Race information, course maps and much more.
DIAMIR-Logo_WHITE_transparent.pdf
Welcome Message from the Prime Minister of Saxony
Dear running enthusiasts! The fascination with running is on the increase. More and more people are discovering running for themselves. You can get started at any age. There are no complicated rules, and all you need is a good pair of shoes. Add a good deal of patience, a dose of perseverance over the distance and, later on, some ambition with a view to your times, and you’ll find that you have already joined the running community – and find yourself in the best of company, whether you go it alone or as part of a group.
Lately, the half-marathon distance has been growing in popularity. More and more people are discovering this rather ambitious distance for themselves and training with a specific goal in mind. And anyone who has set a goal will eventually want to meet up with like-minded people and compete fairly on a popular race course.
It is generally known that running is healthy, clears the mind and strengthens the heart. It is becoming increasingly clear that running also brings people together. Moreover, taking part in a race is an excellent opportunity to get to know new cities. The DresdenHALF is such a good opportunity, and I was very happy to take on the patronage of this well-conceived sporting event with international appeal. It is a course of discovery: Each of the 13 miles to be completed represents a partner city of Dresden. Welcome to Dresden and the Free State of Saxony!
Michael Kretschmer
Prime Minister of Saxony and Patron of the DresdenHALF
Welcome Message from the Mayor of the City of Dresden
Half Marathon Premiere in Dresden
It’s my great pleasure to welcome everyone taking part in this brand new event in our city: When the start signal sounds on 6th September 2026, the runners will be setting off for the very first DresdenHALF. The Saxon capital is proud to join the ranks of attractive European cities presenting races over the popular half-marathon distance. I would here like to thank the organisers for their initiative and all supporters for their commitment.
The enthusiasm for running in Dresden is demonstrated not only by the multitude of events – Novaled City Run Dresden, VVO Upper Elbe Marathon, REWE Team Challenge Dresden, VSB Dresden Night Run, Dresden Marathon and others – but also by the growing numbers of participants and spectators. The DresdenHALF is thus a welcome addition to the calendar. The route winds its way through the heart of the city – from the World Trade Center to the Rudolf Harbig Stadium, past the Palais in Grosser Garten Park and via the city district Striesen, before returning along the river to the Saxon State Parliament, with fantastic views of the Elbe Palaces and the historical city skyline above the Terrassenufer quayside.
I’m especially pleased that the runners will also be able to experience the diversity of Dresden’s twin cities along the 21.1-kilometre course. Each race mile is dedicated symbolically to a different twin city: Coventry, Wrocław, Skopje, Ostrava, Brazzaville, Florence, Hamburg, Rotterdam, Strasbourg, Salzburg, Columbus and Hangzhou. The individual stages promise a unique musical and cultural atmosphere, and with Dresden itself represented over the final mile, the course as a whole becomes a celebration of our friendship bonds.
On this note, let’s all look forward to an impressive opening ceremony in the Heinz Steyer Stadium, successful competition and ideal running weather for the premiere of the DresdenHALF!
Dirk Hilbert
Mayor of the City of Dresden and Patron of the DresdenHALF
SATURDAY
EWG Dresden5K, KidsRUN & BambiniRUN
On race day, you can travel to and from the event conveniently using public transport.
VVO KombiTicket: Your race number also serves as your public transport ticket on the day of the event (valid until 4:00 a.m. the following day) within the Dresden fare zone. This means you can use local trains, S-Bahn services, trams, buses and ferries free of charge.
Please note: The ticket is valid for you personally only (e.g. bicycles and dogs are not included). Please also make sure to carry a valid ID document with you.
There are also several bicycle parking spaces available near the start and finish area.
If you are travelling by car, please use official parking areas only. Otherwise, you risk receiving a parking fine or having your car towed. Please note that we do not provide any parking facilities.
