The Royal Canal Odyssey will return on Saturday 13 June 2026, bringing runners, walkers and cyclists on a unique Bloomsday-inspired journey from Sandycove through Dublin and onto Mullingar along the Royal Canal.
Beginning at the James Joyce Tower in Sandycove at 6am, the event follows a route through the heart of Dublin, passing Ulysses landmarks and into the Midlands, tracing the spirit of movement, conversation and adventure that runs through both the canal itself and the wider landscape of James Joyce’s writing.
First held in 2025, the Royal Canal Odyssey has become something greater than a long-distance challenge. People joined for everything from short social sections to the full 102.5km route, with people dipping in and out at different points along the canal throughout the day. What has emerged is a moving community experience shaped by endurance, storytelling, humour and shared moments along one of Ireland’s most historic waterways.
This year’s event will once again welcome participants of all abilities and experience levels. Some will take on the full distance from Sandycove to Mullingar, while others will join for 5km, 10km or different stretches along the route. With train stations located throughout the canal corridor, you can easily join or leave at various points during the day.
The journey will conclude in Mullingar on Bloomsday weekend, a fitting destination given the town’s place within the wider world and imagination of Joyce’s work.
Register Now
Registration for the Royal Canal Odyssey 2026 is now open and free for everyone. An optional commemorative t-shirt is also available for those who wish to mark the occasion.