The buzz is growing louder in the streets of Poznań, as the city gets ready to host the Poznań Half Marathon 2025. Set for Sunday, 13 April, this year’s edition promises not only to attract a record-breaking number of participants but also to celebrate local culture and history in ways few races do. With nearly 14,000 runners already signed up, the 17th PKO Poznań Half Marathon is shaping up to be one of the most dynamic and meaningful sporting events on the city’s calendar.
More Than a Run
Far beyond being a simple athletic event, the Poznań Half Marathon represents the unity of sport, history, and local spirit. Now in its 17th edition, it has grown from a regional race to one of Poland’s most prominent long-distance events. The 21.0975-kilometre route is a tour through Poznań’s most characterful districts—Jeżyce, Wilda, Łazarz, and Grunwald—combining flat, fast stretches with vibrant urban scenery.
The largest number of runners participated in Poznań in 2016, with 11,347 finishers. We dream of surpassing this number, and it is very realistic because the interest in starting in Poznań is enormous.
noted race director Łukasz Miadziołko.
The race starts on ulica Grunwaldzka near the Bałtyk building and finishes at the Międzynarodowe Targi Poznańskie, forming a semi-loop that threads together key parts of the city.
A Record-Breaking Edition
This year’s Poznań Half Marathon is already breaking records before the first runner even hits the pavement. With close to 14,000 participants signed up, it’s set to become the most attended edition in the event’s history. The previous high was in 2016, when 11,347 runners completed the course. Now, race organisers are scaling up preparations to handle the surge in participants and spectators.
We had to increase the registration cap due to the overwhelming demand. It’s a great challenge, but one we’re thrilled to take on.
Miadziołko explained.
Poznań’s Streets Turn Into a Celebration
One of the key elements that sets the Poznań Half Marathon apart is its lively atmosphere. This year, there will be 18 dedicated cheering zones along the route, supported by sponsors such as Żabka, Browar Fortuna, and PKO Bank Polski. Deputy Mayor Jędrzej Solarski has encouraged residents to turn out in force.
These cheering zones are more than a morale boost—they’re mini street festivals with music, banners, and crowd engagement. The route itself becomes a moving celebration, where spectators and athletes exchange energy in a rare citywide communion.
A Thousand Years of History in Every Step
Adding a unique cultural depth to the event, the 2025 Poznań Half Marathon commemorates the 1,000th anniversary of the first royal coronations in Poland. The official race medal is a golden disc engraved with images of Poland’s earliest monarchs—both a reward and a reminder of the country’s rich heritage. The pre-race press conference was fittingly held at Brama Poznania, a modern museum dedicated to the beginnings of Polish statehood.
It’s a beautiful connection. Running connects people, and this medal connects us to our roots.
said Ewa Przybył, regional director of PKO Bank Polski.
Practicalities: What You Need to Know
With such a massive turnout expected, Poznań’s logistics team has been hard at work ensuring smooth coordination. On race day, major roads on the course will be closed to vehicle traffic between 8:30 and 13:30. Residents should especially note that Grunwaldzka Street will close even earlier, from 6:00 a.m. onward.
To ease disruptions, organisers have provided an interactive Google Maps overlay—updated in real time—that shows which segments of the route are still active and where traffic has resumed. This innovation, led by Poznańskie Inwestycje Miejskie, is aimed at helping drivers and pedestrians navigate the city more easily during the marathon.
Special Access and Support for Runners
Participants in the Poznań Half Marathon benefit from free public transport in Poznań from 11 to 13 April by simply showing their race card with the official QR code. Those travelling from outside the city can also enjoy free regional train services on Koleje Wielkopolskie and Polregio.
And for any lingering questions about moving through the city, residents can reach out via a dedicated hotline or email, available from 10 to 13 April. Responses are promised within four hours—a reflection of the city’s commitment to minimising inconvenience while supporting this grand event.
A Weekend of Activities
While the Sunday run is the focal point, the Poznań Half Marathon is embedded in a weekend-long celebration of active living. The Poznań Run Expo at MTP will showcase fitness brands, nutrition tips, and gear. Meanwhile, the Pho3nix Kids Half Marathon gives younger athletes a taste of the running world in a fun, family-friendly setting.
In addition, the Activity Zone will provide workshops and interactive events for those not taking part in the race itself. All of these make the weekend not just about running, but about participation, community, and wellness.
This One’s Worth Showing Up For
Whether you’re a seasoned runner chasing a personal best or a local looking for an unforgettable Sunday stroll through the crowd, the Poznań Half Marathon is one of those events where everyone belongs. With its perfect blend of fast roads, buzzing support, and rich cultural connections, it’s easy to see why this race keeps growing in size and popularity. Come for the energy, stay for the atmosphere—and maybe even a history lesson or two along the way.
