The Auffahrtslauf St. Gallen (Ascension Day Run) is a major Swiss running tradition scheduled for Thursday, May 14, 2026. As the name suggests, the event takes place annually on Ascension Day, drawing thousands of participants to the city of St. Gallen. The race is known for its festive atmosphere, diverse distance options, and the unique finish line experience at the Kybunpark football stadium. The event is highly accessible, offering free public transportation across Switzerland for all registered participants.
| Race Distance | Key Features | Logistics |
|---|---|---|
| Half Marathon | 21.1 km competitive route | Free national train travel included |
| 10 km / 6 km | Popular main distances | Bib pickup at Shopping Arena |
| Walking & Nordic | Non-competitive categories | Scenic routes around St. Gallen |
| Children's Races | Varying short distances | Family-friendly start waves |
St. Gallen is the capital of the Canton of St. Gallen in eastern Switzerland, with a population of approximately 80,000 residents. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its Abbey District and its prestigious university. The demographic is highly international and education-oriented, with a median annual household income of approximately CHF 85,000. Geographically, the race course is moderately challenging, featuring the rolling hills and urban landscapes characteristic of the Appenzell foothills. The climate in mid-May is typically temperate; average temperatures on May 14th range from a low of 8°C (46°F) to a high of 18°C (64°F), though Alpine weather patterns can occasionally bring sudden spring showers.
Logistically, the event is centered around the Shopping Arena and Kybunpark. Participants who register by April 29, 2026, can collect their race numbers early starting May 6 at the Shopping Arena, while late registrants collect them on race day. Valuables can be stored at a dedicated securities point on the ground floor of the mall. Please note that racing with dogs or other animals is strictly prohibited. The event concludes with a celebration at the stadium, where finishers across all categories—including the "Run for All" inclusive wave—are celebrated. For further details or to review the 2026 runner briefing, participants should monitor the official event portal.
May 14, 2026
Distance — 6K
Type — Running
13:30
Fr 30.00
May 14, 2026
Distance — 6K
Type — Running
13:30
Fr 30.00
May 14, 2026
Distance — 10K
Type — Running
14:15
Fr 40.00
May 14, 2026
Distance — 10K
Type — Running
14:15
Fr 40.00
May 14, 2026
Distance — 21.1K
Type — Running
16:05
Fr 64.00
May 14, 2026
Distance — 21.1K
Type — Running
16:05
Fr 80.00
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for May in St. Gallen.
Learn more about the host city, St. Gallen.
St. Gallen is a Swiss city and the capital of the canton of St. Gallen. It evolved from the hermitage of Saint Gall, founded in the 7th century. Today, it is a large urban agglomeration and represents the center of eastern Switzerland. Its economy consists mainly of the service sector. The city is home to the University of St. Gallen, one of the best business schools in Europe.
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