Tromsø Midnight Sun Marathon 2026 – Route, Registration & Tips
Tromsø Midnight Sun Marathon 2026: starts at midnight in 24-hour daylight, typically late June. Route along the Tromsø Sound coastline. Registration at msm.no.
Key facts
| Typical date | Late June 2026 |
| Start time | Midnight (23:59) |
| Distances | 5K / 10K / 21K / 42K |
| Entry fee | 700–1,100 NOK |
| Course character | Relatively flat coastal route |
| Light | Midnight sun (24h daylight) |
| Cut-off | 6 hours (marathon) |
| Registration | msm.no |
Exact date and registration opening confirmed at msm.no.
What makes Midnight Sun Marathon unique?
Tromsø Midnight Sun Marathon is one of the world's most unique marathon events — the only major marathon where you run 42.2 km in full daylight in the middle of the night. The midnight sun in Tromsø means the sun does not set from approximately 20 May to 22 July, providing spectacular light over the fjords and mountains throughout the entire course.
The event attracts thousands of international runners each year. The course starts and finishes in Tromsø city centre with views over the Tromsø Sound, the Lyngen Alps, and the characteristic Tromsø fjords. It is an experience that stays with you long after the running shoes are put away.
Tips for running at midnight
- Sleep rhythm: adjust your sleep pattern in the days before with a phase shift — stay up later and sleep later in the days before the race.
- Sun protection: apply sunscreen even at midnight — UV rays from the midnight sun are real and can cause sunburn.
- Temperature: pack light layers. Tromsø at midnight in June is often 10–14°C — cooler than you expect. Bring a light glove and possibly arm warmers.
- Arrival: visitors from Oslo should arrive at least one day before for acclimatisation and logistics. Tromsø Airport Langnes is 4 km from the city centre.
- Hotel tip: book accommodation early — Tromsø in late June is high season. Central hotels give the shortest distance to start and finish.
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FAQ
When is Tromsø Midnight Sun Marathon 2026?
Tromsø Midnight Sun Marathon typically takes place in late June, with a midnight start. In 2025 the date was 21–22 June (start 23:59). The exact 2026 date is confirmed at msm.no — check there for the official date and registration opening. Midnight sun in Tromsø lasts from approximately 20 May to 22 July.
Does the marathon really start at midnight?
Yes — Tromsø Midnight Sun Marathon starts at midnight (approx. 23:59) under the midnight sun. This means you run the entire marathon in full daylight without the sun setting. It is one of the most unique marathon experiences in the world and is why many international runners travel specifically for this event. The half marathon and 10K typically start slightly earlier in the evening.
What is the Midnight Sun Marathon route?
The Midnight Sun Marathon route starts and finishes in Tromsø city centre and runs along the Tromsø Sound coastline with views towards the mainland and mountains. The course is relatively flat with some hills. The route gives runners spectacular views of the Lyngen Alps and fjord landscape in the midnight sun light. Check msm.no for the official 2026 route map.
How much does Midnight Sun Marathon entry cost?
Tromsø Midnight Sun Marathon entry fees typically vary: Full marathon: 700–1,100 NOK. Half marathon: 550–800 NOK. 10K: 400–600 NOK. 5K: 300–400 NOK. Early registration gives the lowest price. Register at msm.no.
What is the weather like during Midnight Sun Marathon?
Tromsø in late June: average 10–16°C at midnight (often cooler than daytime). Heat problems are rare compared to summer daytime marathons — but temperatures can vary. Bring an extra layer. Tromsø in June can be windy, and it's wise to plan for 8–14°C as a running temperature. UV exposure applies even at midnight!
Tromsø Midnight Sun Marathon vs. Oslo Marathon — what is the difference?
Tromsø (late June, midnight, 10–14°C) is a unique experience marathon with unique visual impact and an international audience. Oslo Marathon (20 September) is Norway's largest marathon with 15,000+ participants, more spectator support and a more typical urban race atmosphere. Tromsø is best for runners wanting a unique experience; Oslo is best for chasing a PR with lots of support. Both are important on the Norwegian race calendar.
See also: Oslo Marathon 2026 · Stavanger Marathon 2026 · Gyms in Tromsø