St. Nicholas Run 2026

Time for one of the most anticipated, atmospheric and joyful starts in the capital’s winter calendar 💪! The St. Nicholas Run in Kabacki Forest is a unique opportunity to officially kick off December celebrations among hundreds of smiling runners dressed in red hats and Santa’s helper outfits. A well-known, 100% forest and flat course awaits participants (usually over 5 km or two loops making 10 km) ⏱️. In addition to the main race, there’s no shortage of dynamic Nordic Walking starts and energy-packed races for the youngest. Crisp winter air, the smell of hot tea at the finish line, and bells everywhere create an atmosphere that can melt any December frost!

Ursynów’s Kabacki Forest in its winter, snow-dusted aura looks like a fairy tale. After crossing the finish line with a wide smile, picking up a beautiful St. Nicholas medal, and taking souvenir photos, be sure to head into the city with your family or running crew 🥇:

See the festive illuminations along the Royal Route – when it gets dark, take a walk from Castle Square along Krakowskie Przedmieście. Millions of lights, light sculptures and a giant Christmas tree will instantly put you in a holiday mood ✨.

Go to the Royal Garden of Light in Wilanów – located just a stone’s throw from Ursynów – the baroque residence turns in winter into an open-air musical labyrinth lit by thousands of LEDs, delighting visitors of any age 👑.

Visit the Botanical Garden in Powsin – situated on the edge of the forest, the garden often hosts dedicated illuminated exhibitions on winter weekends or offers a calming, peaceful walk surrounded by sleeping nature 🌳.

Warm up with thick hot chocolate or traditional borscht – after a freezing run in a Santa outfit, nothing restores your strength like a hot meal. Drop in for aromatic dumplings with sauerkraut and mushrooms, and for dessert обязательно head to the iconic chocolate café for a thick, sweet drink ☕.

Warsaw in winter pulses with incredible pre-holiday energy and is excellently connected with the rest of the country (you can conveniently get to the start in Ursynów by metro). If after a St. Nicholas weekend in the capital you feel like moving on, in less than an hour by car or train you’ll reach atmospheric Żyrardów or central Łódź. Get your red hats ready, pack your fitness, and report to the start line in Kabaty 👟!