The Rimi Riga Marathon is the largest marathon in the Baltic states, drawing about 9,000 finishers each May through Latvia's capital. The course passes the Freedom Monument, the Daugava River, and Art Nouveau boulevards on flat Riga terrain. May spring weather and a lively finish in the old town make it a regional highlight.
Rimi Riga Marathon is a certified 42.195 km (26.2 mile) marathon — the standard World Athletics marathon distance.
The next Rimi Riga Marathon is scheduled for Sunday, 16 May 2027 with a 9:00 am start. The certified course covers 42.195 km (26.2 miles) with 50 m of climbing on a very flat layout.
The Rimi Riga Marathon is a flat Daugava valley loop starting and finishing near the Freedom Monument on Brivibas bulvaris, passing the Old Town, Art Nouveau districts, and Mezaparks. The riverside and boulevard sections are the easiest because they stay level and flowing, while the long urban straights and park transitions can feel tougher and more mentally demanding on such a fast course. Crowds are densest at the Freedom Monument, through the Old Town, and in Mezaparks.
The Rimi Riga Marathon course is very flat over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). Runners cover 50 metres of climbing and 50 metres of descent, with minimal net elevation change from start to finish.
For the Rimi Riga Marathon, the race is held on the third Sunday of May. Registration is at https://www.rigamarathon.com/en/.
Race-day footage from the course to help you picture the route, crowds, and key landmarks on marathon day.
Last updated 18 July 2026. Edition dates and course details are reviewed regularly.
Other races closest to Riga.
The Vilniaus Maratonas draws about 6,000 runners each September through Lithuania's baroque capital. The course passes Gediminas Tower, the Cathedral Square, and the Neris and Vilnia River embankments. September autumn weather and a tour of Vilnius Old Town make it the country's flagship marathon.
Next race: Sunday, 20 September 2026
The Tallinna Maraton (Tallinn Marathon) attracts about 6,500 finishers each September through Estonia's medieval capital. The course passes the UNESCO-listed old town walls, Toompea Castle, and the Baltic Sea waterfront. September crisp weather and flat coastal terrain make it the Baltic region's largest marathon.
Next race: Sunday, 13 September 2026
The Stockholm Marathon is one of the world's largest marathons, drawing approximately 12k finishers on an urban road in Stockholm, Sweden. The course starts and finishes at the Olympic Stadium. The route crosses several islands via bridges, passing the Royal Palace, City Hall, and Djurgården. Very flat with short climbs on bridge approaches.
Next race: Saturday, 5 June 2027
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