Zürcher Silvesterlauf
Participants race through the festively decorated streets of Zurich's Old Town across diverse formats ranging from family runs and costumed fun runs to competitive and elite races. Spectators line the course along the Limmat to cheer on runners and enjoy live music, interviews, and award ceremonies at the stage on Stadthausanlage. The event village also features an expo market with sports gear, activities, food stands, and warm holiday punch.
What to Expect
Zurich's 50th anniversary city run through the festive Old Town.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Zürich Tourismus
Food & Drink
Food stands and warm holiday punch are offered at the event village, and finishers receive a Powerade drink and a Migros snack.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and runners of all abilities
Vibe
Festive and energetic
Energy Level
High
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate
Location
Know Before You Go
- Parking: Öffentliche Verkehrsmittel, Fahrrad oder zu Fuss werden empfohlen; Parkmöglichkeiten in Zürich sind begrenzt.
- Accessibility: Athletes with disabilities can participate with a guide in almost all categories, though wheelchair users must use standard everyday wheelchairs with an accompanying guide.
- Pets: Hunde sind auf der Laufstrecke nicht gestattet.
Tips & Advice
- Register for a race category in advance; registration for the 50th Zürcher Silvesterlauf is open.
- Collect your start number at Migros City before the run, since participants who do not collect it are not entitled to the participant gifts, presents or medals.
- Use public transport, a bicycle or walk to the event, as parking in Zurich is limited.
- Bring enough fluids for during and after the run, as participants are advised to stay hydrated.
- If running with a child, agree on a marked meeting point after the finish; matching symbols appear on the child’s start number and at the meeting points.
Special Events & Promotions
- Early registrants can get discounted starting places through September 1.
- Run for Fun participants can win prizes for the most original costumes; the five most original participants in each category (individuals and teams) receive prizes.
- Participants earn Cumulus points for each kilometer completed.
- The 50th-anniversary edition features a newly composed event song that will be part of the event each year.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What race formats are available?
The program includes family runs, a costumed Run for Fun, a Pink Ribbon Charity Run, Volkslauf categories and elite races.
Can spectators join in any activities?
Visitors are welcome to take part in the warm-up at the start area.
What should runners know about course rules?
Dogs, headphones, Nordic-walking poles and private accompaniment on foot or wheels are not allowed on the course.
Where do runners collect their start numbers?
Collect start numbers at the Migros City collection point on Löwenstrasse. Groups can have one representative pick up a group envelope at a separate counter.
What facilities and refreshments are available for participants?
Changing rooms and lockers are in the Silvesterlauf-Dörfli. After finishing, participants receive a drink and snack; mobile toilets are at the start lineup and in the village.
More Christmas Events near Zurich
Always check the official website for the most current information.
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