There are many exciting races in Iceland both big and small. These 10 most popular running events in Iceland can all be wholeheartedly recommended.
1. Reykjavik Marathon – 10,049 finishers
The Reykjavik Marathon in August is by far the biggest running event in Iceland. In addition to the timed distances there is a 3K fun run and a very popular kids run.
10K: 6,134
Half marathon: 2,578
Marathon: 1,324
Wheelchair: 13
2. Midnight Sun Run – 2,398 finishers
This midnight race is held at summer solstice, celebrating Iceland’s bright summer nights.
5K: 1,020
10K: 769
Half marathon: 609
3. IR‘s New Years Eve Run – 1,318 finishers
Fun costumes are everywhere as runners say goodbye to the old year and celebrate the new in ÍR’s New Year’s Eve race in Reykjavik, held on the 31st of December. The course is fast and scenic but wind, ice or snow might make that PB difficult to reach.
4. Fossvogur Race – 532 finishers
Great organization, beautiful running paths and a determination to put on a top race are the keys to why this race is one of the best running events in Iceland. The course is in Fossvogur valley which is one of Reykjavik’s most popular running areas. There is both a 5K race and a 10K.
5. Laugavegur Ultra Marathon – 506 finishers
The Laugavegur Ultra is the undisputed king of Icelandic trail races. It’s the biggest and best known trail and ultra race in the country and draws many participants every year from abroad. It’s an experience of a lifetime.
6. IR‘s Cross Country Race – 491 finishers
The 5K IR‘s Cross Country Race is the oldest continuous sporting event in Iceland and is traditionally the start of the racing season. The race is held on the first day of summer in April, a public holiday in Iceland, but the temperature is far from being warm.
7. Powerade November – 439 finishers
This very popular 10K winter race series, held once a month from October to March, draws the crowds no matter how bad the weather is. The race is held in all kinds of weather and in all kinds of conditions. The October edition had almost as many runners but we decided to count them only once!
8. Hvítasunnuhlaup Hauka (Pentecost Trail Race) – 407 finishers
This trail race is held in the wilderness next to Hafnarfjörður, a suburb of Reykjavik. It’s a very nice and well organized event with exceptionally cheerful staff. It has three distances on offer: 14 km, 17.5 km and 22 km.
9. Icelandair Airport Run – 401 finishers
The 7K Icelandair Airport Run was first held in 1995 and is always one of the most popular ones, with a very pretty, fast and flat course. The race is held in May and the course takes you around the domestic airport in Reykjavik.
10. Adidas Boost 10K – 394 finishers.
This is a 10K on one of the most beautiful areas of Reykjavik, the Elliðaárdalur valley. After the race there are generous refreshments!
There are many other great races, so remember to not only look at the size of the race. Many of the races we like best are small in numbers but big in style and character!