Friday, 4 September 2026 | 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the World Trade Centre Dresden
>>> On 1 September 2026, you will receive your personal race pass from us by email as a PDF attachment. This race pass entitles you to collect your race pack from the race pack collection point. Race packs will only be handed out without a race pass if you present your ID card when collecting them in person. Please print out the race pass or show it to our team on your mobile phone when collecting your race pack.
Friday, 4 September 2026 | 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Saturday, 5 September 2026 | 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Look forward to an exciting Athlete Talk with Rabea and Deborah Schöneborn, Simon Boch and Tom Thurley. Together, we’ll get ready for the DresdenHALF and take a look ahead at the big day.
- 2026: European Championships silver medal – Marathon Team
- 2026: 21st place, European Championships Marathon – 2:12:55
- 2025: 24th place, Valencia Marathon – 2:08:55 (PB)
- 2024: German Half Marathon Champion – 1:01:15 (PB)
- 2024: European Championships silver medal – Half Marathon Team
- 2022: European Championships silver medal – Marathon Team
- 2026: European Championships silver medal – Marathon Team
- 2026: 37th place, European Championships Marathon – 2:18:56
- 2026: German Marathon Champion – 2:11:02 (PB)
- 2026: 2nd place, German Half Marathon Championships – 1:04:24
- 2025: 12th place, Frankfurt Marathon – 2:11:19
- 2025: 3rd place, Cologne Half Marathon – 1:03:56 (PB)
- 2024: 9th place, Mainz Half Marathon – 1:04:49
- 2025: 3rd place, German Marathon Championships – 2:29:30
- 2024: 4th place, Houston Marathon – 2:24:54 (PB)
- 2023: 3rd place, Seville Half Marathon – 1:09:41 (PB)
- 2023: 5th place, Seville Marathon – 2:25:52
- 2022: European Championships gold medal – Marathon Team
- 2021: Olympic Games participant
- 2020: World Championships bronze medal – Half Marathon Team
- 2025: 2nd place, Bregenz Marathon – 2:36:49
- 2024: 13th place, Hamburg Marathon – 2:35:07
- 2023: 45th place, Valencia Marathon – 2:31:05
- 2022: 2nd place, Hannover Marathon – 2:27:35
- 2022: European Championships gold medal – Marathon Team
- 2021: 8th place, Berlin Half Marathon – 1:10:35 (PB)
- 2021: 3rd place, Enschede Marathon – 2:07:03
- 2020: World Championships bronze medal – Half Marathon Team
World Trade Center Dresden
At the EWG Dresden5K, it’s not just about the race – you’ll also get the perfect accessory for the colder months. Look forward to your exclusive EWG Dresden5K bobble hat to keep you warm before and after your race! You will receive your hat together with your race pack at Race Pack Collection.
You can also purchase merchandise, such as shirts and hoodies, when registering, afterwards via the link in your registration confirmation, or at the Expo. Available while stocks last.
For the EWG Dresden5K 2026, we have created a limited-edition event collection exclusively for all participants. You can order shirts and hoodies when registering or afterwards via the link in your registration confirmation. A selection of items will also be available to purchase at the Expo. Please note: The limited-edition collection is available while stocks last.
In addition, you can visit our official merchandise shop, where you’ll find timeless, modern products featuring the DresdenHALF design. Here, you can shop for high-quality merchandise independently of the limited-edition event collection.
dresdenhalf.teambro.de
DresdenHALF Online Shop
Discover our official DresdenHALF merchandise, featuring high-quality, modern adidas products. Whether for your next training run, your next event or everyday wear, the official merch shop offers functional and stylish pieces featuring the DresdenHALF design.
Kick off your training with the SUPERNOVA CHARGE! Comfort and guidance support you with every kilometre. Together with adidas and Dresdner Laufsportladen, we’ll help you move forward step by step – for a smooth, supported and motivating running experience on your way to the DresdenHALF.
