Boston Marathon 2025

Let's celebrate athleticism and community spirit within the remarkable and motivating environment of the Boston Marathon!

The first Boston Marathon was held in 1897, making it the world's oldest annual marathon. Only 15 participants ran the course at the inaugural marathon, but today, this event draws more than 30,000 participants.

Ranked as one of the world's best-known road racing events, the Boston Marathon is one of seven World Marathon Majors (WMM). WMM is a competition based on points, featuring yearly races in Tokyo, Boston, London, Sydney, Berlin, Chicago, and New York.

In keeping with tradition, the race takes place on the third Monday of April, coinciding with Patriots' Day. The 129th Boston Marathon, presented by Bank of America, will occur on Monday, April 21, 2025.

What to Expect When Attending the Boston Marathon 2025

Here's what to expect on race day:

The marathon's 26.2-mile route begins in Hopkinton and concludes in Boston's Back Bay. Key segments include:

• Start in Hopkinton: This is a downhill beginning that can be deceptively challenging.
• Wellesley College's "Scream Tunnel": Wellesley students create an exhilarating atmosphere with enthusiastic cheering around the halfway mark.
• Newton Hills: A series of four hills between miles 16 and 21, culminating in the infamous Heartbreak Hill.
• Boston College descent: A downhill stretch leading into the city.
• Finish on Boylston Street: Runners are greeted by roaring crowds as they approach the finish line near Copley Square.

As a spectator, you're in for an unforgettable experience. Here are the best cheering spots:

• Hopkinton start line: If you want to see the excitement of the race kickoff, this is the place to be.
• Wellesley College (Mile 13): The famous "Scream Tunnel" is one of the most iconic spots, where you can cheer with Wellesley students.
• Newton Hills (Miles 16-21): A critical part of the race where runners tackle Heartbreak Hill. Your encouragement can make a huge difference!
• Kenmore Square (Mile 25): Near Fenway Park, this area is packed with energy as runners make their final push toward the finish line.
• Boylston Street (Finish Line): The most emotional and exciting spot to witness the finish, but also the most crowded. Arrive early if you want a good view!

Beyond cheering, you can enjoy plenty of entertainment along the course. Many areas feature live music and DJ booths. Fenway Park hosts its traditional Patriots' Day Red Sox game, and the streets around Kenmore Square come alive with fans spilling out from bars and restaurants.

You'll want to dress appropriately for the unpredictable New England weather, which can range from cool and rainy to unexpectedly warm. According to the Farmers' Almanac, the period around April 21 is expected to be "pleasantly fair and clear," but you should check the forecast close to the event's date.

Security Protocols

Expect bag checks, designated security checkpoints, and restricted access to certain areas, especially near the finish line. Large bags, backpacks, and glass containers are generally prohibited, and spectators are encouraged to travel light.

Runners must use clear, BAA-provided gear check bags. Law enforcement will keep everyone safe along the course, and spectators should report any suspicious activity. Plan ahead and follow posted guidelines—these measures help ensure a safe and enjoyable race day for everyone!

How to Get To or From the Event

Here's how to navigate the event smoothly:

For runners: Visit the Boston Marathon Expo at the Hynes Convention Center to collect your bib and race packet. The Expo is conveniently accessible via the MBTA Green Line; disembark at the Hynes Convention Center station.

• Race day transportation: The Boston Athletic Association provides shuttle buses from Boston Common to the starting line in Hopkinton. These buses are exclusively for registered runners and depart on a set schedule. Ensure you arrive early to board your assigned bus.

For spectators:

The MBTA (Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority) offers extensive services on race day:

• Subway: The Green Line is particularly useful, with stations near popular viewing spots. For example, the Hynes Convention Center station is close to the course around mile 25. Note that Copley Station is typically closed on race day for security reasons.
• Commuter Rail: The MBTA Commuter Rail services various towns along the marathon route. Stations like Natick Center and Wellesley Square are within walking distance of the course. Check the MBTA website for specific schedules and station information.

Bluebikes, Boston's bike-sharing system, is an excellent option for getting around on race day. With over 5,500 bikes and 520 stations, you can easily find docking stations near the marathon route. Remember to dock your bike properly to avoid additional fees.

Boston Marathon 2025 Bag Policy

The Boston Marathon has specific bag policies to ensure the safety and smooth operation of the event. Here's what you need to know:

For runners:

• Prohibited items include backpacks, shoulder bags, or handbags of any size, props, including sporting equipment, and signs or flags larger than 11" x 17". You're also not allowed to bring glass containers or vessels that can hold more than one liter of liquid.

You can carry a one-gallon clear plastic bag for food or sports drinks. You can also bring a waist pack (no larger than 5" x 15" x 5") to carry essentials like food, nutritional products, medicine, identification, cell phone, or keys.

Your race packet will contain a pre-approved gear check bag for the finish area. It measures 18" x 19" and has a 5" gusseted bottom, and only this bag will be allowed in the finish area.

For spectators:

• Prohibited items include handbags or packages larger than 12" x 12" x 6", backpacks or similar items carried over the shoulder, suitcases, coolers, and any kind of dangerous item.

Boston Marathon 2025 Bag Storage

Store Your Luggage With Bounce and Enjoy the Marathon

Bounce is here to help you have a hassle-free experience in Boston!

Visit our website or use our mobile app to search for a convenient location to store your luggage in the city.

The price is just $4.10 per day. We offer you $10,000 in bag protection, no cancellation fee, and round-the-clock support.

How to Stow Your Bag at the Boston Marathon 2025 With Bounce

• Book: Choose a store in the preferable area, book it, and pay online.
• Store your bags: Bring the payment confirmation, go to the booked store, and drop off your stuff.
• Enjoy the race day: Have fun while supporting the runners (or

How to Make the Most Out of the Boston Marathon 2025

• Master the landmarks: Break the race into sections based on iconic spots (Wellesley Scream Tunnel, Heartbreak Hill) for mental boosts.
• Celebrate local: Post-race, reward yourself with a classic Boston experience: seafood, a Sam Adams beer, or a visit to Fenway Park.
• Track your runner: If you're supporting a specific runner, use the marathon app to follow their progress and be at the right spot to cheer them on.
• Capture the moment: Take candid photos of runners pushing through—some will love to see them later!
• Store your bags with Bounce: Make the most of the marathon day by storing your bags with Bounce. We'll keep your belongings secure as you enjoy the event.

Lace up your shoes, grab your signs, and join the excitement—because in Boston, history is made with every step!