Greek Ambassador to China Evgenios Kalpyris, together with other dignitaries, fired the starting pistol for the race, underscoring the ancient Greek origins of long-distance running and the strengthening athletic and cultural ties between the two nations.

A local cultural square hosted a three-day expo in the lead up to the marathon. It gathered 64 brands and showcased intangible cultural heritage, including paper-cutting and iron plate relief. A marathon culture exhibit traced the sport's origins, Olympic heritage, and Hebei's athletic development.

Ambassador Kalpyris inaugurated the Greek exhibit on Saturday. The showcase featured historical photographs and artifacts tracing over 2,800 years of Olympic heritage, from its origins in Ancient Greece, to its modern revival and the 2024 Paris Olympics.