Fun Run, Bergen

When the Greek messenger Pheidippides was sent to Athens to announce the Persians defeat in the battle of Marathon, he ran the entire distance without stopping, burst into the Athenian assembly and died on the spot. Fun Run is his story.

On Saturday 24 May 2025, Fun Run will crash the city square. Athletes, trampolinists, martial artists, cyclists, cheerleaders, drummers and dancers from all over Bergen will flood the stage. Amid this spectacle, one thing remains constant: a runner is on a treadmill, and he is not stopping until he has reached 42.2 kilometres–the distance of the modern marathon.

Fun Run is not merely an homage to Pheidippides, but a riotous performance spectacle that pushes the limits of endurance.

Over five hours, a local Bergen hero (to be announced) will run a non-stop marathon on a treadmill, fuelled by massive visual effects, a booming soundtrack, a silky-voiced MC and riotous performances and cheering crowds.

Fun Run has been presented all around the world, from Ansan to Melbourne, Sydney to Taipei, Darwin to Kuopio – and now it’s time for Bergen to join in this extreme endurance artwork; which is part dance party, part performance piece and part epic community celebration. 

Presented by Bergen International Festival

Fun Run was the most amazing live event that I have ever experienced. It was authentic, entertaining, encouraging and totally empowering! I couldn’t believe so many emotions could come out in just a few hours. I am in awe of what an amazing piece of work has been created and how community-minded it was. Victor, Melbourne 2017 Community Performer

All The Queens Men presenters and creators

Tristan Meecham, Bec Reid creator, producer, community liaison

Willoh Weiland event director

Luke Smiles sound design, sound technician

Nick Roux video design, video technician

Chris More content producer, additional video

Anna Pidgeon production manager

Tristan Meecham host

Bec Reid, and others dancers

NN runner

NN performer