To honor 20 years of the Denver Colfax Marathon, race officials are planning for a change of pace in the half and full marathon courses in May.

On May 15-17, more than 25,000 athletes are expected to race across the Mile High City in the 26.2-mile race, the half marathon and relays. It is the largest marathon in the Rocky Mountain Region.

In its 20th year, race organizers said they are keeping the same course, but plan for “WOW at Every Mile” stations each featuring “unexpected surprises.”

Forty different “attractions” are planned for each of the full and half marathons. Each attraction offers entertainment from across Colorado, according to race officials.

“Runners will be treated to something extraordinary at every mile to make them pause and say, ‘Wow!’,” Denver Colfax Marathon officials said in a news release announcing the change.

“‘WOW at Every Mile’ will create an unbeatable experience for each runner,” according to the news release. “From vibrant attractions and unexpected surprises to high-energy celebrations, every stretch of the course will be a sensory celebration.”

The race already features many course-side dancers with costumes, goofy signs and themed aid stations.

“We’re transforming every mile into a feeling of fun and excitement,” Denver Colfax Marathon CEO Andrea Dowdy said in a statement. 

“Our course has always delivered phenomenal experiences, and this year, we’re taking it to the next level,” she said. “Each mile through the city will be a celebration — giving runners a reason to smile, a new burst of energy and more motivation to keep going towards their goal.”

To make the vision come alive, race organizers are asking local performers to “own a mile of the racecourse.”

“Participants are encouraged to bring their mile to life — creating a vibrant, supportive, and unforgettable experience for runners as they pass through,” race organizers said.

Organizers ask interested acts to reach out to wally@runcolfax.org.

Runners looking to register for Denver Colfax Marathon races can purchase their entries online.