Carnival Marathon

The Karneval-Marathon blends Cologne’s carnival spirit with a full 42.195 km road race held on 11 November, marking the start of the fifth season. It is a small, non‑commercial event where fun and community take centre stage, while still offering a serious challenge for marathon enthusiasts. Costumes are warmly encouraged but entirely optional, creating a colourful backdrop that reflects the city’s festive character. With registration open and a strict participant cap, early entry is recommended for those keen to secure a place.

Despite its playful atmosphere, the event maintains athletic credibility with a DLV‑measured, best‑list eligible course. The route is in Cologne, with listings indicating it runs around the Pescher See area, giving runners a scenic loop in the city’s outskirts. The field is limited to 50 starters, ensuring an intimate experience and easy logistics on race day. Further operational details such as the exact start time and on‑site services are published by the organiser on the official website.