5 kilometres returns on Saturday evening
The popular nightrun of the Leiden Marathon is making a spectacular comeback during the weekend of 9 and 10 May 2026. By moving the 5 kilometres from Sunday to Saturday evening, more space is created in the city for the other distances AND the organisation meets the many requests from runners to bring back the illuminated run. The start takes place at 22:30 on the Garenmarkt, where participants will also finish.
The organisation will festively decorate the route with all kinds of lighting. Participants can also wear lights themselves. This transforms the city into a magical running backdrop. The nightrun is accessible and has no age limit, allowing everyone to experience this unique evening event.
Last held in 2019
In 2019, the 5 kilometres was last held on Saturday evening, with start and finish on the Doezastraat. In 2026, the illuminated run forms the second part of the marathon weekend. On Saturday, the various walking distances are scheduled first.
The news of the nightrun’s return follows the recent announcement about the relocation of the start location of the 10 kilometres, half marathon and marathon to the Koninginnelaan. In this way, the organisation creates more space in the city for participants and spectators in the interest of safety.
Already registered?
Registration for one of the (walking) distances of the 35th edition of the Leiden Marathon is available here. Participants who have already registered for the 5 kilometres and cannot or do not wish to run on Saturday evening will receive their registration fee back free of charge by sending a message to [email protected].
