Flying Pig Marathon Generates $45.9 Million in Economic Impact for Greater Cincinnati
CINCINNATI, OH (November 13, 2025) — The 2025 Flying Pig Marathon, produced by Pig Works, delivered an estimated $45.9 million in total economic impact for the Cincinnati region, according to a new report from the Center for Research and Data at the Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber.
The study found that the annual race weekend, now in its 27th year, supported 671 local jobs and generated $15.2 million in earnings for residents across the region. The 2025 event drew more than 51,000 total participants, including nearly 17,000 runners from outside Greater Cincinnati, making it one of the largest weekends for tourism and hospitality in the region.
“Each spring, the Flying Pig brings our community together in a way few events can by inspiring health, connection, and local pride while fueling our regional economy,” said Doug Olberding, President & CEO of Pig Works. “This report confirms what we see every year: the Pig is more than a race. It’s a celebration that drives real economic and social impact across Greater Cincinnati.”
The Chamber’s analysis, conducted with data from over 3,000 participant surveys by Burke, Inc., highlights how the Flying Pig energizes local businesses and attracts national attention. Spending by nonlocal participants totaled nearly $16 million, covering hotel stays, dining, transportation, and retail. Local participants contributed an additional $8.2 million in spending that stayed in the region instead of going to other race destinations.
“Cincinnati deserves the center stage when it comes to public events, and the Pig is a one-of-a-kind opportunity to bring people together in the heart of our urban core,” said Cincinnati Mayor Aftab Pureval. “From our small businesses to our hospitality sector, the Flying Pig showcases what makes the Queen City so special.”
Recognized by USA Today as the #1 Marathon in the United States, the Flying Pig has become a nationally celebrated symbol of community spirit. Over its 25-year history, Pig Works has grown to include additional events such as the Queen Bee Half Marathon, TQL Beer Series, and FCC3, as well as youth and accessibility initiatives like PigAbilities and the Pig Works Community Scholars Program, which awards 24 $20,000 scholarships annually.
Earlier this year, the Flying Pig Marathon was honored nationally as a 2025 Champion of Economic Impact in Sports Tourism by Sports Destination Management magazine joining four other major sporting events. Read Now: Article on Champions of Economic Impact
The full 2025 Economic Impact of the Cincinnati Flying Pig Marathon Report is available by request.
About Pig Works
Pig Works is a nonprofit organization that produces community-driven events promoting health, wellness, and civic pride. Its portfolio includes the Flying Pig Marathon, Queen Bee Half Marathon, TQL Beer Series, and FCC3, along with youth and inclusion programs that engage tens of thousands of participants each year.