When Is the Boston Marathon? What to Know Before You Go
Signs of spring are slowly starting to emerge in Massachusetts, signaling the beginning of a new season and the approach of the Boston Marathon. This year’s Boston Marathon, presented by Bank of America, will be held on Monday, April 21, 2025.
Traditionally held on Patriot’s Day, the third Monday in April, the Boston Marathon will be a milestone event for the 129th running of the race. In 2025, the marathon falls on the 250th anniversary of Patriot’s Day, a Massachusetts state holiday. Patriot’s Day is recognized in six states, including Massachusetts, to commemorate the battles of Lexington, Concord, and Menotomy, which fueled the start of the American Revolution.
When Does the Boston Marathon Begin?
Start times for the marathon depend on which wave runners participate in. The military march starts at 6 a.m., and the final wave for runners begins at 11:15 a.m.
Most participants will begin the marathon between 10 a.m. and 11:15 a.m. Professional athletes and those competing in wheelchairs will start the marathon earlier.
When Does the Boston Marathon Expo Open?
Marathon participants can retrieve their race bibs and shop for race essentials at the Boston Marathon Expo, held the weekend before the race. This year’s Expo will take place from Friday, April 18 through Sunday, April 20, at the John B. Hynes Veterans Memorial Convention Center at 900 Boylston St. Hours for the Expo are:
- Friday, April 18: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Saturday, April 19: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Sunday, April 20: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Learn more about the Boston Marathon by visiting the Boston Athletic Association’s website.
