New Year’s Marathon Zurich 2025

• Midnight Start: Race begins at midnight on New Year's Eve, amidst fireworks.
• Scenic Loop: 10.55km loop along the Limmat river on natural paths.
• Diverse Races: Options include marathon, half-marathon, quarter-marathon, relay, and kids' run.
• Venue & Facilities: Starts/finishes at Unterrohr sports hall, with amenities and festive atmosphere.
• Safety & Celebration: Safety checkpoints and post-race party with DJ, food, and drinks.

Kick off the new year with the New Year's Marathon Zurich, an exhilarating midnight race on January 1 in Zurich, Switzerland. This event is a unique opportunity to begin the year with a healthy stride under a sky lit by fireworks. Offering a variety of distances—including a full marathon, half marathon, quarter marathon, and a relay—this race caters to runners of all levels.

The course traces the picturesque waterfront of the River Limmat, providing a scenic backdrop to your run. As an AIMS and World Athletics-certified event, it's a chance to set personal bests and world best times. After crossing the finish line, join the festive celebration featuring a DJ, food, and drinks, transforming the marathon into a community party.

The New Year's Marathon Zurich also stands out for its affordability, boasting the lowest entry fee of any marathon in Switzerland. It's a family-friendly event, with a free kids run at 10 pm, ensuring everyone can partake in the excitement. Embrace this extraordinary race, where the thrill of running meets the joy of celebration.

For the New Year’s Marathon Zurich on January 1, expect temperatures ranging from 28-36°F (-2-2°C) with a chance of rain or snow. Anticipate relatively low humidity and light winds. Limited sunlight should be considered, as January averages just 2 hours of sunshine per day.

The Neujahrsmarathon Zürich presents a thrilling and memorable running experience, perfect for those seeking a unique challenge. Set against the backdrop of Zurich, Switzerland, the race begins and ends in the sports hall «Unterrohr» in Schlieren. Runners embark on a four-lap journey along the scenic Limmat River, each lap spanning 10.55 kilometers.

The course is predominantly natural terrain, with 90% of it on paths and the remainder on asphalt. Expect uneven surfaces with occasional potholes and puddles, particularly along the towpath. Despite the minor elevation gain of 19 meters per lap, the route is mostly flat, allowing runners to focus on pace and endurance.

Key landmarks include two bridges per lap and checkpoints marked by burning torches and neon clocks, adding to the night-time ambiance. Photographers capture these moments, ensuring runners have lasting memories of their midnight adventure.

Starting at midnight on January 1, the race offers a unique transition from New Year's Eve to New Year's Day. The course is unlit, so headlamps are essential, especially as the field thins in the later laps, creating a sense of solitude. With a five-hour time limit, participants need to start the final lap by 3:45 a.m., but there's flexibility to switch to shorter distances if needed.

Overall, the Neujahrsmarathon Zürich combines a festive atmosphere with the thrill of a night race, making it an unforgettable way to ring in the New Year.

Traveling to Zurich for the New Year's Marathon offers more than just the thrill of the race; it's a chance to immerse yourself in the city's rich cultural tapestry. Nestled by the Alps, Zurich is a perfect blend of natural beauty and urban sophistication.

Begin your visit with a scenic cruise on Lake Zurich, where you'll be treated to stunning views of both the city skyline and the majestic Alps. For a taste of history, wander through the charming streets of the Old Town (Altstadt) to discover landmarks like Lindenhof and St. Peter’s Church. If you're looking for breathtaking panoramas, take a train to Uetliberg, the city's highest point, ideal for hiking and even sledding in winter.

Shopping enthusiasts will find Bahnhofstrasse irresistible, offering a range of high-end boutiques and dining options. Don’t miss the Swiss National Museum for a deep dive into the country's history. Art lovers should head to Kunsthaus Zurich for its impressive collection, while sports fans can explore the interactive exhibits at the FIFA World Football Museum. Zurich's culinary scene is equally enticing, with Swiss fondue as a must-try at local spots like Chalet Züriberg.

Embrace Zurich's vibrant cultural scene by timing your visit with one of its many festivals, such as the Zurich Art Weekend or FOOD ZURICH. While English is widely spoken, learning a few German phrases can enhance your interactions. Remember, January can be chilly, so pack accordingly and enjoy the city's efficient public transport with a Swiss Travel Pass for seamless exploration. With its blend of athletic and cultural pursuits, Zurich promises an unforgettable experience.