Grandma's Marathon weekend officially begins Thursday afternoon at 4:00 p.m. when the doors open for the Essentia Health Fitness Expo.

The two-day event, which is free to attend, is open Thursday, June 14 from 4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. and Friday, June 15 from 10:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. inside the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center arena.

The Essential Health Fitness Expos features exhibitors showcasing the latest products and services available in the athletic industry. You'll also be able to purchase official 2018 Grandma's Marathon merchandise.

If training for Grandma's Marathon races has inspired you to continue to run, you'll find representatives from other races on hand.

The expo is also where participants registered in the 42nd annual Grandma’s Marathon, the 28th annual Garry Bjorklund Half Marathon, and the 25th annual William A. Irvin 5K can pick up their race packets.

If you're a local runner, I recommend picking up your packet Thursday to avoid the rush of runners and visitors that will be arriving on Friday.  Once inside the expo, just head to Paulucci Hall to get your packet. All runner packets will be available until 11:00 p.m. Friday night.

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