Before the pandemic, the event regularly attracted over 30,000 participants, and in 2024, nearly 29,000 runners lined up for the various distances. Whether you're a seasoned marathoner, a weekend jogger, or part of a running group or family, this festival offers a chance to experience the uplifting joy of running together.

The courses themselves offer a spectacular tour of the Hungarian capital. Runners enjoy scenic routes along the Danube, across its historic bridges, and through the heart of downtown Budapest's streets.

The organizers consistently ensure that the experience is memorable, not just for those on the course, but also for the thousands of enthusiastic spectators whose cheering truly completes the festival atmosphere.

The Weekend Schedule: Races for Every Runner

The action kicks off on Saturday, 11 October with races tailored for beginners, families, and those looking to dip their toes into a running event without committing to a full marathon. Shorter, more accessible distances offer excellent options:

The 10 km race
The 5 km Riska Minimaratón
The 2.3 km “Maratonka”
The special Nestlé Family Run, which allows children and parents to share the joy of starting and finishing together.

Saturday's program also includes the Gondosóra Walk for those who prefer a more relaxed pace, and the 4×2 km relay, which provides a fun challenge for groups of friends or workplace teams.

Sunday is dedicated to the festival’s main event, the classic SPAR Budapest Marathon, covering the full 42.195 km distance. This day's program is complemented by several other challenging races:

The Marathon for Pairs, where two runners split the distance.
A four-person marathon relay for a full team experience.
The INTERSPAR 30 km.
The SPAR 14 km, which offers a serious physical test that requires less training than the full marathon.

More Than Just a Race: Join the Atmosphere

The organizers put a strong emphasis on involving the whole community. Along the routes, you'll find thousands of fans cheering, alongside music and community activities that amplify the festival vibe. If you’re not planning to run, consider joining in as a supporter!

Clapping and cheering provide invaluable strength and motivation for the thousands of runners on the course.

Key Details:
 

• Date: October 11–12, 2025 (Saturday–Sunday)

• Location: Budapest, utilising downtown and Danube-side routes.

• Entry/Registration: Advance registration is mandatory and available on the festival’s official website. You can also find detailed route maps, start times, and information on side programs there. Fees range from HUF 1,600 to HUF 45,000.

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Spar Marathon