Boston Marathon!

It’s Marathon Monday next week! I have the pleasure of living along the marathon route and it always feel like the running of the Boston Marathon is the unofficial start of Spring. Unfortunelty, the weather doesn’t always agree with me!  I’ve compiled some information for you that may help you celebrate the runners in your own way!

Route and Road closings

The biggest question I hear is “ When do I need to leave for work if I live on the route? “

Hopkinton: 7am-1:30pm
Ashland: 7:15am-1:45pm
Framingham: 8:30am-2:15pm
Natick: 8:30am-2:15pm
Wellesley: 8:30am-3:15pm
Newton: 8am-4:15pm
Brookline: 9am-5:15pm
Boston: Variable-6:30pm

What time does the race start?

Different athletes start at different times. The first batch head off at 8:40 a.m., and the final wave starts at 11:15 a.m.

• Mobility Impaired: 8:40 a.m.
• Men’s Push-Rim Wheelchair: 9:02 a.m.
• Women’s Push-Rim Wheelchair: 9:04 a.m.
• Handcycles and Duos: 9:25 a.m.
• Elite Women: 9:32 a.m.
• Elite Men: 10 a.m.
• Wave One: 10:02 a.m.
• Wave Two: 10:25 a.m.
• Wave Three: 10:50 a.m.
• Wave Four: 11:15 a.m.

Looking for best times to watch the runners? The BAA has a great chart waiting for you!

https://www.baa.org/races/boston-marathon/watch/along-course

What about security while I’m watching? How can I make things easier for everyone?

The Mass Emergency Management Director Kurt Schwartz asked that spectators use “simple common sense guidelines,” meaning they should not bring backpacks, roller bags, coolers, over the shoulder bags, no glass bottles or containers that could hold more than 1 liter.

“Please do not bring sticks, polls, signs, props, or any weapon or any item that might be used as a weapon,” he said, asking people if they had to carry anything to do so in a clear plastic bag. Drones will not be permitted along the course, he said, but noted that there will be three tethered security drones, two in Hopkinton and one in Natick flying about 400 feet supporting public safety.

How can I track a runner?

If you’re keeping your eyes peeled for a specific runner, you can track them via the BAA website or free app. You can also sign up for text alerts, which beats running alongside them the entire time. 

Don’t want to wait for Monday to join in the festivities?

Head down to the Marathon Expo! You’ll find everything from vendors selling new sneaks to talks by past marathon winners. Located at the Hynes Convention Center.

• Friday, April 12, 11:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.
• Saturday, April 13, 9:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.
• Sunday, April 14, 9:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.

Learn more about the Boston Marathon Expo.

NEW THIS YEAR- FAN FEST!

The Boston Marathon Fan Fest will be located at Copley Square just steps from the finish line and feature experiences with official Boston Marathon sponsors, live music, returning champions and a race weekend clinic.

• Friday, April 12, 12:00 p.m.–8:30 p.m.
• Saturday, April 13, 9:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.
• Sunday, April 14, 11:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.