Terrassenufer Dresden
Terrassenufer Dresden
Theaterplatz Dresden
Terrassenufer Dresden
To make it easy to find each other after crossing the finish line, you’ll find clearly visible, colourful meeting point signs (blue, yellow and pink) in the post-finish area. You can choose one of these signs as a designated meeting point with your team, friends or family.
Our tip: Agree on a meeting point before the start. Decide which coloured sign you’ll meet at after the race. This will make it quick and easy to find each other among all the participants and spectators – so you can celebrate your finish together.
True to our motto, “From the region, for the region,” Freiberger Brauhaus will be there to welcome you at the finish of the EWG Dresden5K and DresdenHALF. Our isotonic refreshments will be waiting for you: Freiberger Radler 0.0 and Freiberger 0.0.
The perfect refreshment after your run – alcohol-free, full of flavour and brewed with tradition. For everyone who gives it their all and wants to enjoy a refreshing drink afterwards. You run. We quench your thirst.
From now on, we’re at the starting line together: Oppacher Mineralquellen refreshes Laufszene events!
The products from Oppacher Mineralquellen are perfect for active people – whether as a refreshing drink after crossing the finish line or during your preparation. The mineral water from Upper Lusatia comes directly from the region: short distances, Saxon roots and the highest quality.
“Our motto, ‘Enjoy our home region,’ is more than just a slogan,” says owner Eric Schäffer. “When Oppacher brings joy to regional running events, we’re putting into practice exactly what we stand for.”
Changing tents and toilets are located right in the start and finish area. Baggage can also be left in the start and finish area.
All participants will receive their finisher's medal and personal certificate to download immediately after the race. At EWG Dresden5K, the net time is recorded (the time difference between crossing the start line and the finish line). The official rankings (1st - 10th) are determined based on gross times. The winners will be awarded on stage.
All participants will receive their finisher's medal and personal certificate to download immediately after the race. The DresdenHALF KidsRUN records the net time (the time difference between crossing the start line and the finish line). The official rankings (1st–10th) will be determined based on gross times. The winners (female & male, 1st–3rd place, without age groups) will be honoured on stage.
All participants will receive their finisher's medal and personal certificate to download immediately after the race. There is no timekeeping for the DresdenHALF BambiniRUN.
Awards Ceremony
- 9:30 a.m. KidsRUN
- 10:45 a.m. EWG Dresden5K
Get the feeling! The EWG Dresden5K is the perfect opportunity to dive into the electric atmosphere of the DresdenHALF weekend.
Whether you use it as a shakeout run, chasing a personal best, or just for the fun of it, this 5k lets you be a part of the big event–experience the energy, the crowd, and the thrill of crossing the official DresdenHALF finish line.
At KidsRUN, young runners experience what it means to be part of a major running event. With cheering spectators along the route, race numbers on their chests and crossing the finish line at DresdenHALF – it's an impressive and motivating experience.
A 400-metre course made just for young runners. The goal? Pure fun and the joy of running for the very first time!
Whether running ahead or holding a parent’s hand, or taking one small step at a time–what matters most is being part of it. The kids will be cheered on by our mascot, Lenny and even the littlest participants cross the finish line of the DresdenHALF with wide eyes and huge smiles.
PLEASE NOTE: The course is subject to change at short notice.
Please be considerate of your fellow runners, avoid risky overtaking manoeuvres and make way for faster runners.
Your net time will be recorded (the time between crossing the start line and crossing the finish line). The official rankings for 1st–10th place will be determined based on gun time.
Timing is recorded using a disposable timing chip integrated into your race number. Your race times and rankings will be available online on the website shortly after the race.
Every emotion, every step and every smile will be captured by the professional photographers from WITISI.PHOTO. The team will be positioned along the course to capture your favourite moments. After the race, you can easily find your personal photos on WITISI.PHOTO using a selfie or your race number. So don’t forget – smile, wave and enjoy every moment of your race!
