The Bukhara Night Race returns for its 2026 edition on Saturday, April 18, 2026. Since its debut in 2022, this atmospheric night run has become a signature event in Uzbekistan, allowing participants to traverse the illuminated streets of ancient Bukhara. Starting near the iconic Ark Fortress, runners pass by world-renowned landmarks including the Kalon Minaret, madrasas, and ancient trading domes. The event is part of the Samarkand Marathon series and is accredited by the international SheRACES initiative, ensuring a focus on equality and inclusion across all distances.
| Race Category | Distance | Start Time | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Half Marathon | 21.0975 km | 07:00 PM | Iconic route through the historic center |
| 10K Run | 10 km | 07:10 PM | Passing the Kalon Minaret and domes |
| 5K Run | 5.3 km | 07:30 PM | Community distance through the old city |
| Nordic Walking | 2 km | 07:35 PM | Non-running health walk category |
Event Highlights and Social Responsibility
The Bukhara Night Race places a strong emphasis on sustainability through its "Cleaner than Before" program. A key feature is the Plogging event, where participants collect litter while running, contributing to the cleanliness of Bukhara’s historic streets. The festivities conclude with a grand musical concert featuring a headliner (to be announced) from 10:30 PM until midnight. Every registered participant receives a starter pack including a backpack, event t-shirt, and race bib.
Logistics and Schedule
Starter kits will be distributed in Tashkent on April 15–16 and in Bukhara on race day, April 18. The event also features a robust Kids Run program starting at 5:00 PM, with distances ranging from 60m for toddlers up to 1000m. The race village at the Ark Fortress opens at 3:30 PM, providing changing rooms and storage lockers. Awards ceremonies for overall and age-group winners take place throughout the evening.
Apr 18, 2026
Distance — 21.1K
Type — Running
19:00
$25.00
Apr 18, 2026
Distance — 10K
Type — Running
19:10
$25.00
Apr 18, 2026
Distance — 5K
Type — Running
19:30
$20.00
Apr 18, 2026
Distance — 2K
Type — Running
19:35
$12.50
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for April in Bukhara.
Learn more about the host city, Bukhara.
Bukhara is a city historically astride the Silk Road in the Samarkand through Bukhara region of Uzbekistan. It has a wealth of architecture and culture and is a must-see destination on any tour of this region. It's also easy to reach, with a relaxed national visa regime and fast transport by plane, train or highway with no plodding camels involved. With a population of 280,000 in 2020, its suburbs are modern and industrial, but its centre is an extensive, well-preserved Old Town and UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Read more launchWatch highlights and course previews from previous years.
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