40th SPAR Budapest Marathon Festival 2025: Historic Running Celebration in Hungary’s Capital
Experience Budapest’s Biggest Running Festival
Join thousands of runners from over 100 countries for the milestone 40th anniversary of the SPAR Budapest Marathon Festival. This historic celebration promises to be the largest marathon event in Hungarian history, with record-breaking participation expected across multiple race distances.
Event Details
Event Date: October 11-12, 2025
Location: Pázmány Péter Promenade, ELTE Lágymányosi Campus, Budapest
Duration: 2 days
What Makes This Marathon Special
The SPAR Budapest Marathon offers Europe’s most scenic urban running experience. The 42.2-kilometer route takes participants on an unforgettable journey through Budapest’s UNESCO World Heritage sites, crossing iconic bridges including the Chain Bridge and Liberty Bridge while showcasing breathtaking Danube River panoramas.
Runners will pass landmark attractions such as the Hungarian Parliament, Gellért Hill, Margaret Island’s tranquil parks, and the historic Castle District. The route essentially serves as a moving sightseeing tour, combining athletic achievement with cultural discovery.
Race Options for Everyone
The festival features 18 different distances and 16 starting times, ensuring every fitness level can participate:
- Full Marathon (42.2 km)
- Half Marathon (21.1 km)
- 30km, 10km, and 5km races
- Family relay races
- Corporate team competitions
- Children’s runs
- Community walks
Why Attend
Historic Milestone: Celebrate four decades of Hungary’s premier running event
Scenic Route: Run through world heritage sites and along the beautiful Danube
International Atmosphere: Meet runners from 100+ countries
Tourist-Friendly: Perfect opportunity to explore Budapest’s attractions
All Levels Welcome: From beginners to marathon veterans
Registration & Practical Information
With participation numbers expected to exceed 35,000 people across all events, early registration is highly recommended. The festival serves as both a competitive athletic event and a celebration of community, health, and Budapest’s incredible architecture.
The main race headquarters will feature SPAR container stores offering running supplies, refreshments, sandwiches, energy bars, and regional specialty products.
Perfect for Visitors
International participants often extend their Budapest stay to explore the city’s famous thermal baths, restaurants, and cultural attractions. The marathon weekend provides an ideal introduction to Hungarian capital’s rich history and vibrant modern culture.
Don’t miss this historic 40th anniversary celebration that puts Budapest on the map as one of Europe’s premier marathon destinations!
Visit the official SPAR Budapest Marathon website for complete race information and online registration.