NYRR Midnight Run 2026

The NYRR Midnight Run begins precisely at midnight on New Year's Eve in Central Park, with fireworks marking the start. This four-mile Manhattan race, organized by New York Road Runners, centers on the unique enjoyment of running through the park as the rest of the city marks the new year. The course remains within Central Park, between Fifth Avenue and Central Park West. The distance is suitable for casual runners yet offers a genuine race feel. The evening typically features music and dancing pre-race, a countdown starting at 11:59 p.m., and awards for top male, female, and nonbinary finishers. Participants are drawn by the desire for a party, a run, or both, creating a more festive atmosphere than a typical road race while retaining a competitive element.