Meet Riga
Where is Riga?
Riga, the vibrant capital of Latvia, is a cultural gem in Northern Europe and the largest of the Baltic capitals.
Rich in history and brimming with unique cultural experiences, the city is easily accessible via direct flights from most major European cities. Running through one of Europe’s most beautiful capitals means experiencing a little of everything: cobblestone streets, a UNESCO-listed Old Town and majestic views across the Daugava River.
On the scenic World Championships courses that make Riga unique on the global running map, you will join thousands of international and Latvian runners in experiencing our breathtaking city in spring.
Years of building Riga as a European running destination
As the leading race in the Baltics, we punch far above our weight, creating a major social, mental and economic impact. For two decades, we have developed Riga into one of Europe’s leading running destinations.
14–16 May 2027
May 14–15
May 15
May 16
A culture-driven, city-wide running festival
Rimi Riga Marathon is not only a race — it is a celebration of Latvia’s culture, traditions and community spirit. Inspired by Latvia’s UNESCO-listed Song and Dance Festival tradition, the course becomes a stage where hundreds of singers perform along the route, creating a truly unforgettable atmosphere for every runner.
Known as the “Singing Marathon”, this unique experience carries runners across Riga’s bridges and past its landmarks, surrounded by a powerful wall of sound — a celebration of music, movement and togetherness.
It is a moment you will not find at any other marathon in the world — where running meets one of Latvia’s greatest cultural traditions.
Where it all began
Riga is where the World Athletics Road Running Championships began. In 2023, the world’s best runners came here to race the inaugural championships — and our courses follow those same iconic routes.
Now it is your turn to run where champions raced. On our Road Mile course, you will be running a route that has already witnessed two world records.
Choose your distance in Riga
What do other runners like about the Rimi Riga Marathon?
Everything. The organisation was superb. It felt like a festival.
The route was the best long route I have ever experienced — across bridges, the city centre and forest.
How you could have that many people participating yet feel personally acknowledged and seen by everyone involved — from spectators and musicians to those giving the medals. Incredible support.
Since it was our first time taking part, we were impressed by how well organised the event was, with every detail taken care of. Thank you to all the organisers who put so much work into making it happen!
The atmosphere, planning and course were so much better than I had imagined. An amazing event.
Excellent organisation and pleasant company. Everyone supports everyone.
Records
At the World Athletics Road Running Championships Riga 23, both the men’s and women’s road mile world records were set. The women’s mark remains the current world record, while the men’s mark stood briefly before being surpassed in 2024.
Course records
Men
Former WR
Women
3rd-fastest women’s half marathon time in the world in 2026
Current WR
Official Nike & Art Series T-shirts
Every runner deserves a piece of Riga to take home. Participants can choose between our official Nike participant T-shirt — a limited-edition design with only 1,000 pieces available upon registration — and our locally produced Riga Marathon Art Series T-shirt.
Inspired by Latvian artist Boriss Bērziņš’s work In Waves, the Art Series T-shirt is the first release in a four-year collection. Each year, a different artist’s work will appear on the back, while the front will feature the next letter and artwork in the annual medal series. It is a wearable introduction to the best of Baltic art.
Rimi Riga Marathon Medal Collection
A medal that tells a story. Our latest four-year concept celebrates Riga’s identity, creativity and running legacy through a unique collection spelling out “R I G A”.
Each letter is individually designed by a legendary Latvian master, creating a series in which every finisher becomes part of a bigger artistic journey. The first letter, “R”, was awarded in 2026. Runners return in 2027 to collect “I” and continue building the complete set.
P.S. Do not worry if you missed the first letter — there will be more opportunities to earn the full collection.
A finish line shaped by artists
Check out how we did in 2026!
More about Riga
Admire the city’s iconic Art Nouveau architecture, which fills its streets with an exquisite combination of mystique and elegance. Whether savouring local cuisine or exploring architectural wonders, Riga offers an unforgettable experience.
