Run for Freedom and Innovate Chiang Mai 2026

September 26

Run for Freedom and Innovate Chiang Mai 2026 Bring Together Sport, Innovation and Opportunity
Chiang Mai, 26 September 2026 – Bitcoin Chiang Mai, together with its network of partners, is hosting Run for Freedom 2026 and Innovate Chiang Mai 2026 from 25–27 September 2026 at the National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand (NARIT) in Chiang Mai.
Bringing together runners, students, entrepreneurs, innovators and members of the wider community, the three-day programme creates a platform for learning, physical activity, innovation and the exchange of ideas.
Among those speaking at the event were Dr. Wiphu Rujopakarn, Executive Director of the National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand (Public Organization) – NARIT; Mr. Itthirat Sinarak, Chiang Mai Provincial Tourism and Sports Officer; and Ms. Passanan Chatchayaladasiri, Co-Founder & CEO, who joined representatives from the public and private sectors in welcoming participants and highlighting opportunities for collaboration, learning and innovation in Chiang Mai.
Run for Freedom 2026: Beyond Limits, Towards Freedom
One of the key activities is the BTC Ultra Trail 2026, a trail-running event inviting runners to challenge themselves along Chiang Mai’s natural terrain. The race features three distances: 10K, 25K and 50K.
Beyond the trail race, Run for Freedom also features activities focusing on health, learning and community engagement, encouraging participants to take care of their wellbeing, develop their potential and live with purpose.
Another highlight is the FUN and Family RUN, held on 26 September at Princess Sirindhorn AstroPark, welcoming children, young people, families and the public to enjoy running and activities together, with an emphasis on healthy living and stronger family connections.
Innovate Chiang Mai 2026: A Platform for Learning, Innovation and Opportunity
Running alongside the sporting activities, Innovate Chiang Mai 2026 takes place from 25–27 September at NARIT AstroPark, creating a platform for dialogue and knowledge exchange between government agencies, businesses, educational institutions, entrepreneurs, students and the public.
The event features talks, discussions, innovation showcases, networking opportunities and a Business Plan Competition, giving students the opportunity to present their business ideas to a multidisciplinary panel and connect classroom knowledge with real-world challenges and opportunities.
Key themes include Smart City, Smart Tourism, Sustainability, Healthcare & Well-being, Education & Future Skills, Smart Economy and Digital Innovation.
A major objective of the event is to give younger generations a space to think, experiment, present their ideas and build networks, while creating opportunities for collaboration between students, entrepreneurs, investors and organisations.
From the Running Trail to a Platform for Ideas
Holding Run for Freedom and Innovate Chiang Mai during the same period reflects an effort to bring together health, learning, technology, innovation and business opportunities within one shared platform.
The programme also included Freedom Money 2026, held on 25 September at NARIT, featuring speakers and experts from a range of fields including Bitcoin, finance, technology, artificial intelligence and business, under the theme of Financial Freedom.
Organisers describe the initiative as more than a running event or an innovation expo. It is designed as a community platform where people from different backgrounds can meet, learn from one another, exchange perspectives and develop new opportunities.
The event also highlights Chiang Mai’s potential as a city of learning and innovation, while strengthening its position as an open and internationally connected destination through activities linking sport, education, technology, business and community.
For further information and event updates, follow the Run for Freedom and BLC Chiang Mai pages.