hella marathon nacht rostock

Running as the sun sets

The hella marathon nacht rostock is an evening run festival in the heart of the independent Hanseatic city of Rostock in the state of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. Start and finish are on the Haedge peninsula in the city harbour, one of the liveliest spots in the city. Instead of running in the morning, the race takes place in the evening – at sunset over the Warnow and into the night. In 2026, the event will be held for the 24th time.

Four distances for everyone

The programme offers four running distances for different performance levels. It kicks off with the approximately 1.5-kilometre school run in the late afternoon. This is followed by the full marathon of 42.195 kilometres, which partly leads through the Warnow tunnel, the »Rostocker 7« of approximately 7 kilometres, and the Inros-Lackner half marathon of 21.1 kilometres. Thus, everyone from running beginners to experienced marathon runners will find their suitable distance.

Maritime specialities

Race numbers are exclusively issued at the city harbour. A special feature is the journey for half marathon participants: they travel to the start by ferry, while the captain tells the history of the Warnow riverbank along the way. The drum group Tengu Daiko with Japanese drums accompanies the marathon start, providing an inspiring kick-off.

Festival atmosphere at the harbour

Around the start and finish on the Haedge peninsula, there is a festival atmosphere all evening. Spectators cheer on the runners along the course, and music and refreshments make the marathon night an experience for the whole family. The finish closes around 11:30 PM.

Getting there

Rostock city harbour is easily accessible by tram and bus from the city centre. By car via the A19 and the city ring road. Sections of the route will be closed during the event – travelling by public transport is recommended.