And of course, we’re not only capturing the DresdenHALF weekend in photos! Flightseeing will be there with their cameras to capture the special atmosphere, the emotions along the course and your best running moments. After the event, the footage will be turned into a memorable highlight video, giving you the chance to relive the event and its special moments all over again.
All the essential information for planning your journey to Dresden, as well as helpful tips on how to explore the city’s sights affordably and sustainably.
Exclusive Hotel Offer: Central, modern and perfect for active guests. Just a few steps from the start and finish area, the lifestyle hotel offers relaxing comfort, balanced cuisine and stylish design. The ideal place to stay for everyone looking to give their best at the DresdenHALF and recover in comfort afterwards.
Exclusively for DresdenHALF participants: 10% off your stay.
Exclusive Hotel Offer: Set within the Bellevue Gardens directly on the banks of the Elbe and overlooking Dresden’s historic Old Town, the Bilderberg Bellevue Hotel is the perfect base for your stay in Dresden. Its modern rooms and suites provide an ideal place to relax after a long run or a day of sightseeing.
Exclusively for DresdenHALF participants: 20% off the lowest flexible rate, including breakfast.
Exclusive Hotel Offer: Out of your pyjamas and into your running shoes! Stay right where the race begins: at Hotel Elbflorenz Dresden, directly next to the WTC and just a few steps from the start line. Start your day with a generous breakfast and, after the race, enjoy the perfect place to relax and put your feet up.
Exclusively for DresdenHALF participants: 15% off your stay with the booking code “Half26”.
Here you’ll find a wide range of active experiences within Dresden and in the surrounding region, including Saxon Switzerland.
SONNTAG
DresdenHALF
On race day, you can travel to and from the event conveniently using public transport.
VVO KombiTicket: Your race number also serves as your public transport ticket on the day of the event (valid until 4:00 a.m. the following day) within the Dresden fare zone. This means you can use local trains, S-Bahn services, trams, buses and ferries free of charge.
Please note: The ticket is valid for you personally only (e.g. bicycles and dogs are not included). Please also make sure to carry a valid ID document with you.
There are also several bicycle parking spaces available near the start and finish area.
If you are travelling by car, please use official parking areas only. Otherwise, you risk receiving a parking fine or having your car towed. Please note that we do not provide any parking facilities.
Friday, 4 September 2026 | 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the World Trade Centre Dresden
Saturday, 5 September 2026 | 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the World Trade Center Dresden
>>> On 1 September 2026, you will receive your personal race pass from us by email as a PDF attachment. This race pass entitles you to collect your race pack from the race pack collection point. Race packs will only be handed out without a race pass if you present your ID card when collecting them in person. Please print out the race pass or show it to our team on your mobile phone when collecting your race pack.
There are three start corrals: A, B and C. You will be allocated to a corral based on your stated target time. Your start corral is printed on your race number.
The start times for the start corrals are: A – 9:00 a.m., B – 9:10 a.m., C – 9:20 a.m.
Friday, 4 September 2026 | 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Saturday, 5 September 2026 | 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Saturday, 4:00 p.m. | Talk with the Athletes
World Trade Center Dresden
At the DresdenHALF, it’s not just about the race – you’ll also receive the perfect accessory to go with it. Look forward to your exclusive DresdenHALF arm warmers! You’ll receive them together with your race pack at Race Pack Collection.
You can also purchase merchandise, such as shirts and hoodies, when registering, afterwards via the link in your registration confirmation, or at the Expo. Available while stocks last.
For the DresdenHALF 2026, we have created a limited-edition event collection exclusively for all participants. You can order shirts and hoodies when registering or afterwards via the link in your registration confirmation. A selection of items will also be available to purchase at the Expo. Please note: The limited-edition collection is available while stocks last.
