This weekend, 11,000 runners will converge on Da Nang to conquer the VnExpress Marathon's coastal course. Beyond the race and exploring the city on foot, runners can participate in various cultural, culinary, and entertainment events.

A Tranquil Escape with Contemporary Art

For art enthusiasts, the "Origins of Heritage" exhibition at Cui Lu Art Space (Hoi An) is an ideal stop before and after race day. Running from July 15th to 21st, the exhibition showcases works created on-site by 9 visual artists, reflecting the memories, people, and landscapes along the Co Co River.

A view of the "Gom Thiep" exhibition at Cui Lu Art Space on 15/6. Photo: Cui Lu Art Space

A view of the "Gom Thiep" exhibition at Cui Lu Art Space on 15/6. Photo: Cui Lu Art Space

The exhibition offers a rich and emotive contemporary art experience, perfect for runners to relax, find balance, and discover new inspiration during their running and travel journey.

"Slow Living Market" - A Riverside Festival

From 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on July 19th, Namia River Retreat (Hoi An) will host the "Slow Living Market," a festival celebrating a peaceful and mindful lifestyle. The festival brings together artisans, curated craft stalls, workshops, and traditional craft exhibitions.

Immersing themselves in the tranquil riverside atmosphere, close to nature, will help runners maintain a stable mindset and create a positive state, preparing them for the race the next morning.

An Evening with Diva Ha Tran

That same evening, Diva Ha Tran's "Afternoon Tea Waiting for Someone" is a suitable choice for runners seeking a moment of reflection before the race. Taking place at 6 p.m. on the rooftop of Memory Lounge, the program combines melodies, storytelling, and an open space by the Han River, offering a gentle and relaxing musical experience.

Flying Pizza Show by an International Chef

Throughout race week (17-23/7), the Flying Pizza Festival at the Four Points by Sheraton will feature performances by Italian chef Pasqualino Barbasso. He is a two-time world champion in the art of "flying pizza," tossing and spinning pizza dough in the air to create a perfectly round, thin, and visually appealing shape without using a rolling pin.

Pasqualino Barbasso, the Italian chef and two-time world champion in "flying pizza." Photo: Facebook Pasqualino Barbasso

Pasqualino Barbasso, the Italian chef and two-time world champion in "flying pizza." Photo: Facebook Pasqualino Barbasso

This is a culinary and entertainment experience that will help runners recover physically and mentally after the race or during their pre-race rest. Guests can watch the skillful maneuvers live while enjoying freshly made pizza.

Meet a Manchester United Legend

Right after the race, on July 21st, runners and football fans can meet former Bulgarian striker Dimitar Berbatov at the "Together We Rise" event (taking place at Tien Son Sports Palace). The program includes a meet-and-greet, a raffle, and fundraising activities for children with cancer at the Da Nang Oncology Hospital.

Dimitar Berbatov won two Premier League titles with Manchester United. Photo: The Guardian

Dimitar Berbatov won two Premier League titles with Manchester United. Photo: The Guardian

The free event is initiated by the former Manchester United player himself. Berbatov was a member of the Manchester United squad that won the Champions League and the Premier League in 2008. He is known as the "Bulgarian Rose" for his artistic and elegant playing style.

Hai Long

The VnExpress Marathon Da Nang 2025 takes place on the morning of 20/7, with a route passing through many iconic tourist spots such as the Dragon Bridge, Thuan Phuoc Bridge, the Han River, and the Vo Nguyen Giap coastal route. This year, the starting time has been changed to 2:30 a.m. The finish line for the 42 km race has been moved to Bien Dong Park to expand the cheering area and enhance the runners' experience. See more news here.