The Boston Half Marathon 2025 presented by the Boston Athletic Association (B.A.A.) will take place at 8:00 a.m. on Sunday, November 9, 2025, starting and finishing in Boston’s historic Franklin Park. This year’s event has already reached full capacity, with 9,000 runners registered, marking another sold-out edition of one of the most popular half marathons in New England.
Race Details & Registration Status
- Date & Time: Sunday, November 9, 2025, at 8:00 a.m.
- Entry Limit: 9,000 runners
- Registration Fee: $100
- Entrants’ Policy: Non-transferrable, non-deferrable, non-refundable
- Minimum Age: 14 years old on race day
- Official Charity Partner: Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and the Jimmy Fund
Registration for the Boston Half Marathon 2025 opened in early July and filled quickly. Both general entries and charity bibs are now closed, confirming that the field is officially full. This underscores the strong popularity of the B.A.A. Half Marathon as a major fall running event in the United States.
Course Overview
The Boston Half Marathon 2025 course begins and ends at Franklin Park, covering a scenic out-and-back loop through Boston’s Emerald Necklace park system.
Runners will start on Pierpont Road, exiting Franklin Park before heading onto Morton Street, Arborway, and Forest Hills Drive, leading into the Arnold Arboretum area. The route continues past Jamaica Pond and Olmsted Park before looping back toward Franklin Park for the finish line on Pierpont Road.
The course features rolling hills and lush park scenery, offering a beautiful yet challenging route. It’s known for its mix of gentle climbs and fast descents — ideal for runners seeking a test of endurance and pacing strategy.
Notable Updates for 2025
- The 2025 Boston Half Marathon is fully sold out. No new registrations are being accepted.
- Charity team slots for the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Jimmy Fund are also filled.
- The B.A.A. continues to emphasize volunteer participation, spectator support, and eco-friendly race operations for the 2025 event.
- Enhanced runner tracking technology will once again be available for friends and family following participants in real time.
Why the Boston Half Marathon 2025 Matters
The Boston Half Marathon 2025 is one of the premier half marathons in the Northeast, attracting both elite athletes and community runners. It provides a unique opportunity to experience Boston’s renowned running culture without the qualification standards required for the Boston Marathon.
This race is also a major fundraising platform for cancer research and patient care through the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and the Jimmy Fund partnership. Over the years, the event has helped raise millions of dollars to support life-saving initiatives.
Moreover, the event highlights the city’s connection to its green spaces. The Emerald Necklace, designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, serves as the backbone of the course — blending athletic challenge with natural beauty.
Runner & Spectator Information
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Start / Finish Location | Franklin Park, Boston, Massachusetts |
| Distance | 13.1 miles (Half Marathon) |
| Terrain | Rolling out-and-back course through the Emerald Necklace parks |
| Registration Status | Closed (Field filled at 9,000 entrants) |
| Charity Bibs | Fully claimed for 2025 |
| Spectator Access | Available at designated park viewing zones and along Jamaica Pond area |
| Start Time | 8:00 a.m. EST |
| Finisher Medal | Official B.A.A. unicorn medal |
Tips for Runners Participating in 2025
For those running the Boston Half Marathon 2025, preparation is key. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Hill Training Matters: The rolling nature of the course, particularly near Jamaica Pond, demands consistent hill workouts in your training plan.
- Arrive Early: Franklin Park parking and local traffic can be congested. Consider public transit or carpooling to the start area.
- Hydration & Nutrition: Aid stations are positioned throughout the course, but runners should still plan their hydration and fueling strategies carefully.
- Pacing Strategy: The first few miles can feel fast; conserve energy for the gradual uphill return.
- Spectator Support: Expect a lively crowd in Jamaica Plain and near Franklin Park, creating a motivating atmosphere.
Community Impact and Spirit
The Boston Half Marathon continues to foster an inspiring community atmosphere. Local residents line the route to cheer runners, while volunteers ensure seamless operations from start to finish.
The event also celebrates Boston’s legacy as a city of runners — from the iconic Boston Marathon to this cherished fall race that welcomes thousands of recreational athletes. The blend of tradition, athleticism, and purpose makes this half marathon a highlight of the Boston running calendar.
The B.A.A. is known for maintaining professional race management, emphasizing safety, inclusivity, and sustainability. Runners can expect clear signage, well-manned aid stations, and a supportive post-race environment at Franklin Park.
Looking Ahead
As the Boston Half Marathon 2025 approaches, excitement continues to build across the running community. Whether you’re a first-time participant or a returning finisher, the event represents both a personal challenge and a celebration of Boston’s running heritage.
If you’re running or spectating at the Boston Half Marathon 2025, share your plans and race-day stories — we’d love to hear your experience!