About Viking Marathon Festival
The Waterford Viking Marathon returns for its 14th year, with an even bigger variety of events
Children’s Fun Run, Back Bigger and Better Again!
We’re thrilled to welcome back the Children’s Fun Run for its second year, and this time, it’s even bigger, brighter, and more exciting! Join us on Saturday, 20th June at the RSC for a fun-filled morning designed to get children age 6 and up moving, smiling, and soaking up the festival atmosphere.
Kids can take part in four fantastic events:
🏃♂️ 200m
🏃♀️ 400m
🏃 800m
👨👩👧👦 Family Relay (4×100m) — a perfect chance for families to run together!
Entry Options:
- Race Entry: €6
- Race Entry + T-shirt: €12
This is a wonderful opportunity for children to enjoy being active in a fun, safe, and welcoming environment, while experiencing the excitement of Ireland’s only running festival. Come join the fun, we can’t wait to see the young Vikings on the starting line! 🟦✨
On Sunday, 21st June 2026, alongside our Full Marathon, Full Marathon Relay, Half Marathon, and 10K, we are proud to host our annual Disability Friendly Run.
Experience a race day like no other, set in the heart of Waterford City — Ireland’s oldest city, founded by the Vikings over 1,100 years ago. The whole weekend is packed with festival vibes, live music, cheering crowds, family-friendly activities, and an electric atmosphere that lifts every runner from start to finish.
Starting Lines & Times
Full Marathon, Half Marathon & 10k
- Start Location: The Mall
- Start Time: 9:00am
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Finish Line: O’Connell Street (approx. 10 minutes’ walk from the start)
The route is lined with entertainment, supporters, and the unique energy that makes Waterford Viking Marathon a celebration as much as a challenge.
Disability Friendly Run
- Start & Finish Location: Grattan Quay
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Start Time: 9:30am
This welcoming and uplifting event is embraced by spectators, volunteers, and fellow runners — creating a joyful and inclusive festival moment for participants of all abilities.
What the runners say…
I have participated in the Waterford Viking Marathon and Half Marathon in the previous 2 years. Both occasions were excellent experiences. The setting in the heart of Waterford city for the start and finish is amazing. The varied route for the course of the route keeps runners interested and motivated. It is a very successfully run event. The volunteers on course were superb especially those on bikes to keep the top runners going. I have marked this event in my calendar again this year and look forward to toeing the line with like minded running enthusiasts. What makes this event great is the variety of abilities the race caters for, all get a heroes welcome when crossing the finish line.
Linda Grogan
Bag Drop
A bag drop facility will be available near the starting line for runners who need to store belongings.
Please note that we cannot accept responsibility for valuables, so we ask participants to pack accordingly.
Bags will then be available for collection near the finish area.
Support RNLI
By registering, you also have the chance to make a difference by raising funds for our 2025 charity partner, the RNLI, or any charity close to your heart. Whether it’s a cause you believe in or a local group you support, your participation helps make a meaningful impact.
Partners & Sponsors
At the Waterford Viking Marathon, we’re committed to creating an inclusive, sustainable event that benefits both our participants and the environment. That’s why we’re implementing measures like recyclable water cartons and recycled plastic race bags.
By partnering with us as a sponsor or partner, you’ll be supporting a sustainable event that values inclusion, corporate responsibility and sustainability. Plus, your brand will reach a diverse audience not just in Ireland, but also around the world. Don’t miss out on the chance to be part of this impactful and sustainable event.
Contact Fiona at [email protected] to learn more about sponsorship and partnership opportunities.