Running Races in Boston
Boston is sacred ground for distance runners. Home to the oldest annual marathon in the world, the city breathes running culture from the Charles River Esplanade to the Emerald Necklace parks. The Boston running community is tight knit, passionate, and serious about their craft. Race day in Boston is a state holiday, and the entire city turns out to cheer.
Best Months
April to June, September to October
State
Massachusetts
Top Race
Boston Marathon
Total Races
5+ featured
Major Races in Boston
Boston Marathon
MarathonThe one you qualify for. 30,000 runners. Heartbreak Hill. The finish on Boylston Street.
BAA Half Marathon
Half MarathonRun by the same organizers as the marathon. Fast, well organized, prestigious.
BAA 10K
10KSummer race through Back Bay and along the Charles River.
Run to Remember
Half MarathonMemorial run honoring fallen first responders. Emotional and beautiful.
BAA 5K
5KThe day before the marathon. Fast field, great energy.
Course Terrain
Rolling hills, especially on the marathon course from Hopkinton. City streets are well maintained. The Newton Hills will test your legs.
Race Day Tips for Boston
If you are running the marathon, do NOT try anything new on race day. Boston is not the place to experiment.
Take the T (subway) to race starts. Parking is extremely limited near most race venues.
April weather in Boston is unpredictable. Be ready for anything from 35F rain to 70F sun.
Spectators in Wellesley (the Scream Tunnel) will give you a massive energy boost at mile 13.
Running Clubs in Boston
Boston Athletic Association
The organization behind the Boston Marathon and dozens of other races.
Heartbreakers Running Club
Inclusive running group with weekly runs from various Boston neighborhoods.
November Project Boston
The original NP chapter. Free workouts at Harvard Stadium every Wednesday.
Turn Your Boston Runs Into a Game
Qualify for Boston, then claim the entire marathon route on Motera. From Hopkinton to Boylston, turn every training run into territory captured.
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MoteraExplore Boston Running Routes
Looking for where to train between races? Check out our full running guide for Boston with top routes, terrain info, and local tips.
Running in Boston GuideFrequently Asked Questions
What are the Boston Marathon qualifying times?
Qualifying times vary by age and gender. For ages 18 to 34, the standard is 3:00:00 for men and 3:30:00 for women. Times get more generous with age. You typically need to beat the standard by 5+ minutes to actually get in due to high demand.
When is the Boston Marathon?
The Boston Marathon is held on Patriots Day, the third Monday in April. It has been run annually since 1897, making it the oldest annual marathon in the world.
What is Heartbreak Hill?
Heartbreak Hill is the last of four hills on the Boston Marathon course, located between miles 20 and 21 in Newton. It is not the steepest hill but comes at the most brutal point in the race.
Are there races in Boston for beginners?
Yes. The BAA hosts a 5K the day before the marathon, and there are numerous community 5Ks throughout the year. The Charles River Running Path also hosts several beginner friendly events.
What is the best time of year to race in Boston?
Late September through mid October offers the best racing weather with temperatures in the 50s and 60s. Spring races in April and May can be unpredictable.
