Boston Marathon 2024: Weekend Events and Everything You Need to Know

You might not be one of the runners, but that doesn't mean that being a spectator doesn't come with its own set of challenges—think sun, potential rain, standing for long periods, thirst and hunger. If you’re going to cheer on the sidelines for hours, be sure to wear good shoes and slather on sunscreen (don't forget to reapply). Pack a small bag with outerwear to match the weather conditions, as well as snacks and water bottles.

Held this year on the same day of the Marathon bombing in 2013,  One Boston Day is when Mayor Michelle Wu encourages people to do acts of kindness and take part in volunteer opportunities throughout the weekend. Whether your gesture is grand or small, this declaration shows our city’s “Boston Strong” spirit of caring for one another.

If you’re planning on heading into Boston to watch the race, be sure to check out local road and T closures. Of note, the Copley T Station will be closed, and roads near the racecourse will begin to close to cars near the finish line at 7:15am. 

With more than 200 exhibitors, the Boston Marathon Expo is a premier gathering for the running industry, along with friends and fans. The general public is invited to join top athletes and running enthusiasts to check out the newest running products and services (of note - there’s a huge Adidas store). The 2024 Boston Marathon Expo will take place April 12-14 at the John B. Hynes Veterans Memorial Convention Center at 900 Boylston St. in Boston. More info here.

Whether you choose to watch the marathon at the starting line, the finish line or somewhere in between, the Boston Marathon route has many unique viewing spots. Help the runners make it up Heartbreak Hill, cheer alongside the students at Boston College, mingle with fellow Red Sox fans at Kenmore Square or watch as runners cross the finish line.

Head to this Wellesley College spot where supporters turn the volume up to 11. It’s halfway through the race, so runners will need a big push. You’ll also see students with decorative signs displaying encouraging messages.

The annual Patriots’ Day game (first pitch at 11:05am) is a special Red Sox tradition and part of the holiday’s festivities. It’s the only morning game on MLB’s schedule, and takes place as thousands of runners hit the streets for the Boston Marathon. The area around Fenway is buzzing all day, but even more so as fans exit the game in time to see the runners pass the Citgo sign. This year watch our boys of summer play the Cleveland Guardians.

It’s a holiday, there’s a Marathon going on, and there’s a Red Sox game—this trifecta offers up the perfect time to hang out in the Fenway. Whether it’s a cold brew at the Bleacher Bar or a filling burrito at El Pelón, you’ll have something fun to do while you cheer on the runners.

Plenty of popular bars along the route will be showing the marathon on TV and/or offering specials. The energy is always high as patrons cheer on the runners with drinks in hand. Check out The Publick House or Bukowski Tavern.

Cheering for all those runners can work up an appetite. Thanks to the annual Patriots Day Red Sox game, Fenway is a great place to eat during the race, from Hojoko to Blue Ribbon Sushi, Sweet Cheeks to Tasty Burger. Once in the Back Bay, celebrate like you just ran 26.2 miles by grabbing a patio seat and snacks at Rochambeau or Landwer Cafe to watch the people who actually did.