Boston Marathon

Publication date: 08 Jul 2025

MThe Boston Marathon is one of the oldest running marathons in the world, held annually by several Boston cities in eastern Massachusetts, USA. The marathon takes place every third Monday in April, on Patriots’ Day. Since 1897, the Boston Athletic Association has been organizing this sporting event. The annual average number of participants in the Boston Marathon is 20,000 to 30,000 athletes.

Official website of the Boston Marathon 

2026 Boston Marathon

In 2026, one of the most famous marathons in the world, the Boston Marathon, will celebrate its 130th edition. The race will traditionally take place on Monday, April 20, on Patriots’ Day, as it has for many years.

Marathon is held in the United States, in the state of Massachusetts. The start will be in Hopkinton, and the finish will be in the very center of Boston, on the famous Boylston Street. Along the way, participants will run through eight cities, and hundreds of thousands of fans will support them on both sides of the track.

The marathon will be attended by both elite athletes from all over the world and amateurs who have qualified in advance. To get to the start, you must meet strict time requirements, and registration will open in September 2025.

The Boston Marathon is not just a sporting event. It is a real holiday that brings together tens of thousands of runners and hundreds of thousands of spectators. It is one of the six largest marathons on the planet (World Marathon Majors) and is considered one of the most prestigious starts in the world. In 2026, it promises to be especially memorable – the anniversary, traditions and unique atmosphere of the big race are guaranteed.

History of the marathon

The first Boston Marathon race was held in 1897. The idea for the event came from the Summer Olympics held the year before in Athens. Initially, the Boston Marathon was considered a national event, but over time the popularity of this event began to attract athletes from all over the world.

In 1967, Kathrine Switzer registered for the marathon. As a result, she became the first woman to run and finish with a valid official registration. Despite the fact that marathon official Jock Semple repeatedly attacked the athlete, wanting to disqualify her. The Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) banned women from competing alongside men and it was not until 1972 that a similar event was organized for women.

In the history of the marathon, the first money prize was awarded in 1986.

Previous marathon race results

2027 Boston Marathon

According to preliminary information, the 131st Boston Marathon will be held on April 19, 2027.

Keep an eye on the dates of marathons and other events in our Sports Events Calendar.