Midnight Run Iceland 2022
With a convenient starting point and various different distances on offer, runners of every level will enjoy this incredible experience. Join hundreds of other runners in this amazing Icelandic running festival - but first, learn a bit about the run below!
The Midnight Sun Run is a popular running festival in Iceland, perhaps the second most famous running event in the country after the Reykjavik Marathon. Entrants to the event have the choice of 3 different lengths, consisting of a 5k, 10k, and a half marathon.
Where is the Midnight Sun Run?
Like many of Iceland’s sporting events, the Midnight Sun Run starts and ends in the Laugardalur valley in Reykjavik, which will be in full bloom at this time of year. No matter which distance the runner will undertake, the street Engjavegur will be the starting point. This point is very close to the city centre of Reykjavik, which is reachable by car, bus, or even taxi. Consider our range of small cars for your trip to Iceland, perfect for accessing the starting line.
The course will end, regardless of length, by the old laundry springs in Laugardalur. The track follows asphalt roads in Reykjavik, however, runners will not need to cross over any streets during the race.
5k Route: This route is flat for the most part, with sights including the botanical garden in Reykjavik, the family fun park, and the many Laugardalur’s sports halls.
10k Route: For the 10k race, runnings exit Laugardalur and enter the Elliðaárdalur valley, which contains one hill but is wildly considered one of the prettiest running locations in Reykjavik.
Half Marathon: Like the 10k route, the half marathon route enters the Elliðaárdalur valley, however, these runners will go further into the valley. Following the river Elliðaá to Lake Rauðavatn, this route is a beautiful course for longer-distance runners.
When is the Midnight Sun Run in Iceland?
The Midnight Sun Run in Iceland takes place on the summer solstice when the day is at its longest. During this 24 hour period, the sky will never darken, with around 21 hours of the sun being overhead. With the sun only disappearing below the horizon for a few hours, light lingers throughout the sky, giving the illusion of 24 hours of sunlight.
The running event begins in the evening, with different times for each distance, setting off around half an hour after one another. This means that the run takes place completely in sunlight, despite the late hours of the day.
How Much is Registration For the Race?
Like many other running events around the world, you will need to pay a fee to be able to take part in the event. The event's pricing will depend on your age and your desired distance. You’ll need to pay this fee in Iceland Krona prior to running the event, which you can either do online or on the day before crossing the starting line. Please see the event’s pricing system below or visit the official website.
Within the price paid, runners will benefit from water and Gatorade at the race’s finish, prizes for winners, a timing chip inserted into your shoe, and course patrol. Also included is the entrance to the Laugardalslaug swimming pool, one of Iceland’s many geothermal outdoor pools. Following an enjoyable race, relaxing in the various pools, steam baths, and hot tubs is an excellent way to unwind and socialise with fellow athletes.
The Suzuki Midnight Sun Run combines the joy of running with incredible scenery and unique phenomenon. If you’re looking for a brand new running challenge, learn more on the Midnight Sun Run website and register today. For those after more of a challenge, why not explore other exciting opportunities Iceland has to offer, such as Heli-Skiing?