The Boston Marathon, meticulously organized by the Boston Athletic Association, is revered for its challenging and historic route through Boston, with this year's race scheduled for April 21, 2025. Celebrated for landmarks like Heartbreak Hill and the enthusiastic "Scream Tunnel" at Wellesley College, it offers a testing but rewarding course. It's not just a race; it's a day of statewide celebration in Massachusetts, held on Patriots' Day, embodying a spirit of community and perseverance. This iconic marathon is a test of endurance and will, drawing elite athletes and passionate amateurs to one of the most celebrated running events in the world.
💼 What should I pack?
Packing for race day is essential, not only to make sure you have everything you need (down to the last safety pin!) but also to fuel that exciting pre-race excitement.
Here are some things to consider:
Running Kit: Wear your race-day outfit before you set off for the race in the morning. Boston’s May weather is usually ideal for running, with temperatures that can range between 8°C and 18°C (46°F to 64°F). Light rain is possible on some of the 9–10 rainy days of the month, so it’s worth bringing a waterproof jacket or cap—better to be safe than soggy! Keep this in mind when packing race day fit options. Top Tip: pin your race number onto your kit the night before, to save any last-minute stress in the morning!
Sports Nutrition: Pack any gels, chews, or snacks you’ve used in training. There may be options handed out on the course, but bring your own so you know you're prepped. Remember it's advised not to try anything new on race day and to stick to what you know!
A pre-run layer: It is a good idea to bring an old jumper to the start line to keep warm. It can be cold early in Boston, even if the forecast is bright for the rest of the day. We would suggest bringing some warm clothes which you can then discard at the start line. Boston Marathon have partnered with charities in the past to donate these items of clothing; check out the official Boston Marathon website or contact the organisers directly for the latest update on 2025's event.
Bag Drop: Pack a warm layer, spare socks, blister plasters, and a recovery snack for after the race.
Electronics: Charge your phone, watch, earphones and any other gadgets you may be using the night before. Download any necessary playlists or podcasts which will get you through those miles / kms. Check out our music suggestions here!
🗺️ How do I collect my race bib and where is the expo located?
The Bank of America Boston Marathon Expo is where you’ll collect your race bib and soak in the pre-race excitement! The expo is free and open to the public.
Important information from the official organisers of the Boston Marathon 2025:
📍 Where?
⏰ When?
Friday, April 18: 10:00AM–7:00PM
Saturday, April 19: 9:00AM–7:00PM
Sunday, April 20: 9:00AM–6:00PM
*Expo hours subject to change
Remember, bring along a valid photo ID and your Digital Number Pick-Up Pass. Please remember that bibs are not available to collect on the day of the race.
Please see more information from the official race organisers here.
🚌 How do I get to the start line?
The iconic yellow school buses will be your primary mode of transport in the morning on race day. These buses are loaded according to which colour bib you are given. Make your way to Boston Common (prepare your journey in advance, as a lot of roads are closed and Uber prices can be high), drop your kit bag off and hop onto a bus, ready to be taken to the athlete village in Hopkinton! The ride is around 50 minutes, but the atmosphere and camaraderie helps the time pass quickly!
Check out more information from the official race organisers here.
🏃 Where will I be running?
The infamous Boston Marathon course starts in Hopkinton, MA and ends on Boylston Street in Boston, MA.
The first 13 miles consist of gentle rolling hills, with some downhill segments, which give you a chance to increase your stride. Once you've hit the halfway mark, you encounter the famous ‘Scream Tunnel’ with enthusiastic students from Wellesley College cheering you on. Miles 16-21 is where the intensity level dials up, as you approach the Newton Hills, including the famous Heartbreak Hill. Dig deep and hang in there! 'Right on Hereford, Left on Boylston' is the famous mantra for the finish of Boston - keep these words echoing through your mind as you climb those hills! Once you have conquered Heartbreak Hill it is smooth sailing into Boston, with the Prudential Centre and John Hancock in sight.
And you’re nearly there - Right on Hereford, Left on Boylston and you have finished the Boston Marathon! You've done it! Time to get your medal and enjoy the post-race festivities! 🎖️
Check out the official course map on the Boston Marathon official website here.
Tracking your loved ones
Spectating live from Boston, or from afar? Follow the progress of your friends, family and your favourite runners live using the B.A.A. Racing App!
🐌 How should I pace myself on race day?
You’ll have the opportunity to fully utilise the race day workout provided by Runna. Expect pacing alerts and audio cues similar to those during your training runs, helping you stay on track. Pacing can be tricky with the excitement of the start line. To avoid going out too fast, practice your race-day routine during your shakeout run. Download your playlists, set up Runna for pace or RPE cues, and ensure your devices are fully charged.
The Boson Marathon has an elevation gain of 262m / 860ft, meaning that its elevation profile is Rolling. Due to the rolling nature of the course, we don't currently offer 'pace target' style audio cues on your plan for the race. This is because your pace will vary when you are going up and down hills and it is difficult to predict exactly what pace you will be running at.
Instead, you will receive feedback for each kilometre that you run - please have a look at the workout before your race day. You can always start this workout before Monday's race to see how things will look and then discard it once you are happy with how your workout will be displayed on race day.
The support along the route is incredible, you'll truly enjoy the experience! Try not to worry about what other runners are doing, focus on your race, and listen to the crowds who will be rooting for you the whole way round!
Be aware that the tall buildings in the city can cause some GPS issues on race day. So, it's a good idea to rely on the pace markers and your own instincts regarding your marathon pace.
Here are a few more tips on marathon pacing!
🛰️ How should I navigate GPS issues on the day?
With so many runners, GPS signals can sometimes be spotty. Stick to your usual method of recording your runs on Runna, and be prepared for a possible delay in uploading your race data. If you encounter issues, save your activity and refresh your app when you have a stronger signal or Wi-Fi.
🎖️ What's Next After the Race?
You did it!! Now it's time to celebrate... grab your refreshment of choice, loosen your shoelaces, and take some time to stretch and enjoy this incredible moment! Those legs may be sore tomorrow, but take the time to soak up that post-race high in the city of Boston.
Best of luck with your 2025 Boston Marathon, and most importantly, have fun!
Take in the sights and have the best time - we will be with you every step of the way.
Check out the video below for more of our coaches' top tips for race day!