Boston Marathon 2025: Your Complete FAQ Guide

The Boston Marathon 2025 is set for April 21, 2025, continuing its legacy as one of the most prestigious races in the world. This guide answers common questions about qualifying, race day logistics, travel, and course details to help runners prepare.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. When is the 2025 Boston Marathon?

The Boston Marathon 2025 will take place on Monday, April 21, 2025, coinciding with Patriot’s Day, a public holiday in Massachusetts and Maine.

2. How many runners participate?

The race is capped at approximately 30,000 runners each year. Due to high demand, not all qualifiers secure a spot.

3. What is the Boston Marathon course like?

The point-to-point course starts in Hopkinton, passes through eight New England towns, and finishes on Boylston Street in Boston. The route includes rolling hills, a long downhill opening, and the challenging Newton Hills, including Heartbreak Hill at mile 20.

4. What are the start times for different race divisions?

The Boston Marathon follows a strict start schedule:

Men’s Wheelchair: 9:06 AM
Women’s Wheelchair: 9:09 AM
Handcycles & Duo Teams: 9:30 AM
Elite Men: 9:37 AM
Elite Women: 9:47 AM
Para Athlete Division: 9:50 AM
Wave Starts (Mass Participation Runners): 10:00 AM (every 25 minutes)

5. How do I qualify for the Boston Marathon?

To run the Boston Marathon, you must meet a qualifying time in a certified marathon.

The qualifying window for the 2025 race was September 1, 2023 – September 13, 2024.
Runners must submit proof of their qualifying time during registration.
Meeting the time standard does not guarantee entry—faster qualifiers receive priority.

*Photo via Boston Marathon (@bostonmarathon) • Instagram*

6. Where do I pick up my race bib?

All runners must collect their race bib at the Boston Marathon Expo at the Hynes Convention Center (900 Boylston St, Boston, MA).

Friday, April 18: 10 AM – 7 PM
Saturday, April 19: 9 AM – 7 PM
Sunday, April 20: 9 AM – 6 PM
The Expo is free and open to the public.

7. How do I get to the start line?

Official transportation includes yellow school buses, which take runners from Charles Street (Boston Common area) to Hopkinton.

First bus leaves: 6:45 AM
Last bus departs: 9:30 AM
Only official kit bags (collected at the Expo) are allowed at the bag drop.

8. What is Heartbreak Hill?

Heartbreak Hill is the final and steepest of the Newton Hills, located at mile 20. It is not the steepest incline in marathon racing, but its timing late in the race makes it challenging. Many runners struggle here due to early pacing mistakes.

9. What kind of weather should I expect?

Boston’s April weather is unpredictable.

Average High: 57°F (13.8°C)
Average Low: 41°F (5°C)
Chance of Rain: 37%
Past races have seen heat waves, torrential rain, and strong winds.

Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest — *Photo via Boston Marathon (@bostonmarathon) • Instagram*

10. Can I defer my Boston Marathon entry if I am injured?

No, the Boston Marathon does not allow race deferrals for injuries. Runners must re-qualify for future races.

However, runners who are pregnant or postpartum may defer their entry for up to two years under the B.A.A.’s Pregnancy & Postpartum Deferral Policy.

11. Where should I stay for the Boston Marathon?

The official hotel booking agency for the Boston Marathon is Marathon Tours & Travel.

Reservations open June 26, 2024, at 12 PM Eastern Time.
Hotels near Copley Square are the most convenient.
Call 617-242-7845 for reservations.

12. Is there an official Boston Marathon Course Tour?

Yes, but the tour is sold out. It was available for $40 per person, departing from Sheraton Boston Hotel on April 19 and April 20.

The Boston Marathon 2025 remains one of the most prestigious and competitive marathons in the world. With strict qualification standards, a challenging course, and unpredictable weather, it is a true test of endurance and preparation. Runners should plan carefully and arrive ready for race day.

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