Runners will soon be able to register for this year’s Nos Galan Road Races in Mountain Ash, with places starting from £8.
Registration for the world-famous New Year’s Eve event will open at 10am on Monday, September 14.
Race spaces will be released in three stages to give as many people as possible the opportunity to secure a place. Further batches will become available at midday on Monday, September 21, and at 4pm on Monday, September 28.
Entry fees have been frozen for 2026, with children’s places starting from £8 inclusive of the booking fee.
Founded in 1958, the Nos Galan Road Races celebrate the life and achievements of legendary Welsh runner Guto Nyth Brân.
The event has become one of Wales’ best-known sporting traditions, bringing together elite athletics, family entertainment and Welsh heritage. Thousands of runners and spectators travel to Mountain Ash each year to take part in the celebrations.
Race categories for 2026
This year’s programme will include:
- Elite Men’s 5K
- Elite Women’s 5K
- Fun Run 5K, with fancy dress optional
- Children’s 600m races for ages eight to nine and 10 to 11
- Children’s 1.2K races for ages 12 to 13 and 14 to 15
The children’s races will begin the evening before the arrival of the celebrity Mystery Runner, who will carry the Nos Galan Torch and light the beacon in the centre of Mountain Ash.
Welsh football legend Jess Fishlock MBE performed the role in 2025. Previous Mystery Runners have included Gareth Thomas CBE, Professor Laura McAllister CBE, Linford Christie MBE, Nigel Owens MBE, Chris Coleman OBE and James Hook.
The identity of the 2026 Mystery Runner has not yet been revealed.
A fireworks display will follow the arrival of the Mystery Runner before attention turns to the Fun Run and elite races.
Councillor Ann Crimmings, Leader of Rhondda Cynon Taf Council and Chair of the Nos Galan Road Races Committee, said:
“Nos Galan is one of Wales’ most iconic sporting events and a proud tradition that brings communities together to celebrate our rich heritage while looking ahead to the New Year. Every year, thousands of runners, supporters and visitors come to Mountain Ash to be part of this unique occasion, creating an incredible atmosphere that makes Nos Galan so special.
“We are delighted to be opening registrations for this year’s races and would encourage anyone thinking of taking part to secure their place as early as possible. Whether you’re an experienced runner aiming for a personal best, taking part in the Fun Run with friends and family, or cheering from the sidelines, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
“From the arrival of the Mystery Runner and the lighting of the torch to the races themselves and the spectacular fireworks display, Nos Galan offers an unforgettable way to welcome the New Year! We look forward to welcoming participants and visitors from across Wales and beyond to Mountain Ash for another fantastic New Years celebration.”
Registration will be available from 10am on Monday, September 14, through the Nos Galan website at www.nosgalan.co.uk. Updates will also be shared through the Nos Galan Road Races Facebook page.
