The World's Oldest Annual Marathon
The Boston Marathon is an annual marathon held on Patriots’ Day, a public holiday observed in Massachusetts each April. Organized by the Boston Athletic Association (B.A.A.), the race is the world’s oldest continuously run annual marathon and one of the seven Abbott World Marathon Majors. Unlike most major marathons, entry is primarily based on qualification standards, making participation itself a significant accomplishment for runners worldwide.
Over more than a century, the Boston Marathon has evolved from a small regional event into one of the most prestigious road races on the planet. The race attracts elite athletes, wheelchair competitors, charity runners, and thousands of spectators who line the streets from Hopkinton to Boston. Its rich history, iconic course, and traditions have made it one of the most recognizable sporting events in the world.