Midnight Sun Marathon

TromsøNorway

Next race

Saturday, 19 June 2027

8:30 pm start

Distance

42.195 km / 26.2 mi

Scenic coastal road

Elevation

Rolling · 150 m gain

150 m climbing

Race profile

Overview

The Midnight Sun Marathon is the world's northernmost marathon, drawing approximately 1,124 finishers each June in Tromsø, Norway, 350 km above the Arctic Circle. Runners start in the evening and finish at midnight under the golden Arctic sun that never sets. The course passes the Arctic Cathedral, the Tromsø Bridge, and the fjord waterfront on rolling Arctic terrain in 24-hour daylight.

Midnight Sun Marathon is a certified 42.195 km (26.2 mile) marathon — the standard World Athletics marathon distance.

Typical participants: Approximately 1,124 finishers

Weather: Cool to mild and humid summer
8–12°C · humidity 75–85%
Marathon weather guide →

Course records: Men: 2:20:03 — Ebrahim Abdulaziz (2022)Women: 2:36:11 — Marte Mæhlum Johansen (2025)

Course & terrain

Midnight Sun Marathon course

Route map, elevation profile, and downloadable GPX for race-week planning.

The Midnight Sun Marathon is an evening loop in Tromsø that starts in the city centre and finishes at midnight beneath the Arctic sun, crossing the Tromsø Bridge and passing the Arctic Cathedral along the fjord waterfront. The bridge climb is the clearest elevation test on an otherwise moderate Arctic course, and the 24-hour daylight makes the late-race miles uniquely atmospheric. Spectators gather in the city-centre festival area and along the bridge and waterfront as runners race through the golden Arctic night.

Midnight Sun Marathon route map

Registration

Midnight Sun Marathon entry requirements

For the Midnight Sun Marathon, the race is held on the Saturday closest to midsummer in June, with a 10:00 pm start. Registration is at https://www.midnightsunmarathon.no/.

Common questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Midnight Sun Marathon elevation profile?: The Midnight Sun Marathon has 150 metres of total climbing and 140 metres of descent over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). The course is rolling, with 10 metres of net climb from start to finish.
Where can I find the Midnight Sun Marathon route map?: This page includes a Midnight Sun Marathon course map showing the full 42.195 km route from start to finish. Crosses the Tromsø Bridge, passes the Arctic Cathedral (Ishavskatedralen), and follows the fjord waterfront.
How long is the Midnight Sun Marathon?: The Midnight Sun Marathon is the standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles), certified to World Athletics rules. Coastal course from Tromsø city centre to midnight in the city-centre festival area.
What time does the Midnight Sun Marathon start?: The 2027 Midnight Sun Marathon starts at 8:30 pm local time on Saturday, 19 June 2027. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications confirm any last-minute schedule changes.
Does the sun really not set during the Midnight Sun Marathon?: Yes. Tromsø is above the Arctic Circle, and in June the sun does not set. Runners complete the marathon in continuous daylight — the midnight finish is in full golden sun.
When is the Midnight Sun Marathon?: The race is held on the Saturday closest to midsummer in June, with a 10:00 pm start.
How cold is the Midnight Sun Marathon?: June in Tromsø is mild Arctic summer, often 8–14 °C (46–57 °F). Wind off the fjord can make it feel colder — layers are essential.
Does the Tromsø marathon cross the Tromsø Bridge?: Yes. The Tromsø Bridge climb offers panoramic views of the Arctic Cathedral and the fjord — the course's main elevation challenge.
What makes the Midnight Sun Marathon unique?: Running a marathon at midnight in full sunlight above the Arctic Circle is an experience found nowhere else on earth. The Arctic Cathedral and fjord scenery complete the bucket-list appeal.

Last updated 11 October 2026. Edition dates and course details are reviewed regularly.

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