In addition, you can visit our official merchandise shop, where you’ll find timeless, modern products featuring the DresdenHALF design. Here, you can shop for high-quality merchandise independently of the limited-edition event collection.
dresdenhalf.teambro.de
DresdenHALF Online Shop
Discover our official DresdenHALF merchandise, featuring high-quality, modern adidas products. Whether for your next training run, your next event or everyday wear, the official merch shop offers functional and stylish pieces featuring the DresdenHALF design.
Kick off your training with the SUPERNOVA CHARGE! Comfort and guidance support you with every kilometre. Together with adidas and Dresdner Laufsportladen, we’ll help you move forward step by step – for a smooth, supported and motivating running experience on your way to the DresdenHALF.
World Trade Center Dresden
Terrassenufer Dresden
To make it easy to find each other after crossing the finish line, you’ll find clearly visible, colourful meeting point signs (blue, yellow and pink) in the post-finish area. You can choose one of these signs as a designated meeting point with your team, friends or family.
Our tip: Agree on a meeting point before the start. Decide which coloured sign you’ll meet at after the race. This will make it quick and easy to find each other among all the participants and spectators – so you can celebrate your finish together.
True to our motto, “From the region, for the region,” Freiberger Brauhaus will be there to welcome you at the finish of the EWG Dresden5K and DresdenHALF. Our isotonic refreshments will be waiting for you: Freiberger Radler 0.0 and Freiberger 0.0.
The perfect refreshment after your run – alcohol-free, full of flavour and brewed with tradition. For everyone who gives it their all and wants to enjoy a refreshing drink afterwards. You run. We quench your thirst.
From now on, we’re at the starting line together: Oppacher Mineralquellen refreshes Laufszene events!
The products from Oppacher Mineralquellen are perfect for active people – whether as a refreshing drink after crossing the finish line or during your preparation. The mineral water from Upper Lusatia comes directly from the region: short distances, Saxon roots and the highest quality.
“Our motto, ‘Enjoy our home region,’ is more than just a slogan,” says owner Eric Schäffer. “When Oppacher brings joy to regional running events, we’re putting into practice exactly what we stand for.”
Changing tents and toilets are located in both the start and finish areas.
When registering, you can choose between free baggage storage in the finish area or receiving a towel at the finish. Baggage can be dropped off in the finish area at the following times:
Saturday, 5 September 2026 | 12 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Sunday, 6 September 2026 | from 7 a.m.
World Trade Center Dresden
Terrassenufer Dresden
All participants will receive their finisher's medal and personal certificate to download immediately after the race. At DresdenHALF, the net time is recorded (the time difference between crossing the start line and the finish line). The official rankings (1st - 10th) are determined based on gross times. The winners will be awarded on stage.
Awards Ceremony
- 10:30 a.m. DresdenHALF
The DresdenHALF is an experience and your personal challenge!
Run 21.1 km through the heart of one of Germany's most beautiful cities and be inspired by its many different facets: from the picturesque old town with its world-famous buildings such as the Semperoper, the Zwinger and the Frauenkirche, to the beautiful park of the Großer Garten.
PLEASE NOTE: The course is subject to change at short notice.
You can find the exact locations of the refreshment points on the course map above.
- Gels from 4Endurance will be available for you at km 12
- Water is available at all 5 refreshment points along the route
- Powerade is also available at km 12 & 16
Toilets are located at every refreshment point along the route.
Please be considerate of your fellow runners, avoid risky overtaking manoeuvres and make way for faster runners.
Your net time will be recorded (the time between crossing the start line and crossing the finish line). The official rankings for 1st–10th place will be determined based on gun time.
Timing is recorded using a disposable timing chip integrated into your race number. Your race times and rankings will be available online on the website shortly after the race.
To help you follow your friends, family members and fellow runners live during the DresdenHALF, we offer live tracking. We record the start time, split times at 5 km, 10 km and 15 km, and of course the finish time. Between these timing points, each runner’s current position on the course is estimated based on their recorded times. This allows you to follow your runner as a dot on the course map throughout the race.
