To watch the Boston Marathon 2025, you have several options: Television Coverage:
- Locally in the Boston area, WCVB Channel 5 (ABC) provides exclusive live coverage starting early at 4:00 a.m. ET on race day, April 21, 2025
- Nationally, ESPN2 broadcasts the marathon live from 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. ET
- Regional ABC affiliates such as WMUR News 9 (NH), WMTW Channel 8 (ME), and WPTZ NBC5 (VT/NY) also simulcast the race
Streaming:
- The marathon can be streamed live via the Very Local app, which is free and available for smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs
- ESPN+ offers live streaming of the race nationally
Following Along the Course:
- The B.A.A. Racing App allows you to track runners in real time by name or bib number, providing updates on splits and estimated finish times
- Spectators can also watch at various points along the 26.2-mile course, including famous spots like the Wellesley Scream Tunnel, Heartbreak Hill, and the finish line on Boylston Street
Summary of Key Viewing Times (Eastern Time):
- WCVB Channel 5 local coverage begins at 4:00 a.m.
- ESPN2 national coverage runs from 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
- Wheelchair and elite athletes start between 9:06 a.m. and 9:50 a.m., with waves of runners starting up to 11:15 a.m.
This combination of TV, streaming, and apps provides comprehensive ways to watch and follow the Boston Marathon wherever you are