The Amsterdam Marathon Expo is an exciting three-day event that should not be missed if you’re planning to run the Amsterdam Marathon or simply want to soak in the race’s atmosphere.
This bustling expo boasts over 50 exhibitors, showcasing the latest trends in running apparel, footwear, nutrition, accessories, and cutting-edge technology.
For runners, the Amsterdam Marathon Expo is a key pre-race event, much like the buildup to the Amsterdam Marathon. It serves as the largest and most anticipated running expo in the country.
Here, participants have the chance to connect with fellow athletes, explore the newest running products and innovations, and collect essential items such as their race bibs.
In this article, we’ll provide you with comprehensive information about the Amsterdam Marathon Expo, including directions on how to reach the venue, details about parking options, and useful tips for navigating this exciting event.
Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or just beginning your running journey, the Expo is a must-visit destination on your way to the Amsterdam Marathon.
Personally, I am so excited to be heading to Amsterdam this year and experiencing the expo and race firsthand.
Let’s get started…
Where Is The Amsterdam Marathon Expo Located?
The international Marathon Expo powered by Run2Day will take place at the sports venue Sporthallen Zuid.
This is where you can also collect your race bib. You’ll find a wide range of top brands from the sporting goods industry showcasing the latest sportswear, running shoes, and other equipment at attractive prices.
With over 50 national and international exhibitors in attendance, you’ll have plenty to explore. Additionally, the sponsors and suppliers of the TCS Amsterdam Marathon will have a presence at the Expo.
Here are the operating hours for the Amsterdam Marathon Expo as listed on their website:
- Thursday: 13:00 – 20:00
- Friday: 10:00 – 20:00
- Saturday: 09:00 – 19:00
- Sunday (race day): 07:00 – 13:00 (bib number pickup only)
What You Need To Know About Collecting Your Bib Number
In early October, you can expect to receive an email with instructions on how to collect your bib number at the Marathon Expo.
Bib numbers will be distributed in Hall 3 at Sporthallen Zuid. To avoid potential crowds, we recommend picking up your bib number on either Thursday or Friday.
About The Mizuno Race Shirt
If you’re participating in the full marathon, you’ll receive a Mizuno Race Shirt.
If you’ve pre-ordered the shirt, you can pick it up at the Expo by using the QR code provided in your personal dashboard at the ‘Pre-ordered Race Shirt’ stand.
There’s also an option to buy a Mizuno Race Shirt for €35.00 (VAT included) at the merchandising stand in Hall 1 of the Marathon Expo, while supplies last.
Please be aware that there’s only one cash machine at the Marathon Expo, so it’s advisable to have card payments ready, as most stands will accept card payments.
Why You Should Not Miss The Amsterdam Marathon Expo
Going to the Amsterdam Marathon Expo is more than just an opportunity for packet pickup; it’s a chance to dive into the excitement, connect with fellow runners and fitness enthusiasts, and soak up the pre-race buzz.
The Expo ramps up the overall experience and builds anticipation as you get closer to the big race day.
When you attend the Expo, you can gain valuable insights, discover new running products and tech, and connect with a supportive community of like-minded folks.
But here’s the golden rule to remember: don’t try anything new on race day.
While it might be tempting to check out new products and nutrition at the Expo, make sure you don’t use any of them on race day.
Save those new items for your future training sessions, so you can practice and get comfortable with them before risking them on the big day.
Also, be cautious about products like massage guns and recovery gadgets you might find at the Expo. If you’re not familiar with these devices, it’s best to skip trying them out there.
You want your muscles to be in top shape for the race, and using unfamiliar massage devices, especially if they’re too intense, can affect your performance negatively.
So, it’s safer to avoid them at the Expo to prevent any issues on race day.
Now let’s look at what transportation options you have to get to the Expo
How To Get To The Amsterdam Marathon Expo
I suggest using public transportation to and from the marathon Expo. Here are some transportation options:
By Metro
The nearest Metro stops are Station Zuid and, Amstelveenseweg Lines 50 and 51.
Signs will guide you to the Olympic Stadium and the Sporthallen Zuid sports complex from these stations. They’re both within 10 mins of walking distance.
You can check for updates on metro services at www.gvb.nl.
By Tram and Bus:
For updates on changes to local tram and bus services on the days of the event, you can visit www.9292.nl and www.gvb.nl.
By Train:
The Olympic Stadium is within walking distance of Amsterdam Zuid station. You can follow the signs to reach the stadium. Check the NS Reisplanner for actual departure and arrival times. Note that there may be work on the train track on weekends, so check the NS Reisplanner for updates.
If you’re coming from the direction of Flevoland, Utrecht, Leiden, or Schiphol, take a train to Amsterdam Zuid station, then continue with Metro 50 in the direction of ‘Isolatorweg’ (departures every 10 minutes) and get off at the ‘Amstelveenseweg‘ stop.
If you’re coming from the direction of Rotterdam, The Hague, Alkmaar, Zaandam, or Hoorn, travel to Amsterdam Sloterdijk Station, then take Metro 50 in the direction of ‘Gaasperplas’ (departures every 10 minutes) and get off at the ‘Amstelveenseweg‘ stop.
By Bike:
If you prefer to ride your bike, there’s a bicycle shed on the IJsbaanpad close to the After-Pressure-Happiness Bridge (Na-Druk-Geluk-Brug).
