The Expo area for the VnExpress Marathon, renowned as the greenest race in the system, extends beyond a bib collection point. It serves as a vibrant space for runners, families, and tourists to enjoy, socialize, and experience. Held on 30/4, the event features many activities designed with a green spirit, aiming to foster community connections and energize athletes before the start.

Dan Quyet (far right) and other runners test the race course. Photo: VnExpress Marathon

Dan Quyet (far right) and other runners test the race course. Photo: VnExpress Marathon

A primary highlight at the Expo is the "Tram Dau An Ban Linh" check-in zone. Here, runners can capture moments with event-branded photo frames. This activity provides an energetic stop, allowing athletes, clubs, or families to create lasting memories before hitting the race course.

Participants pose in front of the frames, taking individual, couple, or group photos. A short video feature in the photo area records dynamic movements, such as raising hands, jumping, celebrating, or chanting slogans together. This ensures each runner receives not only still photos but also a short video clip to share before the race.

Beyond the check-in zone, entertainment activities are divided into two main stations: "Tram Nang Luong Xanh" (Green Energy Station) and "Tram Ket Noi Xanh" (Green Connection Station). At the Green Energy Station, runners and visitors can explore food stalls, refuel with light snacks, and rest after collecting their bibs.

Exploring cuisine is an attractive experience in Can Gio. Photo: Kha Thien Loc

Exploring cuisine is an attractive experience in Can Gio. Photo: Kha Thien Loc

Music is a highlight at this station, creating a youthful yet relaxing and positive atmosphere. DJ sets and live music performances are designed to energize the space while helping athletes unwind.

Meanwhile, the Green Connection Station focuses on interactive activities and games. This area invites runners, families, and visitors to participate in light physical challenges, puzzles, ring tosses, or precision tests. These activities are designed to be easy to play, suitable for various age groups, and encourage community engagement.

One game at this station is "Paradise Puzzle - Manh Ghep Kiet Tac" (Masterpiece Puzzle). Participants select a question from a wall, find the correct answer piece, and add it to a collective image. As the puzzle is completed, a picture depicting the event's green space emerges, allowing players to discover information visually.

Additionally, games like "Green Target - Muc Tieu Xanh" (Green Target) and "Hit the Paradise - Chinh Phuc Dich Xanh" (Conquer the Green Destination) offer light physical challenges. Players take turns tossing rings or hitting balls at a target board. These activities require dexterity, force control, and precision, aligning with the dynamic spirit of a running festival.

Expo activities extend until 9 PM on 30/4. The program concludes with an artistic fireworks display, serving as an opening salute for the next morning's conquest of the green Can Gio race course.

Visitors watch fireworks at the Can Gio spring festival. Photo: Thanh Tung

Visitors watch fireworks at the Can Gio spring festival. Photo: Thanh Tung

In recent years, many major marathons globally have expanded their ancillary experiences with music nights, light festivals, food zones, or art performances. This approach helps events cater not only to runners but also to accompanying family members and tourists.

"The Expo is no longer just a place for runners to collect race items; it has become an experiential festival for athletes, families, and visitors alike. In Can Gio, we aim to embrace this trend, extending the green spirit from the race course to music, food, and community, ensuring everyone begins their journey with enthusiasm," an event organizer stated.

Coinciding with the 30/4-1/5 holiday, the race quickly attracted over 5,000 athletes. Beyond competing on coastal and mangrove forest routes, participants can also utilize the long holiday to relax and explore local attractions like Vam Sat, Monkey Island, the Rung Sac special zone, or enjoy local seafood.

By Hai Long

The VnExpress Marathon Green Paradise Can Gio is organized by VnExpress newspaper, FPT Online Services Joint Stock Company, in collaboration with Vinhomes Green Paradise.

Vinhomes Green Paradise spans 2,870 hectares. It is planned as an international, ecological, smart, multi-functional coastal super-city, adhering to ESG++ standards. The urban area integrates residential, accommodation, commercial, tourism, healthcare, and educational spaces. It is also an ideal environment for running enthusiasts and is expected to become a new tourism icon, attracting 40 million visitors annually.