Rome Fun Run
The non-competitive fun run and walk held on the eve of the Rome Marathon
About Rome Fun Run
The Rome Fun Run
The Rome Fun Run (also known as the Water Fun Run - Saturday 5K) is the most popular and well-attended event of the city's entire running week. It is a non-competitive run and walk covering approximately 5 kilometers, open to people of all ages and fitness levels. Held in the city of Rome, Lazio, it takes place on the Saturday preceding the major Rome Marathon. This is not a race against the clock, but a collective celebration of movement and community.
A route through the monumental heart of the Capital
The course offers one of the most beautiful backdrops in the world for running or walking: it winds through the historic center of Rome, passing the Imperial Fora, the Colosseum, and the ancient ruins of the city, with the start and finish line located in the Circus Maximus area. It is a unique opportunity to experience the city as a protagonist, with streets closed to traffic and returned to the citizens in a festive atmosphere that brings together both locals and tourists.
Open to everyone: families, children, and dogs
The strength of the Fun Run lies in its total inclusivity. No medical certificate is required, and there are no age limits: you can run, walk, or simply stroll at your own pace. Children, families, groups of friends, schools, associations, and even four-legged friends are welcome to join alongside their owners. Every year, the event gathers tens of thousands of participants who bring color to the center of Rome.
Sport and solidarity
The Fun Run is not just a sporting event, but also a great moment of solidarity. Numerous non-profit and volunteer organizations—including groups like SOS Children's Villages, CSI Rome, CSV Lazio, and various foundations—use the run to raise funds and raise awareness for social causes. Upon arrival at the Circus Maximus, a vibrant Charity Village comes to life with booths, entertainment, and charitable initiatives.
Part of the Rome Running Week
The Fun Run is an integral part of the Rome Running Week, the week of events organized around the Rome Marathon. While the marathon is reserved for athletes tackling the 42.195 km distance, the Fun Run is the accessible, popular version designed to let everyone experience the thrill of a city race without barriers. It has become a permanent fixture in the Capital's spring calendar.
Rome Fun Run — edition 2026
Fun Run 2026
The Fun Run 2026 was held on Saturday, March 21, 2026, one day before the Rome Marathon. The non-competitive 5K run and walk crossed the monumental heart of the Capital, starting in the morning and finishing in the evocative setting of the Circus Maximus, where the Charity Village was set up with various non-profit organizations.
An event for everyone
As every year, the event was open to all ages, with no medical certificate required, allowing participants to run or walk at their own pace. Numerous schools, families, and volunteer associations enlivened the event, confirming the Fun Run as one of the most beloved highlights of the Rome Running Week.
Programme Rome Fun Run 2026
Program
- Date: Saturday, March 21, 2026
- Distance: approx. 5 km non-competitive (run or walk at your own pace)
- Route: from the Imperial Fora to the Circus Maximus, through the historic center of Rome
- Start and Finish: Circus Maximus area (exact time communicated to participants in the days prior)
- Open to: adults, children, families, and dogs; children under 14 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian
At the end, at the Circus Maximus, the Charity Village featured booths, entertainment, and solidarity initiatives.
Highlights Rome Fun Run 2026
- Non-competitive 5K run and walk in the center of Rome
- Route passing the Imperial Fora, Colosseum, and Circus Maximus
- Open to families, children, and dogs, no medical certificate required
- Race pack with bib, technical shirt, medal, and gym bag
- Charity Village at the finish line
Prices Rome Fun Run 2026
Practical information — Rome Fun Run
Getting there
The start and finish area is located at the Circus Maximus, served by the Circo Massimo metro station (Line B). Numerous bus lines serve the area, which is subject to traffic closures and diversions during the event: we recommend reaching the city center by public transport.
Registration
Registration can be completed online via the official Run Rome The Marathon website or through partner charity associations. The race bib grants access to the race pack, which includes a technical shirt, medal, and various gadgets.
Tips
Arrive early and wear comfortable shoes and sportswear. Since it is a non-competitive event, you are welcome to walk the course: it is a fantastic opportunity for a family day out in the open air in the heart of Rome.
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Where does it take place — Rome Fun Run
Circo Massimo
Via dei Cerchi, 00186 Roma