41st SPAR Budapest Marathon Festival 2026 – The Celebration of Running
Experience the Ultimate Running Festival in Budapest
If you’re looking for an unforgettable running event in one of Europe’s most beautiful cities, the 41st SPAR Budapest Marathon Festival is the perfect choice. Held on October 10–11, 2026 (Saturday–Sunday), this two-day celebration of sport brings tens of thousands of runners and spectators together in the heart of Hungary’s capital.
Whether you’re training for your first marathon or just want to soak in the infectious festival energy, this event has a challenge for everyone. From 500 meters to the full 42.2-kilometer marathon, the SPAR Budapest Marathon Festival offers races for all ages and fitness levels — plus, you’ll run past some of Budapest’s most stunning World Heritage landmarks along the way.
A Weekend Where the City Belongs to the Runners
The SPAR Budapest Marathon isn’t just a race — it’s Hungary’s largest running and recreational sports event, attracting tens of thousands of participants from more than 100 countries. The course winds through the city’s most iconic sites, offering breathtaking views of the Danube River, Buda Castle, and the Parliament Building, all under the crisp autumn sky.
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Throughout the route, live bands, cheering spectators, and vibrant music points create an exhilarating atmosphere. Whether you’re sprinting across the Chain Bridge or taking a selfie near Heroes’ Square, every moment feels like a celebration of endurance and joy.
Saturday: Fun, Family, and Shorter Distances
Saturday kicks off the festival with shorter races and family-friendly events — perfect for those who want to enjoy the spirit of the marathon without tackling the longer distances.
- SPAR 10 km – Start time: 9:00
- SPAR MiniMarathon 5 km – Start time: 10:45
- FODISZ Equal Opportunity Run (500 m) – Start time: 15:15
- Nestlé Family Run (1 km) – Start time: 15:40
- Hervis Relay (4×2 km) – Start time: 16:15
Saturday’s program is all about fun, participation, and inclusivity — ideal for families, first-timers, and anyone who simply wants to enjoy the festival vibes.
Sunday: The Main Event – The Marathon Day
Sunday is when the long-distance runners take center stage. The classic SPAR Budapest Marathon (42.2 km) offers individual, pair, and four-member relay options, alongside the popular SPAR 30 km race for those not yet ready to take on the full marathon.
- SPAR Budapest Marathon – 42.2 km individual race – Start: 9:00
- SPAR Budapest Marathon Relay for 2 – Start: 9:00
- SPAR Marathon Relay for 4 – Start: 9:00
- SPAR 30 km – Start: 9:40–11:05
This main race is a bucket-list experience for marathoners. Fast, scenic, and rich in atmosphere, it’s designed for both first-time finishers and those chasing a new personal record. Every participant receives a finisher’s medal and race T-shirt — lasting mementos of an incredible achievement.
Why You’ll Love It
- Run along UNESCO World Heritage sites and see Budapest from a unique perspective.
- Be part of an international running community with participants from dozens of countries.
- Enjoy non-stop entertainment and cheering stations along the course.
- Choose from 18 race distances over two days — there’s something for every level.
- Take home a special medal and T-shirt to remember your big day.
Event Details
Dates: October 10–11, 2026 (Saturday–Sunday)
Location: Central Budapest, starting from Pázmány Péter sétány
Distances: From 500 m to 42.2 km (individual, relay, and family events)
Registration: Open now – discounted entry available until January 12, 2026
Register and learn more: marathon.runinbudapest.com
A Marathon to Remember
The SPAR Budapest Marathon Festival is more than a running event — it’s a two-day celebration of fitness, friendship, and the vibrant beauty of Budapest. Whether you’re racing solo, running as part of a team, or cheering from the sidelines, you’ll feel the city’s energy with every step.
Come for the challenge, stay for the experience — and make your 2026 Budapest adventure truly unforgettable.
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