Karneval Marathon Köln 2026

The Karneval Marathon Köln is a small fun-run marathon in northwest Cologne, centered on two local passions: running the marathon distance and observing Carnival. It takes place at the beginning of Cologne’s Carnival period, and the field is limited to 50 runners, with a waiting list available. The race is explicitly non-commercial, with organizers stating the aim is enjoyment over a refined big-city race format. The course follows a repeating loop around Pescher See on Pescher Straße, requiring runners to complete the circuit 15 times to achieve the marathon distance. Costumes are highly encouraged, meaning the participants are more likely to be costumed Carnival enthusiasts than typical serious road racers. Event planning commenced in 2016, and its limited size, lake loop, Carnival timing, and costume tradition give it the feel of a private running gathering rather than a standard marathon.