By Car:
If you’re driving to Amsterdam, you can park at the following locations during the marathon week:
- Bedrijventerrein ‘Schinkel’ Anthony Fokkerweg, 1059 CM Amsterdam
- P ArenA Burgemeester Stramanweg 130, 1101 EP Amsterdam (Take the metro at ArenA station, 7 mins walk)
- Parking Station Noord Nieuwe Leeuwarderweg 25, 1022 Amsterdam-Noord (Take the metro at Noord station, 9 mins walk)
Are You Traveling With A Group Or Family:
If you’re traveling with a group or family, you can purchase the GVB Group Day Ticket in the GVB app. This ticket allows up to 5 people to travel all day on GVB streetcars, buses, and subways.
Make Use Of The OV Chips
Consider using OVpay, which allows you to easily check in and out with your debit card, credit card, or mobile phone when using public transport.
You won’t need to buy a ticket in advance, and the cost of your ride will be debited from your account at the end of the day.
Make sure to have your OV chip card with sufficient credit for public transport. You can purchase a personalized chip online or an anonymous OV chip at a station.
To avoid queues at the ticket machine, consider charging your balance in advance.
What Is An OV Chip Card?
An OV-chipkaart, commonly referred to as an OV chip card, is a smart card used for public transportation in the Netherlands.
The term “OV” stands for “Openbaar Vervoer,” which means “public transport” in Dutch.
The OV-chip card is similar to a contactless payment card and is designed to make traveling on various forms of public transportation, such as trains, trams, buses, and metros, more convenient.
Here’s how an OV-chip card works:
- Loading Credit: You load credit onto the OV-chipkaart, either by purchasing travel credit or by adding a travel product (e.g., a monthly subscription) to the card.
- Checking In: When taking a trip, you check in by holding your OV-chipkaart near the card reader at the station’s or vehicle’s entrance. The system deducts the appropriate fare from the card’s balance.
- Traveling: Passengers can travel within the public transportation network, switching between different modes of transport if necessary.
- Checking Out: When exiting the vehicle or station, you check out by again holding their OV-chipkaart near the card reader. The system calculates the fare for the journey based on the distance traveled and deducts it from the card’s balance.
- Balance Management: Users can check their card’s balance, add more credit, or renew travel products at various locations, including stations, retail outlets, and online.
If you notice, you’re charged twice: when checking in and when checking out.
The reason for deducting the fare at both check-in and check-out is to ensure that you are charged accurately for the distance you have traveled.
This system allows you to switch between different modes of transportation during your trips without the need for separate tickets and ensures that you’re billed correctly based on your actual route.
It’s important to check in and check out correctly to avoid overcharging or issues with your OV chip card balance.
The OV chip card system has replaced traditional paper tickets on most forms of public transportation in the Netherlands. It offers flexibility and convenience for travelers, as they can use a single card for multiple modes of transport across different regions of the country.
To make your travel even smoother, you can refer to the accessibility map for specific details on transportation options during the expo days. This will help you plan your route and ensure you reach the Olympic Stadium with ease.
Here are some helpful tips for making the most of your visit to the Amsterdam Marathon Expo…
Tips for Navigating the Amsterdam Marathon Expo
- Arrive Early: While the Expo is open for a couple of days (Thursday to Saturday), it can get quite crowded, especially on the weekend. Arriving early in the day, especially on the first day of the Expo, can give you more time to explore without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. You’ll also have a better chance of getting freebies and speaking with exhibitors before the crowds arrive.
- Plan Ahead: Before attending the Expo, take some time to review the schedule of events and the list of vendors that will be present. This will help you prioritize what you want to see and do. Knowing the layout of the Expo and having a rough plan in mind can save you time and ensure you don’t miss out on anything you’re interested in.
- Pack a Bag: At the Expo, you’ll receive lots of free samples, promotional materials, and perhaps even purchased items. Bringing a backpack or tote bag to carry these goodies will make your experience more convenient. Plus, you won’t have to juggle multiple items in your hands.
- Wear Comfy Shoes: With over 50 national and international exhibitors present, you’ll be doing a fair amount of walking. To avoid foot pain or blisters, wear comfortable, supportive shoes. It’s a good idea to avoid flip-flops or sandals, as they may not provide the support your feet need for extended walking.
- Stay Hydrated: Spending several hours at the Expo means you’ll need to stay hydrated. Bring a refillable water bottle to avoid the cost of buying bottled water. Staying hydrated is essential for your comfort and energy levels during your visit.
- Enjoy Discounts: Many vendors at the Expo offer special discounts and promotions on their products. Take advantage of these deals to save money on essential running gear or accessories. This can be particularly beneficial if you’ve been eyeing specific items for your marathon.
- Attend Seminars: The Amsterdam Marathon Expo often hosts seminars and talks on various topics related to running, training, nutrition, and race strategy. These sessions are a valuable source of information and insight from experts in the field. Attending a seminar or two can enhance your knowledge and race preparation.
- Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to engage with vendors and exhibitors. They’re there to help and share information about their products or services. If you have questions about a particular running accessory or nutrition product, this is a great opportunity to get answers directly from experts.
- Have Fun: The Amsterdam Marathon Expo is not just about shopping and information; it’s a celebration of running and fitness. Soak up the positive atmosphere, engage with fellow runners, and enjoy the overall experience. It’s a unique opportunity to be part of a community of like-minded individuals.
- Be Cautious with Freebies: While there will be plenty of free samples available, be mindful of what you try. Trying new foods or supplements right before the marathon can be risky. It’s best to avoid anything that might upset your stomach and affect your performance on race day.
- Limit Your Visit: Spending too much time on your feet at the Expo can lead to fatigue. Aim to limit your visit to 1-2 hours to conserve your energy for the main event. Give yourself time to rest and prepare mentally for the race.
By following these tips, you can make the most of your Amsterdam Marathon Expo experience while staying comfortable and prepared for the race ahead.
Enjoy your time at this historic event!
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