Artistic rendering – Event may differ
49th Cologne New Year's Eve Run
Lace up your running shoes for the 49th Cologne New Year's Eve Run on December 31, 2025. This popular event offers a 5 km run, a 10 km main race, and a 950m Schülerlauf, all taking place on a fast, flat, and officially measured course through the traffic-free Merheimer Heide park. Relay races are also available, making it a perfect way to celebrate the new year with athletic camaraderie.
What to Expect
New Year's Eve run on a certified course.
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $$
- Parking: Umkleiden und Duschen stehen zur Verfügung. Eine Aufbewahrung von Wertsachen oder Gepäck und Wechselkleidung können wir leider nicht anbieten.
- Accessibility: The course is flat and traffic-free, but baby joggers and dogs are not permitted.
- Pets: No pets allowed
Other Christmas Events Near Köln
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Runners, families, new year's eve celebrations
Vibe
Energetic, festive, community-oriented
Energy Level
High
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Low
Special Events & Promotions
- Official DLV-certified and measured course
- New Year's Eve pretzel for all finishers
- Awards for top finishers in age groups and categories
Location
Event Details
Duration
Varies by race, with staggered start times throughout the day.
Ages
950m Schülerlauf (Jg. 2018 - 2013), 5 km Lauf (ab Jg. 2014), 10 km Hauptlauf (ab Jg. 2012)
Neighborhood
Merheimer Heide
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
TuS Köln rrh. 1874 e.V.
Food & Drink
All finishers receive a fresh New Year's pretzel while supplies last.
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Register early as the deadline is December 27th, though late registration on the day is possible up to 45 minutes before your race start.
- Arrive by 9:45 AM on December 31st to pick up your race bib and start documents from the registration office.
- Note that while changing rooms and showers are available, there is no secure storage for valuables or luggage.
- The event proceeds in all weather conditions, so be prepared for potential rain or cold.
- Check the results and print your certificate online after the event; awards are given for top finishers in each age group and category.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the different race distances available?
The event features a 950m Schülerlauf (for ages 2013-2018), a 5 km run (for ages 2014+), a 10 km main race (for ages 2012+), and relay races.
When does registration close?
The official registration deadline is December 27th at midnight. Late registration on the day of the event is possible up to 45 minutes before the start of each race.
Can I bring my dog or a stroller?
No, unfortunately, baby joggers and accompanying dogs are not permitted on the course.
Where is the start and finish line?
Both the start and finish lines are located on the athletics track within the TuS Köln rrh. stadium.
What do finishers receive?
All finishers will receive a fresh New Year's pretzel at the finish line, as long as supplies last.
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.