Boston Marathon
Boston Marathon is the sport's hardest prestige race to get into, with qualifying pressure, a net-downhill course, and the Newton Hills late.
Marathon Scout prioritizes official race websites, registration pages, timing providers, results pages, and race-linked live tracking. Last updated July 9, 2026.
Boston Marathon quick facts
- Qualifying standards drive the field, with charity entries also available.
- Point-to-point course from Hopkinton to Boylston Street.
- The net drop is deceptive because the Newton Hills arrive late.
- Usually a tougher pacing exam than a flat PR marathon.
- Weather can swing hard enough to reshape the race.
About the Boston Marathon
The Boston Marathon still sits apart from every other major because getting in is part of the race's meaning. Qualifying standards shape the field, the history is obvious without the organizers needing to say much, and the event carries a level of competitive seriousness that changes how runners talk about it long before race week.
Boston Marathon course description
The course is point-to-point from Hopkinton to Boylston Street, and it is harder than the net drop suggests. Early downhill miles invite bad decisions, then the Newton Hills and Heartbreak Hill arrive late enough to punish them. Boston rewards disciplined pacing and durable quads more than it rewards chasing the first half.
Weather for the Boston Marathon
Mid-April in eastern Massachusetts is volatile enough that Boston weather is never a formality. Cold rain, headwinds, or a warmer-than-expected sun can all show up, and because the course is exposed for long stretches, small weather shifts can reshape the day.
Past Boston Marathon dates and results
| Year | Date | Status | Results |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2027 | Monday, April 19, 2027 | — | — |
| 2026 | Monday, April 20, 2026 | Completed | Open results |
| 2025 | Monday, April 21, 2025 | Completed | Open results |
| 2024 | Monday, April 15, 2024 | Completed | Open results |
Boston Marathon FAQ
When is the Boston Marathon?
The 2027 Boston Marathon is on Monday, April 19, 2027.
How do I register for the Boston Marathon?
You can register for the Boston Marathon at baa.org.
Can I use the Boston Marathon for Boston qualifying?
Marathon Scout marks the Boston Marathon as a Boston qualifier. Check the current Boston qualifying times and confirm current certification with the race before registering.
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