Boston 5K Unveils New Route and Elite International Field Ahead of Marathon Weekend

New Energy and World-Class Athletes for the 2025 Boston 5K

Boston's spring is about to get a serious adrenaline boost. The Boston 5K, presented by Harvard Pilgrim Health Care, comes back on April 19, 2025, but this year it’s bringing a completely fresh course and a tidal wave of excitement. The new route slices right through the heart of the city, hugging the edges of the Boston Public Garden, winding across the Back Bay’s vibrant street grid, and surging through Kenmore Square. The finish? It’s as iconic as it gets—right at the Boston Marathon finish line on Boylston Street.

Early morning runners and fans will want to set their alarms for 8:00 a.m. That’s when a massive field—nearly 10,000 participants—will toe the line. Among them, you’ll spot not just local runners chasing PBs, but also a true who’s-who of elite runners from across the U.S. and around the globe. The international talent always adds a competitive edge, with American and international pros eyeing the prestigious tape and the early-spring bragging rights.

With the new course and top-class athlete entries, organizers expect the city’s sidewalks and balconies along the route to overflow with spectators. Race-day media presence will be hard to miss, especially around the flashy finish line under the photo bridge, capturing every dramatic sprint and triumphant celebration.

The B.A.A. Invitational Mile: Fast Feet, Local Pride

The running doesn’t stop with the 5K. By late morning, Boston turns its streets into a showcase for both speed and community spirit with the B.A.A. Invitational Mile. This race kicks off at 11:00 a.m. back on Boylston Street, drawing a different but equally electrifying crowd. Leading the pro field is Casey Comber, who dominated the 2024 edition and is returning to defend his crown. He’s not coming alone—expect a deep pack of top professional milers ready to chase history and each other through every meter.

What sets the Invitational Mile apart, though, isn’t just the elite names. This event makes room on the start line for high school athletes hailing from eight different cities that dot the Boston Marathon route. For these student runners, it’s more than a race—it’s the chance to test their grit in front of the same crowds that roar for the country’s best, all while standing shoulder-to-shoulder with world-renowned pros.

Both of these races serve as a launchpad for the B.A.A. Distance Medley, setting the stage for Marathon Monday. With the city buzzing, world-class athletes lining up, and thousands of spectators pouring onto Boston’s streets, the energy feels less like a warmup and more like a festival—one where every finisher, whether local legend or international star, gets to be part of Boston's running story.