The 10 Best Sport Events in Berlin in 2026

Berlin is a sports city through and through. It's not just professionals who run, jump, swim, celebrate, and cheer here—spectators and amateur athletes also find events to get excited about every year. From major international competitions to unusual niche sports: Berlin lives and breathes sports.

Here are the 10 sporting events you shouldn't miss in Berlin, including my personal impressions and tips.

1. Berlin Half Marathon (March 29, 2026)

Over 30,000 runners from all over the world race through Berlin – past the Victory Column, Museum Island, and the TV Tower. Spectators stand shoulder to shoulder and cheer loudly for the runners.

The city pulsates. It's one of those days when Berlin feels like one big, happy village.

My tip: Stand on Karl-Marx-Allee – the atmosphere there is particularly electric.

2. ISTAF – International Stadium Festival (August 30, 2026)

World-class athletes deliver javelin throws over 90 meters, sprints at world record speed, and high jumps that seem weightless. All in the Olympic Stadium – goosebumps guaranteed.

It is one of the oldest athletics meetings in the world, but always state-of-the-art. Berlin atmosphere meets world class.

My tip: Take your time for the preliminary program – there you can see the stars up close.

3rd Berlin Marathon (September 27, 2026)

42.195 kilometers through the streets of Berlin – and the whole city goes wild. Elite runners fly past, amateur runners battle for their best times, and samba bands create a lively atmosphere.

The marathon is pure emotion. And when someone fights their way through the last few meters at the Brandenburg Gate, even I still get goosebumps after 20 years.

My tip: cheer on the runners at Wildenbruchplatz – it's a friendly atmosphere and super exciting.

4. Six Day Berlin (six-day race) (January 30-31, 2026)

Six days of fast-paced cycling races in the Velodrom Arena – with teams, sprints, music, and an atmosphere reminiscent of a sports nightclub.

Why I love it: It's athletically challenging, but at the same time it's a party.

My tip: Don't miss the Madison competitions – they're particularly tactical and crazy.

5. DFB Cup Final at the Olympic Stadium

Two teams, one cup, 75,000 fans. Year after year, the final brings incredible soccer energy to Berlin.

No matter who's playing, it always feels big, always festive. A bit like a national sports holiday.

My tip: Even without a ticket, it's worth visiting the Olympic Park – public viewing with a final feeling.

6. Generali Berlin Stair Run (March 29, 2026)

Athletes sprint through the interior of a high-rise building, floor by floor, up to the roof. It's crazy, to be honest.

My tip: If you want to watch, position yourself in the finish area – the exhaustion is real, and so are the emotions.

7. SwimRun Rheinsberg / Berlin (date varies, in spring or summer)

Athletes alternate between running and swimming through the countryside around Berlin – a combination of nature and extreme sport.

It's not a show, it's not a stadium – just sport, nature, and pure endurance.

My tip: If you want to compete yourself, take a team – it's twice as much fun together.

8. Berlin Wall Trail Run – 100 miles (August 15 and 16, 2026)

Ultramarathon runners run 100 miles along the historic Berlin Wall Trail. An emotional and athletic challenge.

Why I love it: It combines history and sport like no other event in Berlin.

My tip: The supporter zones are super friendly – perfect places to cheer on the runners.

9. NBA Berlin Game (January 15, 2026)

A regular NBA game is taking place in Berlin: the Orlando Magic are taking on the Memphis Grizzlies.

World-class basketball in the heart of Berlin – a rare opportunity to experience US professional basketball live.

My Tip: Secure your tickets in advance – games like this are in high demand in Berlin.

10. Formula E Berlin in Tempelhof (May 2, 2026)

Electric cars race across the runway at Tempelhof Airport. Technical, tactical, spectacular – and surprisingly loud.

My tip: You'll have the best view of the overtaking maneuvers from the grandstand.

Bonus. Full Moon Run Berlin (various dates, often in spring/summer)

After sunset, runners traverse the city or parts of it, illuminated only by the moon and streetlights.

Why I appreciate it: Magical: city, night, movement—a completely different Berlin experience.

My tip: Run with friends, bring a headlamp, and plan to enjoy hot tea or mulled wine afterward, depending on the season.