Techcombank HCMC Marathon
Southern Vietnam · January
A January race through downtown HCMC and the riverside — one of Southeast Asia's largest marathons.

About this event
What happens
The Techcombank HCMC Marathon is a large-scale running event held annually in Ho Chi Minh City, with routes passing through iconic locations such as Nguyen Hue Walking Street and the Saigon River. Participants can choose from various race distances, including full marathon, half marathon, and shorter fun runs. The event typically starts early in the morning to avoid the midday heat.
What people do
Runners gather at the starting line near District 1, warming up and joining group stretches before the race begins. Spectators line major streets to cheer on participants, and volunteers provide water and support along the route. After the race, many people celebrate at local cafes or take photos at landmarks like the Bitexco Tower.
Practical tips
Arrive early to secure a good spot and avoid traffic congestion around the starting area. Wear lightweight clothing and bring sunscreen, as the weather in Ho Chi Minh City can be hot and humid. Public transportation is recommended, and participants should check the official website for route maps and registration details.
Related guides

Photographing Vietnam Festivals in 2026: Etiquette, Temple Rules, and Consent
This guide explains how to photograph Vietnam festivals in 2026 without causing offence. It covers dress, greetings, consent, temple and photo rules, regional differences, dates for Tết Nguyên Đán, Hùng Kings Commemoration, and Mid-Autumn Festival, plus practical transport and drone advice. Use it to plan respectful, useful images.

Mekong Delta festival calendar 2026: month-by-month weather, crowds, and prices for Vietnam festivals
This Mekong Delta festival calendar for 2026 breaks down each month's weather, crowd levels, price shifts, and closures for Vietnam festivals. It covers Tet, Chol Chnam Thmay, Ba Chua Xu, Ok Om Bok, and other dates, plus booking advice for transport and accommodation.

Co Loa Citadel Festival 2026: dates, transport and quiet hours in Vietnam festivals season
Co Loa Temple in Dong Anh District, Hanoi, hosts its festival from 22 February to 4 March 2026, with the main procession on 22 February. Guide Nguyen Van Minh explains free entry, the 6:30 to 8:30 am quiet window, transport from Hoan Kiem, and what is still unconfirmed.