Boston Marathon to Implement Six-Wave Start for 2026 Race

The Boston Athletic Association (B.A.A.) will implement a six-wave start for the 130th Boston Marathon, presented by Bank of America, on Patriots’ Day, April 20, 2026. This change from the previous four-wave system is designed to improve the athlete experience by reducing crowding and creating a more continuous flow of runners.

What’s Changing with the Start?

Previously, the Boston Marathon utilized four starting waves, each typically containing around 7,500 participants. The latest six-wave format will result in smaller, more manageable groups, ranging from 3,200 to 7,100 runners per wave, according to the B.A.A. Wave assignments will be based on a runner’s estimated pace and finish time, among other factors.

Timing of the Waves

The first wave will still commence at 10:00 a.m. Subsequent waves will start every 13 to 20 minutes, with the final wave commencing at 11:21 a.m. The B.A.A. States that all participants will be across the starting line before 11:30 a.m.

Course Closure Remains the Same

Despite the adjusted start times, the finish line on Boylston Street will continue to close at 5:30 p.m., providing runners with the same amount of time to complete the 26.2-mile course as in previous years.

Why the Change?

Lauren Proshan, the B.A.A.’s chief of operations and production, explained that the new system is the result of collaboration with crowd scientists and observation of athlete density. “The new six-wave start system is aimed at enhancing the participant experience,” Proshan said in a statement. “Working with crowd scientists and observing athlete density, this updated start procedure is geared towards creating a continuous flow at each point of the athlete journey on race morning – from gear check to bus loading, arriving in Athletes’ Village to crossing the start and covering the 26.2 miles.”

How to Identify Your Wave Assignment

Registered athletes can find their assigned start wave and bib number within their online B.A.A. Athletes’ Village account.

Copley Square Park Preparations

The Boston Athletic Association (B.A.A.) will utilize the renovated Copley Square Park for athlete services, volunteer operations, and medical tents during marathon weekend, as it has in past years. Mayor Michelle Wu noted the park’s importance as a landmark and gathering space. The Boston Athletic Association was founded in 1887 and organized the first Boston Marathon in 1897.