With Marathon Monday just around the corner on April 15, we’re lacing our sneakers and gearing up to attend the 128th Boston Marathon.
What’s new this year?
The City will host a range of volunteer opportunities to commemorate One Boston Day on April 15.
We can expect a pretty familiar face to kick off race day. Rob Gronkowski, four-time Super Bowl champion + Patriots legend, will serve as Grand Marshal and lead the way from Hopkinton to Boston.
This year’s runners will be the first to see the new Spencer the Official Marathon Dog statue, located along the route in Ashland.
The runners pass through Framingham, Natick, and Brighton on the way to Back Bay.
Image via Boston Athletic Association
How can I cheer on the runners?
With nearly 30,000 athletes expected to hit the pavement, it’s time to jog your memory on the course route + schedule.
The race begins on Main Street in Hopkinton Center and continues to the finish line on Boylston Street in Back Bay. The first wave sets off at 9:02 a.m. with the men’s wheelchair division and continues in waves through 11:15 a.m. The professional frontrunners are expected to cross the finish line between 11:45 a.m. and 12 p.m.
Some of the most popular spots for catching the action are the Wellesley Scream Tunnel and Heartbreak Hill in Newton.
Pro tip: The Boston Marathon website offers live tracking via bib numbers so you don’t miss supporting your friends and family on their 26.2-mile journey.
Planning to check out the race outside of Boston? Roads in Hopkinton close at 6:30 a.m. and there will be no street parking. Jump on the Worcester/Framingham Commuter Rail line early to reach destinations like Framingham, Natick, and Wellesley.
Your best bet locally is taking public transit — make your plans early and check out the MBTA schedule. Don’t forget: Copley Station will be closed all day on Monday, April 15.
Don’t miss: Fan Fest at City Hall Plaza or the Mile 27 Post Race Celebration for appearances from Boston champions, activities, live music, photo ops, and more.