PolarNight Marathon 2025

• Run under the polar night darkness, with a chance to see the Northern Lights.
• Choose from 42km, 21km, 10km, or 5km distances.
• Torch-lit course enhances the Arctic running experience.
• Start and finish at Stortorget, Tromsø; bring your own lighting.
• Energy drinks available every 5km; AIMS-certified race.

The PolarNight Marathon in Tromsø, Norway, offers an extraordinary running experience unlike any other. Held during the Polar Night in early January, this event invites runners to embrace the Arctic's enchanting darkness, with the chance to run under the mesmerizing Northern Lights. Participants can choose from four distances: the full marathon, half marathon, 10 km, or 5 km, each featuring a torch-lit course that adds to the magical ambiance. Drawing around 2,000 international runners, the marathon fosters a vibrant and diverse community. With courses certified by the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS), participants can be assured of a professionally managed event. Whether you're chasing a personal best or simply seeking a unique adventure, the PolarNight Marathon promises an unforgettable journey through Norway's winter wonderland.

Expect temperatures around 21-29°F (-6 to -2°C), with potential for significant snowfall during the PolarNight Marathon in Tromsø, Norway. The absence of daylight offers a unique running experience under the polar night sky, possibly illuminated by the aurora borealis. Prepare for moderate winds and icy tracks, where spikes are advisable for better traction.

The PolarNight Marathon in Tromsø, Norway, offers runners an extraordinary Arctic adventure. This race unfolds on snow-covered roads and footpaths, presenting a flat and fast terrain that's perfect for those seeking speed without the hassle of elevation changes. Starting and finishing on Tromsø's main street, Storgata, the course takes you out to the airport area before looping back to the heart of the city. Along the way, the path is often illuminated by burning torches, creating a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere.

Running during the Polar Night, this marathon is uniquely set in complete darkness, despite taking place in the middle of the day. This adds an intriguing challenge and the potential to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights. Though the course is well-marked, with kilometer signs every five kilometers and countdown markers for the final stretch, runners must brace for the cold and possibly snowy conditions. The Arctic weather, coupled with limited course support and fewer spectators, demands self-sufficiency and resilience, making the PolarNight Marathon an unforgettable test of endurance and spirit.

Visiting Tromsø, Norway for the Polar Night Half Marathon is an opportunity to immerse yourself in both cultural and natural wonders. The city, renowned for its vibrant nightlife and café culture, offers a cozy atmosphere perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. Don't miss the chance to witness the northern lights, a breathtaking spectacle visible from Tromsø's skies, or engage in exhilarating winter activities like skiing and dog sledding.

While in Tromsø, explore the Arctic Cathedral, an architectural gem, and delve into the region's history at the Polar Museum. The Northern Norway Art Museum provides a glimpse into the local art scene, while the Polaria aquarium offers interactive exhibits on Arctic wildlife. For those seeking a cultural experience, the Northern Lights Festival in January and February showcases music and art, while the Hålogaland Theatre presents a variety of performances.

Make sure to book accommodations early, as January is peak season. The compact city is easy to navigate on foot or by public transport, though renting a car can be beneficial for exploring the surrounding areas. With these insights, your visit to Tromsø promises to be both enriching and unforgettable.