La Course des Cafés 2025: the iconic waiters' and waitresses' race returns to Paris

Paris has no shortage of unusual and unusual activities, but this one is back after a 13-year absence: the Course des Cafés. Not everyone can take part: you must be a waiter or waitress in one of the capital's many cafés, and run almost four kilometers through the heart of the historic Marais shopping district. This Sunday, September 21, 2025, don't miss this exceptional race, where the aim is to keep your tray intact, with a glass of water, a coffee and a croissant put down, without spilling them!

• To be read
• This week's top deals in Paris and Île-de-France, from December 22 to 28, 2025
• The ultimate guide to running and road races in Paris and Île-de-France for 2026

Invented in the early 20th century, this fun race is organized by the City of Paris and Eau de Paris, in partnership with the Union des Métiers et des Industries de l'Hôtellerie Paris Île-de-France (UMIH) and the Groupement des Hôtelleries & Restaurations de France Paris Île-de-France (GHR). A fitting tribute to the heritage of Parisian cafés and bistros, following their recent inclusion in the inventory of intangible cultural heritage! The day's 400 runners will have to be dressed in the traditional codes of service and attempt the best possible time.

This year, three starts will punctuate the morning, with the opening of a general public category, allowing everyone to take part in this festive heritage race, not forgetting family activities and entertainment open to all without registration in the afternoon. See you at Place de l'Hôtel de Ville, to support your favorite retailer!

The program

• 7:30 a.m.: Opening of the Village on the Parvis de l'Hôtel de Ville and presentation of race numbers to professionals and apprentices
• 9:15 a.m.: Distribution of race numbers to participants in the general public race
• 9:30 a.m.: Start of the professionals' and apprentices' race
• 10:30 a.m.: Start of general public race
• 11:45 a.m.: Prize-giving ceremony for winners
• 2 p.m.: Children's race!
• 2:30 p.m.: Family relay
• 3:15 p.m.: Children's Race and Family Relay prize-giving ceremony
• 3:45 pm: Interactive quiz on thehistory of Paris bistros
• 4 p.m.: Musical break with a band on the Village stage
• 4 p.m.: Molkky tournament