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INDONESIA’S END-OF-YEAR RUNNING BOOM: 30+ RACES YOU CAN’T MISS BEFORE 2026

From Borobudur to Bali’s beaches, here’s how Indonesia is turning running into the ultimate lifestyle, festival, and tourism trend to close out 2025.

17.09.2025
BY MAXWELL SOETOMO
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Running isn’t just a workout anymore — it’s become a lifestyle movement across Indonesia. And as 2025 winds down, the running scene is exploding with events that blend sport, culture, travel, and community vibes.

Whether you’re chasing a personal record, looking for a weekend adventure, or just want an excuse to travel, November and December are stacked with options: marathons at world-famous landmarks, fun runs by the beach, charity events, trail challenges, and even a Barbie-themed color run.

 
Why Everyone’s Running
It’s not just about fitness. These races have evolved into massive social events — part festival, part tourism, part wellness. Picture this: running past the ancient Borobudur Temple, dashing through coffee plantations in Semarang, or joining a sunrise race at Bali’s Pandawa Beach.

For beginners, short-distance fun runs and family-friendly categories are everywhere. For seasoned runners? Ultras like BTS100 at Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park or the UI Ultra in Depok will test your endurance.

 
Highlights You Shouldn’t Miss

  • Borobudur Marathon (Nov 16, Magelang, Central Java): A bucket-list race blending history, spirituality, and scenic routes around one of Indonesia’s most iconic temples.
  • BTS100 Ultra (Nov 8–9, East Java): The beast. Distances up to 170K across volcanic terrain.
  • Pertamina Eco RunFest (Nov 23, Jakarta): Run + music festival + eco-friendly theme = perfect weekend.
  • Papandayan Mountain Challenge (Nov 29–30, Garut): Trails through volcanic landscapes and lush forests.
  • Barbie Color Fun Run (Nov 23, Bali): Yes, it’s pink, it’s fun, and it’s Insta-worthy.
  • BCA CitraLand Marathon (Dec 7, Surabaya): A full-scale city marathon with options for all levels.
  • Multicultural Run Bali (Dec 28, Bali): Close the year with a beachside run celebrating diversity. 

Tourism Meets Fitness
Local governments and organizers are cashing in on the trend, using these runs to promote hidden gems like Latimojong Tourism Village in South Sulawesi, Banaran Coffee in Semarang, or the underrated trails of Banten. For participants, it’s the perfect excuse to combine exercise, sightseeing, and travel content for your socials.

The Bottom Line
As 2025 ends, Indonesia is proving that running is more than a sport — it’s a lifestyle movement bringing together fitness junkies, families, travelers, and even festival-goers. With over 30 major events lined up in just two months, there’s literally a run for everyone.

So lace up your sneakers, pick your destination, and end the year on a high — healthy, happy, and running toward 2026.

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