NYRR Midnight Run 2026 – New Year’s Eve in Central Park
December 31, 2026
Central Park, Manhattan
Welcome the New Year in classic New York fashion with the NYRR Midnight Run, a four-mile nighttime race through Central Park that begins just before midnight on New Year’s Eve.
Organized by New York Road Runners (NYRR), the Midnight Run combines running, music, fireworks, and New Year’s Eve celebrations in one of New York City’s most distinctive holiday traditions.
The race
The NYRR Midnight Run is a four-mile race through Central Park starting at 11:59 p.m. on December 31.
Runners head into Central Park shortly before midnight, with the race beginning as the city prepares to welcome the New Year. At midnight, fireworks light up the sky over Central Park, creating a spectacular backdrop for the runners.
The event attracts runners of different levels, from experienced athletes to people looking for an unusual way to celebrate New Year’s Eve.
A different way to celebrate New Year’s Eve
While millions of people gather around Times Square for the Ball Drop, the Midnight Run offers a completely different New York experience.
Instead of standing in a crowded Midtown street for hours, participants spend the final minutes of the year running through Central Park and begin 2027 on the move.
Location
The race takes place in Central Park, with the start and finish areas located near the southern section of the park.
Because the event takes place at night and around midnight, participants should check the official NYRR event information for the latest details regarding check-in, race procedures, transportation, and road closures.
New Year’s Eve with a difference
The NYRR Midnight Run is one of the city’s most unusual New Year’s Eve traditions. For runners and visitors looking for an alternative to Times Square, it offers the chance to welcome 2027 surrounded by Central Park, fellow runners, music, and midnight fireworks.
Event: NYRR Midnight Run
Date: December 31, 2026
Location: Central Park, Manhattan
Distance: 4 miles
Start time: 11:59 p.m.