Get ready to run through history! The Waterford Viking Marathon Running Festival returns on June 20th and 21st, 2026, and it’s set to be the biggest and boldest event yet.

Excitement is continuing to build across the city and county as the countdown begins to one of the biggest events on the Waterford calendar, with more than 5,500 participants expected to take part over the weekend.

Runners from 35 countries are set to travel to Waterford for the festival, which has continued to grow in popularity both nationally and internationally in recent years.

Speaking to WLR, Waterford Viking Marathon Events, Public Relations and Communications Lead Fiona Craughan said registrations are “flooding in” as organisers prepare for what promises to be a very special weekend.

The festival will include the full marathon, half marathon, 10k, marathon relay, and the Waterford Viking Run for All, while a children’s event will also take place at the RSC on the Saturday.

Craughan said the event relies heavily on volunteers, with more than 300 needed across the weekend to help guide participants, assist in race headquarters, and support runners at the start and finish lines.

She encouraged anybody interested in getting involved to volunteer, saying it is a brilliant way to experience the atmosphere and excitement of the marathon weekend.

While the event attracts experienced runners and athletes, Craughan said many participants also use the marathon as a personal fitness goal or to raise money for charity, creating a unique and inclusive atmosphere across the city.

The marathon has also gained international recognition, recently being featured in a Canadian running magazine as an event “worth travelling for.”

Despite its growing global profile, organisers say the Waterford Viking Marathon remains a hugely important local event and something the entire county can be proud of.

Anyone interested in volunteering or looking for more information can contact organisers at info@waterfordvikingmarathon.com.

The Waterford Viking Marathon Running Festival takes place on June 20th and 21st, 2026.

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