5 reasons to run in Riga!
23 April 2025Every May, Riga turns into the World Capital of Running – the city of runners, music, and celebration! If you’re wondering why the Rimi Riga Marathon should be on your race calendar—here are five great reasons!
A suitable distance for everyone!
We offer various distances to cater to participants with different running abilities and goals.
On Saturday, May 17, the Kids’ Day will take place with short distances meant for everyone, especially families with kids – “Happy Babies” course, 60m Toyota Wess Grand Sprint, 200m, 400m (free of charge for kids up to 12 years) and the DPD Mile (1609 m) based on the World Athletics Road Running Championships Road Mile Course!
On Sunday, May 18, runners will take on the marathon (42 km), half marathon (21 km), 10 km and 6 km distances in the very heart of Riga.
By the way, our courses are fast and flat. No surprise that many participants have set their fastest times here, while the DPD Mile Course still boasts the Road Mile’s World Record achieved in 2023. Maybe 2025 will be your turn for a record?
UNESCO World Heritage Site: Scenic courses and Latvian culture!
In the scenic courses that make Riga unique on the global running map, you, along with thousands of international marathon tourists and Latvian runners, will have the opportunity to run through our breathtaking city in the spring. Experience the best of Riga as you cross three bridges over the River Daugava and take in breathtaking views of the historic Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Run through the Quiet Center, an Art Nouveau gem, and past one of the city’s most iconic landmarks—the Freedom Monument. There, in the Birthday Alley (in collaboration with shopping center Spice) of the Rimi Riga Marathon, you’ll be greeted with Latvian singing and dancing at its finest.
Perfect in the Details: Music, energy, and cheering!
What does every runner need? Energy! And we’ve made sure you’ll get your boost all along the course. First, our water and energy stations are well-stocked with water, electrolyte drinks, and energy gels. Then, there are the music points – featuring popular Latvian personalities cheering you on with great music and good vibes. And finally, an extra-energetic finish powered by Elektrum: in the last few hundred metres, you’ll be welcomed by loud cheering and uplifting energy. We’re confident that this support will help you go for your personal best – simply cross the finish line with a big smile!
Flourishing art scene: Epic medals at the finish line!
Rimi Riga Marathon stands out from other running races around the world with spectacular and ever changing medal and T-shirt design, and 2025 is no exception! The finishers of all distances in the Rimi Riga Marathon, from the smallest ones on the Kids’ Day to the marathon distance, will receive medals designed by the legendary Latvian artist Ivars Heinrihsons. But if you want new running T-shirts in your collection, artist Helēna Heinrihsone has designed two very special ones this year!
A weekend full of great emotions!
More than 40 000 participants from over 100 countries will stand on the starting line on May 17 and 18. Rimi Riga Marathon isn’t just a running event; it’s a festival of joy and positive emotions for everyone, and as Sebastian Coe labeled us back in 2023 – “Riga is the Road Running Capital of the World!”
Join us for a weekend filled with family fun, cheering on runners, and fully experience the electric atmosphere, vibrant music, delicious food, shopping and more!
You are welcome to stay in Riga a little longer and admire the city’s iconic Art Nouveau architecture, which surrounds its streets with an exquisite combination of mystique and elegance. Whether savoring local cuisine or admiring architectural wonders, Riga offers an unforgettable experience!
