Celebrities Set to Run in 130th Boston Marathon

A star-studded lineup will join over 30,000 runners in the iconic race.

Apr. 20, 2026 at 2:53pm

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An abstract, expressionist painting featuring bold, vibrant brushstrokes in neon shades of pink, orange, and blue, conveying the dynamic motion and intensity of runners in the Boston Marathon.Neon-hued brushstrokes capture the electric energy and athletic prowess of the Boston Marathon's celebrity runners.Boston Today

The 130th Boston Marathon will take place on Patriots' Day, April 20, 2026, with an estimated 30,000 runners competing in the iconic race. Among them will be a number of high-profile celebrities, including former Boston Celtics player Chris Herren, astronaut Suni Williams, and Dropkick Murphys musician Jeff DaRosa.

Why it matters

The Boston Marathon is one of the world's most prestigious running events, attracting elite athletes and notable public figures alike. The participation of celebrities helps raise the profile of the race and inspires more people to get involved in running and fitness.

The details

The marathon will feature staggered start times, with Wave 1 kicking off at 10:00 a.m. and the final wave departing at 11:21 a.m. Runners will cover the 26.2-mile course from Hopkinton to the finish line on Boylston Street in Boston. Viewers can track the progress of individual participants on the Boston Marathon website.

  • The 130th Boston Marathon will take place on Monday, April 20, 2026.
  • Wave 1 will start at 10:00 a.m., with subsequent waves departing every 15 minutes until 11:21 a.m.

The players

Amby Burfoot

Former Runner's World editor-in-chief and winner of the 1968 Boston Marathon, now competing again at the age of 79.

Bryan Arenales

Reality star who won Season 7 of Love Island, and is competing in the Boston Marathon for the first time.

Chelsea Clinton

Daughter of Bill Clinton and Hillary Clinton, who has competed multiple times in the New York Marathon.

Chris Herren

Former Boston Celtics star and motivational speaker.

Des Linden

Former professional sportswoman who, in 2018, became the first American woman to win the Boston Marathon in more than three decades.

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What they’re saying

“I'm thrilled to be running the Boston Marathon again after all these years. It's such an iconic event, and I'm honored to be a part of it.”

— Amby Burfoot, Former Runner's World editor-in-chief

“This will be my first time running the Boston Marathon, and I can't wait to take on the challenge. It's going to be an incredible experience.”

— Bryan Arenales, Reality TV star

What’s next

Runners can continue to register for the 130th Boston Marathon through the Boston Athletic Association's website. The organization will also provide live updates and tracking information on race day.

The takeaway

The participation of high-profile celebrities in the Boston Marathon helps to showcase the event's prestige and inspire more people to get involved in running and fitness. The diverse lineup of famous runners, from athletes to entertainers, reflects the broad appeal and inclusive nature of this iconic race.