28th Cologne St. Nicholas Run
Participants run along an officially measured circuit through the scenic Kölner Stadtwald. The event features a competitive TopLauf, an open-pace FunLauf, and a dedicated KidsLauf for younger participants. Young finishers in the kids' category are rewarded with a chocolate St. Nicholas at the finish line.
What to Expect
Festive road races through the Kölner Stadtwald with flexible lap options.
Event Details
Duration
TopLauf: 55 Minuten nach Start; FunRun: 1,5 Stunden nach Start.
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Leichtathletik-Team Deutsche Sporthochschule Köln e.V.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Runners, including children and youth
Vibe
Sporty and festive
Energy Level
High
Budget
€€
Photo Friendly
Moderate
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: TopLauf: 19,00 EUR (03/01 - 10/01), 21,00 EUR (10/02 - 11/30); KidsRun: 11,00 EUR; FunRun: 19,00 EUR (03/01 - 10/01), 21,00 EUR (10/02 - 11/30). – Get tickets
Tips & Advice
- Enter the TopLauf only if you expect to run 10 km in under 55 minutes, because that race closes 55 minutes after the start.
- Choose the FunLauf if you're unsure how far you want to go, since you can turn into the finish after any lap or keep running.
- Sign up children born between 2011 and 2018 for the KidsLauf, where finishers get a chocolate St. Nicholas and a Nikolaus hat.
- Dress for a December morning in the forest, as every race is run on laps of the loop through the Kölner Stadtwald in Lindenthal.
Special Events & Promotions
- TopLauf and FunLauf have different registration fees for March 1–October 1 and October 2–November 30.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Which race should I enter?
The TopLauf is for runners aiming to finish 10 km in under 55 minutes, and it is 10 km only (3 laps). The FunLauf is for everyone expecting to take longer, with 3.4 km, 6.7 km or 10 km options. The KidsLauf is one 3.4 km lap for children.
Do I have to pick my FunLauf distance in advance?
No. During the race you decide how many laps to run, and after each lap you can turn into the finish or add another lap.
What do kids get for running?
KidsLauf finishers get a chocolate St. Nicholas and a Nikolaus hat. The race is for children born between 2011 and 2018.
Is the course officially measured?
Yes. The loop through the Kölner Stadtwald is measured by a licensed DLV surveyor and is eligible for official rankings. The event runs as a road race.
How long do I have to finish?
The TopLauf closes 55 minutes after its start, and the FunLauf closes 1.5 hours after its start.
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Always check the official website for the most current information.
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