Horster Löwenlauf

A Young Neighbourhood Run for Horst

The Horster Löwenlauf is a young running event in Gelsenkirchen-Horst – 2026 will only see the second edition. The initiator is Zukunft Horst, an initiative dedicated to urban development and community strengthening in this former mining district. The run combines the typical functions of a neighbourhood run: a shared sporting experience, a visible presence in the district, and a social meeting point for families and clubs.

Gelsenkirchen-Horst – A District with History

Horst is one of the northwestern districts of Gelsenkirchen, characterized by mining and the former Zeche Nordstern – now the site of Nordsternpark, one of NRW's most beautiful industrial parks. The district has undergone significant transformation in recent years: old industrial areas are being revitalized, new residential areas are emerging, and cultural initiatives like Zukunft Horst are actively involved in the district.

Family Run for the Whole Neighbourhood

The Löwenlauf is explicitly designed as a family-oriented event. Instead of a half-marathon with ambitious time goals, the focus is on participation, exercise, and socialising. The route distances are chosen so that children and seniors can also participate. Typically, there are children's runs of 500m or 1km, main runs of 5km, and a walking route for the older generation.

Start at 10:00 AM, Expected End Around 2:00 PM

The run begins on Sunday, September 20, 2026, at 10:00 AM. The different distances start at staggered times, so the entire event is concluded around 2:00 PM. With award ceremonies, a communal lunch, and a neighbourhood café, the day becomes a community event.

Zukunft Horst – The Initiative Behind the Run

The initiative Zukunft Horst sees itself as a civic actor actively shaping the district. In addition to the Löwenlauf, Zukunft Horst organizes neighbourhood festivals, advisory services for citizens, and cultural and sports events. All dates can be viewed via the Tockify calendar portal.

Running Culture in NRW – Horst is Part of a Trend

Neighbourhood runs have been a growing trend in NRW for years. The Mudwalk Duisburg, the Düsseldorfer Stadtlauf, the Kölner Marathon, and numerous smaller runs form a dense network. The Horster Löwenlauf joins this network, bringing the format to the neighbourhood level – a counterpoint to big-city marathon culture, which is particularly identity-forming in Gelsenkirchen.

Travel and Registration

Registration is via the initiative's website and Zukunft Horst's Tockify portal. Entry fees are moderate and are used to refinance the run. Travel to Gelsenkirchen-Horst by S-Bahn S2 or regional train, then bus to the district. By car via A2 (exit Gelsenkirchen-Buer) or A42.