026.
Marble Festival Road Race pauses in 2026 in JASPER, GA
— Organizers of the long-running Marble Festival Road Race have announced that the event will be placed on hold for 2026.
The race, sponsored by the Ladies of the Dorcas Circle of Jasper United Methodist Church, would have marked its 45th year. However, recent changes and plans affecting key areas of the traditional race route have made it difficult to safely and effectively host the event this year.
According to the race committee, the field that has historically served as the race’s finish line has been purchased by the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT), along with several main thoroughfares in the city. The resulting uncertainty surrounding road closures, potential construction, and changing road conditions has created significant challenges for planning this year’s race and especially the finish line.
“Given these circumstances, the committee felt it was best to take this year off. Organizers shared. “This pause will allow time to work through leadership changes, logistics, secure a new finish line location, and ensure a properly sanctioned route moving forward. Though we are saddened by the decision, we feel it is the best one we can make at this time to ensure a well balanced road race.
⭐️Jasper United Methodist Church expresses deep appreciation for the community’s decades of support.
Over the past 44 years, proceeds from the race have contributed to numerous charitable donations benefiting local causes and organizations in our community. “We wish we had a tally of the thousands of dollars that we have given to groups that especially give back to the women and children of our small town” The mission statement of our ladies circle is to be in service to women and children as Dorcas who our group is named for… (a strong woman in the Bible was always going about helping others in need)
“We are incredibly grateful for the love and generosity this community has shown,” organizers said. “Because of you, we have been able to give back in meaningful ways.”
