The DATCH Culturethon is a one-of-a-kind heritage marathon festival that connects 1 million DATCH citizens across 10 ethnic-lingual nationalities, showcasing the diversity of Delta’s cultural and creative heritage. It features a 50km culture runway, a living corridor of music, fashion, dance, cuisine, and crafts, where participants celebrate identity while engaging in movement, fitness, and community pride. The DATCH Heritage Diversity District anchors this marathon, bringing together thousands of cultural expressions, food, music, arts, and traditions into a vibrant exhibition of unity in diversity. Citizens and visitors experience the full spectrum of Delta’s cultural assets in one immersive journey.
Beyond celebration, the Culturethon has a transformational socioeconomic impact:
- Health & well-being: By promoting physical activity, active lifestyles, and mass participation, the marathon fosters a culture of wellness and preventive health.
- Tourism & economic growth: The Culturethon attracts both local and international visitors, stimulates local businesses, and generates new opportunities for vendors, artisans, and SMEs along the route.
- Employment & enterprise: Creative entrepreneurs, hospitality providers, and cultural operators benefit from jobs and income generated during the festival.
- Peace & social cohesion: Bringing together all 10 tribes in one symbolic journey fosters inclusion, unity, and inter-ethnic solidarity.
- Global branding: The Culturethon positions Delta as Africa’s home of heritage-driven festivals that connect culture to sustainable development.