Favorable climate for long-distance running

Historically, Ho Chi Minh City rarely experiences heavy rain in March; any precipitation is typically scattered. Temperatures range from 23-33 degrees Celsius, which is lower than the peak hot months of April and May.

Average humidity is also lower than the period from May onwards, when the rainy season begins. This helps runners minimize rapid dehydration, heat stroke, or sudden heart rate increases during competition.

Athletes of VM Ho Chi Minh City Midnight start at midnight. Photo: VnExpress Marathon

For night races like VnExpress Marathon Ho Chi Minh City Midnight, conditions become even more pleasant. After 10 p.m., temperatures typically drop to around 25-27 degrees Celsius, ideal for maintaining a steady pace, especially for distances of 10km or more.

Experience Vietnam's largest night race

VM Ho Chi Minh City Midnight, held on 22/3, is the country's largest night race. Competing at night helps runners avoid the heat and experience a quieter Ho Chi Minh City, with the atmosphere calming after 11 p.m. The illumination from prominent architectural landmarks further motivates runners.

The race course is expected to take athletes through Tao Dan Park, Independence Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral, Nguyen Hue Walking Street, and other familiar landmarks that take on a new appearance at night.

Ho Chi Minh City's central boulevards feature wide roads, with many sections well-lit, providing clear visibility for runners. In darker areas, organizers typically deploy motorcycles or electric cars for illumination.

Runners stride through Nguyen Hue Walking Street at night. Photo: VnExpress Marathon

The post-Tet "reboot"

After a year of racing, most runners plan to rest with friends and family during the Lunar New Year (Tet) holiday. Training routines often ease during this time. Held three weeks after Tet, VM Ho Chi Minh City Midnight becomes an ideal "springboard" for runners to kick off their new season.

In 2025, 12,000 runners registered, making it Vietnam's largest night running event. This year, just 20 days after bib sales opened, 9,000 people had signed up. This demonstrates the significant demand for early-year races in Ho Chi Minh City. Participating in a large-scale running event with friends at the start of the year also fosters connection and serves as a new year's good luck ritual for runners.

Many athletes choose the night race to kick off the new year. Photo: VnExpress Marathon

An ideal time to combine tourism and sports

Ho Chi Minh City's dry weather in March is suitable for sightseeing activities, not just running. As one of the country's largest tourist destinations, Ho Chi Minh City offers shopping centers, museums, and art spaces, alongside a rich night culinary culture.

For runners from the northern or central regions, where early in the year can still be cold or drizzly, Ho Chi Minh City provides a warm escape. March is not peak tourist season, helping runners optimize accommodation and travel costs.

After Tet, Ho Chi Minh City is often vibrant, welcoming the new year. Streets still display festive decorations, and the work pace has not yet fully intensified. This is an ideal time for visitors to experience the city's unique charm.

Lan Anh

Currently, the Ho Chi Minh City Night Run is open for early bird registration, with prices: 560,000 VND for 5km, 790,000 VND for 10km, 1.05 million VND for 21km, and 1.15 million VND for 42km. After 20/1, prices will move to the next phase and increase closer to race day. Athletes can register here.