San Silvestre Vallecana 2024-2025 in Madrid

Every year on December 31, Madrid hosts one of Spain's most famous athletic events, the San Silvestre Vallecana. Established in 1964, this annual race has become a cherished tradition, drawing thousands of runners to close out the year with a festive 6.2-mile (10-km) run through the heart of Madrid. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and scenic route, the San Silvestre Vallecana is notable not only for its size but also for holding the prestigious IAAF Gold Race Running Label, a designation shared by only a few 10K races worldwide.

Race Format and Participants

The San Silvestre Vallecana is divided into two main events: the San Silvestre Popular and the San Silvestre Vallecana Internacional. The Popular race, a fun run that welcomes participants over 16 years of age, is designed for recreational runners and features a wave start, which helps manage the large number of participants. This portion of the race typically begins at 4:55 pm on Avenida de Concha Espina, with runners starting at staggered intervals to ensure safety and comfort along the route.

The Vallecana Internacional, on the other hand, is a more competitive race limited to 2,000 top-performing athletes. According to the organizers, runners must meet qualifying times (under 39 minutes for men and 45 minutes for women) to be eligible for this elite race. The Internacional begins at 7:55 pm and culminates at the Vallecas Stadium, where the fastest runners have the chance to cross the finish line to enthusiastic cheers from supporters.

Course Highlights

The race is set against the vibrant urban backdrop of Madrid, beginning at Plaza de los Sagrados Corazones and concluding at Calle de Candilejas in Vallecas. The San Silvestre Vallecana’s 6.2-mile (10-km) route offers runners a unique view of Madrid. As participants progress, they pass by some of Madrid’s most iconic landmarks, including the Puerta de Alcalá, Cibeles Fountain, and the Paseo del Arte. The course is designed to be accessible, as most of it is downhill, making it manageable even for those who are not professional runners.

San Silvestre Mini

For children up to the age of 16, a special race known as the San Silvestre Mini is organized on December 28. This event, held at the Paseo del Prado, is entirely charitable, with proceeds supporting the Gasol Foundation, which promotes healthy lifestyles among youth.

Tickets

The entry fee for the San Silvestre Vallecana race is approximately €27 for the 10K distance. Registration typically opens several weeks in advance, and the deadline for registration is often in mid-December. ue to the high turnout, early registration is recommended.

Location and Accessibility

The race is set against the vibrant urban backdrop of Madrid, beginning at Plaza de los Sagrados Corazones and concluding at Calle de Candilejas in Vallecas. Madrid’s excellent public transport system makes it easy for participants and supporters to access the event locations, with nearby metro and bus stations providing convenient connectivity.

History

The San Silvestre Vallecana has grown significantly since its inception in 1964, now celebrating its 60th anniversary. In recent years, participation has reached over 40,000 runners, illustrating the event’s enduring popularity and festive spirit. The 2023 edition saw victories from Ethiopian runners Berihu Aregawi and Ababel Yeshaneh, adding to the event’s legacy as a stage for world-class athletes.