Saint Sylvester of Porto 2026

This year on Christmas Eve 🎄, put the cutlery away and pull out your sneakers, because we’re coming to the table for one of the most beautiful races of the year 💫.

In late December, just a few days before New Year’s Eve, the beautiful city of Porto opens its doors to you for a festive and illuminated race: the Lidl S.Silvestre Cidade do Porto (or Porto Saint Sylvester in French) 💡. Portugal’s second largest city invites you to wander through its cobbled, colorful alleyways across two night timed ⏱️ courses. It’s probably your last chance to finally tackle the good resolutions you’ve been putting off all year, so don’t let it slip by 😉. Plus, it’ll give you an excuse to eat with twice the appetite at the many holiday meals to come 👀. Don’t leave this page, and get your mind ready 🧠—we’re going to give you all our tips so you can prepare with peace of mind ⬇️.

First of all, two routes have been set up by the organizers: one for walkers and the other for seasoned runners 👟. If you’re thirstier for a time than for port wine 🍷, the 10 km will suit you without a doubt. The course includes lots of turns 🔄, so you’ll have to keep accelerating again and again. No drifting off into your thoughts—focus is essential here 🎯. Watch out for the level of the competition; some come from far away to perform. Porto is a big city that draws crowds 🌎: last year, nearly 10,000 people lined up on Avenue dos Aliados, waiting for the start signal 🚨. You’ll need to train well—the time to beat is 30'01" if you want to head home with the trophy 🏆. On the other hand, if running isn’t your thing, you can always sign up for the walk. The 5 km goes through the whole city and will let you discover the historic buildings 🏛️ at a gentle pace. An active or leisurely walk—it’s your choice! 👍

Once you’ve crossed the finish line 🏁, you can keep the adventure going by exploring the city and its surroundings: city tours, beaches or natural parks 🌳—you’re sure to find what you’re looking for 🥹. Die-hard fans of history and culture 📚 will be in heaven as they pass through the Ribeira district, the Dom Luis I Bridge 🌉 and the Porto Cathedral (Sé). These iconic sites have shaped the city and people’s minds across generations. Maybe you’ll do the same with your sporting performance? 😌 Going to Porto is also an opportunity to try Portuguese culinary specialties, and there’s no shortage 🇵🇹. Queijada, Francesinha, and of course the famous Port wine will introduce you to new flavors during this Christmas 🎅 season.

So in December, say goodbye to your old resolutions and come carve your new goals by starting with a strong performance at the Porto Saint Sylvester! 💨