Finland Ice Marathon 2025
The largest and most famous celebration of winter sports in Kuopio
Dates: February 22, 2025
The Finland Ice Marathon is the oldest ice skating event in Finland. This event takes competitors on a 7.8 mi (12.5 km) lap on the natural ice of Kallavesi in Kuopio harbor. There is also a refreshment point with hot drinks and catering in the passenger harbor.
Finland Ice Marathon Participation
At the start of the race, you can find a large tent, which serves as a changing room for participants. There is even a mini-marathon for boys and girls aged 12 and under. Their laps vary from 1,640 ft (500 m) to 1.2 mi (2 km) according to the age category.
Anyone willing to take part in the marathon needs a special license from the Finish Ice Skating Federation. Usually, the ice marathon itself takes place from morning until afternoon. Still, you will also find even more winter sports competitions like ice biking, ski jumping, kick-sledding, and the Nordic Combined World Cup. Altogether it is a huge celebration of winter sports!
Finland Ice Marathon 2025 Schedule
The day’s events kick off at 8 am with a 62.1 mi (100 km) skating race, challenging participants to push their endurance. This is followed at 10 am by a 31.1 mi (50 km) skating race, offering another intense competition. At 1 am, the program diversifies with a 15.5 mi (25 km) skating race alongside youth-oriented activities, including a 6.2 mi (10 km) youth skating event and a 1.2 mi (2 km) youth skating event for the youngest participants.
By noon, the focus shifts to alternative styles with the start of the 31.1 mi (50 km) Nordic skating and 31.1 mi (50 km) kick sled races, providing thrilling options for those seeking variety. At 1 pm, shorter distances come into play with the 15.5 mi (25 km)Nordic skiing and 15.5 mi (25 km) kick sled races.
For those not participating in races, the program invites everyone to enjoy the ice and take time to skate freely until 4 pm, when the event concludes with the closing of the finish line and the end of timekeeping. This packed schedule ensures an engaging experience for athletes and spectators alike.