57. Birkhahnlauf 2026

The Birkhahnlauf is a long-standing forest race in Schneeren, a district of Neustadt am Rübenberge, Germany, scheduled for the Sunday of the final October weekend. Starting and ending at Engelkenberg, it has been held for over 50 years. The event maintains a local, practical character, offering distinct distances for children, youth, women, and men, ranging from 500 metres to 10.2 km. The adult races cover 5.1 km and 10.2 km, while younger participants can select shorter options at 0.5 km, 1.0 km, or 2.3 km, tailored to their age groups. The courses primarily traverse pine forests via paved forest and farm tracks, incorporating minor sandy stretches and avoiding significant ascents. The children's races utilize a compact cross-country loop through woods and along paths. Each child finisher is awarded a certificate, and the top three receive medals. The longer courses are marked with kilometre signs, beneficial for participants aiming to set a pace on the level terrain. Online registration is preferred, though late entries are accepted near race day, with modest entry fees differentiated for adults and children.