VnExpress Marathon Hanoi Midnight 2026

VnExpress Marathon Hanoi Midnight 2026 returns to the Vietnamese capital on 29 November as one of northern Vietnam's major road-running events. First staged in November 2020, Hanoi Midnight introduced the VnExpress Marathon system's overnight racing format and was described by the organiser as Vietnam's first night marathon. The 2025 race drew around 10,000 participants, including more than 1,000 international runners from 43 countries and territories, giving the event a strong destination-race profile as well as a large domestic following.

The programme covers 5K, 10K, half marathon and full marathon distances. Rather than using a conventional early-morning start, races leave from around midnight into the early hours, taking runners through a quieter version of central Hanoi. Current organiser coverage highlights Hoan Kiem Lake, the Hanoi Opera House and Old Quarter as characteristic parts of the night-running experience. The 21K reaches the Ba Dinh area during the night, while the 42K route is described as crossing two bridges over the Red River before returning as the city begins to wake.

The official event hub is Tran Nhan Tong Walking Street in Hanoi. Race-kit collection is scheduled for 27 and 28 November, with race day on Sunday 29 November. The final category-specific flag-off timetable has not yet been published in the live 2026 organiser schedule, so runners should check the official site again before race weekend.

Registration opened on 4 September and is scheduled to close on 19 November, subject to capacity. The current Early Bird phase runs from 25 September to 15 October, followed by Regular and Late phases. Group discounts are also published for groups of 20 or more.

PUMA remains the event's strategic apparel partner for 2026. Every distance receives an official PUMA race shirt, designed for night running with a reflective detail on the back, while 21K and 42K finishers are also scheduled to receive PUMA finisher shirts. Final 2026 cut-offs, detailed category wave times and other race-day operational information should be confirmed from the organiser as further notices are released.