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Boston is optimistically back on the marathon schedule for 2021, with a plan to race the iconic 26.2 miles one day after the Chicago Marathon.

Canceled in 2020 for the first time in 124 years due to COVID-19, the 125th Boston Marathon is tentatively scheduled for Monday, Oct. 11.



“We announce the 2021 Boston Marathon date with a cautious optimism, understanding full well that we will continue to be guided by science and our continued collaborative work with local, city, state, and public health officials,” said Tom Grilk, president and CEO of the Boston Athletic Association. “If we are able to hold an in-person race in October, the safety of participants, volunteers, spectators, and community members will be paramount.”

Boston Joins Return Of Marathons

The Boston Marathon would be part of a fall running calendar scheduled to include international main events in road racing with marathons in Berlin (Sept. 26), London (Oct. 3), Chicago (Oct. 10), Boston, Tokyo (Oct. 17) and New York City (Nov. 7).

The Boston Marathon was one of many international marathons held virtually last year. Typically the race is held in April and on Patriots’ Day in New England.



The field is expected to be dramatically reduced with many elite runners given preference. But the BAA said more information on regulations for the race, including qualifying processes and plans for in-person racers, will be announced at a later date.

“The event plan will be pending future approval from the eight cities and towns that comprise the marathon route,” the BAA said in a release.

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