The course map and all recorded times will be available live on 6 September on the DresdenHALF website, in the results section for each individual runner.
The DresdenHALF is one of the World Ranking Competitions recognised by World Athletics. For you, this means that your race time and finishing position can count towards the World Rankings. These rankings play a role in the allocation of starting places for numerous international championships, alongside the traditional qualifying standards. Requirements for recognition as a World Ranking Competition include, amongst other things, an officially measured course and the competition being held in accordance with World Athletics regulations.
The DresdenHALF route is a fast one – perfect for setting a new personal best. To help you, we’ll have pacemakers on hand. Keep an eye out for your target finishing time (1:30 h, 1:40 h, 1:50 h, 2:00 h or 2:10 h) in the starting area and simply join the relevant runner.
Every emotion, every step and every smile will be captured by the professional photographers from WITISI.PHOTO. The team will be positioned along the course to capture your favourite moments. After the race, you can easily find your personal photos on WITISI.PHOTO using a selfie or your race number. So don’t forget – smile, wave and enjoy every moment of your race!
And of course, we’re not only capturing the DresdenHALF weekend in photos! Flightseeing will be there with their cameras to capture the special atmosphere, the emotions along the course and your best running moments. After the event, the footage will be turned into a memorable highlight video, giving you the chance to relive the event and its special moments all over again.
A special highlight of the run: Dresden's twin towns are represented on the 21.1-kilometre course. Each of the 13 miles is symbolically dedicated to a town – making each stage a little experience in itself!
All residents of Dresden and visitors to the city are warmly invited to help make the DresdenHALF a success, line the route, cheer on the runners and soak up the atmosphere. Anyone who wishes to can also play an active part in organising one of the city’s themed sections – turning the DresdenHALF into a celebration of exercise, community and international friendship.
S-Bahnhof Freiberger Straße (Near the Start Area) – Straßburger Platz – Comeniusplatz – Karcherallee
→ 11 min. – 15 min.
Karcherallee – Comeniusplatz – Straßburger Platz – Postplatz (Near the Finish Area)
→ 11 min.
S-Bahnhof Freiberger Straße (Near the Start Area) – Mosen Straße – Bergmann Straße
→ 17 min.
S-Bahnhof Freiberger Straße (Near the Start Area) – Lene–Glatzer Straße
→ 20 min.
Bergmann Straße – Mosen Straße – Postplatz (Near the Finish Area)
→ 14 min.
Lene–Glatzer Straße – Postplatz (Near the Finish Area)
→ 15 min.
All the essential information for planning your journey to Dresden, as well as helpful tips on how to explore the city’s sights affordably and sustainably.
Exclusive Hotel Offer: Central, modern and perfect for active guests. Just a few steps from the start and finish area, the lifestyle hotel offers relaxing comfort, balanced cuisine and stylish design. The ideal place to stay for everyone looking to give their best at the DresdenHALF and recover in comfort afterwards.
Exclusively for DresdenHALF participants: 10% off your stay.
Exclusive Hotel Offer: Set within the Bellevue Gardens directly on the banks of the Elbe and overlooking Dresden’s historic Old Town, the Bilderberg Bellevue Hotel is the perfect base for your stay in Dresden. Its modern rooms and suites provide an ideal place to relax after a long run or a day of sightseeing.
Exclusively for DresdenHALF participants: 20% off the lowest flexible rate, including breakfast.
Exclusive Hotel Offer: Out of your pyjamas and into your running shoes! Stay right where the race begins: at Hotel Elbflorenz Dresden, directly next to the WTC and just a few steps from the start line. Start your day with a generous breakfast and, after the race, enjoy the perfect place to relax and put your feet up.
Exclusively for DresdenHALF participants: 15% off your stay with the booking code “Half26”.
GREAT EVENTS NEED GREAT PARTNERS
RACEINFO