The Boston Half Marathon 2025 is officially scheduled for Sunday, November 9, 2025, marking another major event in the Boston running calendar. Organized by the Boston Athletic Association (B.A.A.), this 13.1-mile race continues to attract thousands of runners from across the United States, celebrating endurance, community, and charitable spirit in the heart of Massachusetts.
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Event Overview
- Date & Time: Sunday, November 9, 2025 – starting at 8:00 a.m. ET
- Location: Starts and finishes at Franklin Park in the Jamaica Plain–Roxbury–Dorchester area of Boston
- Field Size: Limited to 9,000 participants
- Entry Fee: $100 USD
- Minimum Age: 14 years old on race day
- Presented By: Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and the Jimmy Fund
The Boston Half Marathon is one of the premier fall races in the U.S. and part of the B.A.A. Distance Medley, which also includes the B.A.A. 5K and 10K events.
Registration and Entry Details
Registration for the Boston Half Marathon 2025 opened on July 7, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. Eastern Time through the B.A.A. Athletes’ Village platform. As expected, demand was incredibly high — the 9,000 available spots were filled within hours.
All entries are non-transferable, non-deferrable, and non-refundable, ensuring fairness and integrity in the registration process.
For runners who missed general entry, charity bibs through Team Dana-Farber and other nonprofit partners were available but have also now been claimed. Participants running for charity help raise millions annually for cancer research and patient care, adding significant purpose to the event.
Course Details and Route Highlights
The Boston Half Marathon follows a scenic, rolling out-and-back course that showcases Boston’s historic Emerald Necklace park system.
Course Overview:
- Start Line: Pierpont Road, Franklin Park
- Early Miles: Morton Street, Arborway, and Forest Hills Drive
- Midsection: Runners head toward Jamaica Pond and the Riverway before looping back
- Finish Line: Pierpont Road in Franklin Park
The course features gradual hills rather than steep climbs, testing endurance and pacing rather than speed alone. Runners enjoy a mix of open park roads, tree-lined streets, and Boston’s unique fall foliage — a signature feature of the event.
Key Updates for 2025
Several confirmed updates shape the 2025 edition of the Boston Half Marathon:
- Same Field Limit: The maximum of 9,000 runners remains unchanged from previous years.
- Rapid Registration: All general entries sold out on opening day, reflecting the race’s growing popularity.
- Consistent Course Layout: No significant course alterations have been made for 2025, maintaining familiarity for returning participants.
- Expanded Charity Impact: The partnership with Dana-Farber and the Jimmy Fund continues, with charity teams expected to raise millions once again.
- Environmental Initiatives: Organizers continue their commitment to sustainability, with recycling stations and reduced single-use plastics on course.
Training and Race Preparation Tips
For runners preparing for the Boston Half Marathon 2025, training should reflect both the terrain and seasonal conditions:
1. Terrain-Specific Training
The rolling course means incorporating hill workouts, tempo runs, and progressive long runs into training. Aim to simulate Boston’s elevation profile to build endurance and strength.
2. Weather Considerations
Early November in Boston often brings cool temperatures between 40°F and 55°F, ideal for distance running but chilly at the start. Layered clothing and gloves are common among participants.
3. Nutrition and Hydration
Plan nutrition carefully — aid stations are strategically placed throughout the route, offering water and electrolytes. Runners should practice fueling strategies during training to avoid mid-race issues.
4. Logistics and Travel
- Parking: Limited near Franklin Park; public transportation or rideshares are highly recommended.
- Packet Pickup: Typically available at a pre-race expo or designated collection area the day before the event.
- Gear Check: Provided near the start/finish area with clear bag guidelines.
Why Runners Love the Boston Half Marathon
The Boston Half Marathon has earned its reputation as one of the most scenic and rewarding half marathons in the U.S. Here’s why it stands out:
- Historic Setting: The route winds through Boston’s lush Emerald Necklace park system, offering runners natural beauty and urban charm.
- Community Spirit: Thousands of spectators line the course to cheer participants, especially near Jamaica Pond and Franklin Park.
- Prestige: Organized by the same team behind the world-famous Boston Marathon, the half marathon carries a similar standard of excellence.
- Charitable Purpose: Each year, runners collectively raise millions of dollars for the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and the Jimmy Fund, turning every mile into a meaningful effort.
Quick Facts and 2025 Timeline
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Event Date | November 9, 2025 |
| Start Time | 8:00 a.m. ET |
| Location | Franklin Park, Boston, MA |
| Course Length | 13.1 miles |
| Registration Opened | July 7, 2025 |
| Entry Fee | $100 USD |
| Participant Limit | 9,000 runners |
| Presented By | Dana-Farber Cancer Institute & Jimmy Fund |
| Minimum Age | 14 years old |
Spectator and Volunteer Opportunities
Spectators and volunteers play an essential role in making the Boston Half Marathon a success every year.
- Best Viewing Spots: Franklin Park, Jamaica Pond, and along the Arborway offer excellent vantage points for cheering.
- Volunteer Roles: Opportunities include helping with bib distribution, hydration stations, finish line support, and crowd management.
- Community Involvement: Many local groups and schools participate by organizing cheering sections and musical performances along the course.
Tips for a Successful Race Day
- Arrive Early: Road closures begin well before the 8:00 a.m. start. Plan extra time for security and warm-up.
- Follow the Pace Plan: The first few miles are slightly downhill; resist the urge to start too fast.
- Hydrate Smartly: Use aid stations wisely, especially between miles 6 and 10 when fatigue starts to build.
- Enjoy the Finish: The final stretch inside Franklin Park is lined with spectators — a motivating reward after 13.1 miles of effort.
Looking Ahead
The Boston Half Marathon 2025 continues a rich tradition of competitive spirit, scenic running, and charitable impact. With its balance of challenge and community, it’s no wonder the event sells out every year. Whether you’re a seasoned half-marathoner or a first-timer lucky enough to secure a bib, this race promises an unforgettable Boston experience.
Are you running or cheering at the Boston Half Marathon 2025? Share your excitement and race-day plans in the comments below!