RacesReviewed / Top 25

Top 25 Races in Massachusetts

Massachusetts offers a diverse racing landscape worth exploring.

Massachusetts's racing scene has something for every runner.

Ranked races

25Massachusetts's best racing events.

Race types

Road, Trail, UltraMassachusetts's diverse terrain.

Signature event

See #1The state's premier event.

How we ranked these races

What went into the selection

Field Size

How many runners typically participate.

Longevity & Prestige

Event history and regional standing.

Course Quality

Scenery, variety, and support.

Runner Experience

Aid stations, swag, and overall satisfaction.

Notable Features

Unique elements that make the race memorable.

Full ranked list

All 25 races ranked

25 visible
#1

Secure your spot on the GLRR Boston Marathon Bus and enjoy the ultimate race weekend experience with Greater Lowell Road Runners. This exclusive package bundles GLRR membership with guaranteed transportation to Hopkinton, making it the perfect choice for runners and passionate spectators looking to be part of the iconic marathon action.

GLRR Boston Marathon Bus and AmenitiesGLRR Membership & Seat on the BusSpring
LowellGLRR Membership & Seat on the Bus~30,000 runners
  • Lowell
  • GLRR Membership & Seat on the Bus
  • ~30,000 runners

#2
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Experience the world's oldest annual marathon alongside the iconic BAA 5k in the heart of historic Boston. This legendary race draws elite athletes and dedicated runners chasing Boston Qualifier times through the famous Hopkinton-to-Boston course. Runners flood the iconic course each April, joined by passionate spectators lining the 26.2-mile route from Hopkinton to Copley Square.

Boston Marathon + BAA 5kMarathonSeasonal
BostonMarathon~10,000 runners
#3
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This marathon in Boston, MA, organized by Project Bread's Walk for Hunger, project bread's walk for hunger. It's a solid choice for runners of all levels looking for a marathon in the Boston, MA area.

Project Bread's Walk for HungerMarathonSpring
BostonMarathon~10,000 runners
#4
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Take on the ultimate cycling adventure with the Boston to Bar Harbor Annual Challenge—a 750-mile virtual bike and spin challenge that lets you conquer the iconic route from Boston, MA to the stunning coast of Bar Harbor from anywhere. Whether you're pedaling on roads or spinning indoors, this challenge attracts thousands of dedicated cyclists seeking their next great achievement. What makes this event special is its perfect blend of flexibility and community—complete 750 miles on your own terms while joining a massive community of 6,500 riders in 2025.

Boston to Bar Harbor Annual Challenge750 Mile Bike/Spin ChallengeSeasonal
Anywhere750 Mile Bike/Spin Challenge~6,500 runners
#5
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Join 6,500 participants in the 2025 Bar Harbor to Boston Annual Challenge, a virtual 750-mile bike and spin adventure that transforms your training into an epic journey from Bar Harbor to Boston. Complete your miles anytime, anywhere while tracking your progress toward the finish line. Whether you're a serious cyclist or just starting out, this challenge rewards consistency and determination with an unforgettable accomplishment.

Bar Harbor to Boston Annual Challenge750 Mile Bike/Spin ChallengeSeasonal
Anywhere750 Mile Bike/Spin Challenge~6,500 runners
#6
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Run through the heart of historic Boston in the premier women's-only 10K in New England, where nearly 6,000 runners gather each year to chase personal bests on a flat, fast course through Beacon Street and Commonwealth Avenue. This empowering race draws women of all abilities—from first-timers to seasoned athletes—looking to experience the magic of running through Beantown. Whether you're seeking a confidence-building race or a meaningful way to connect with the vibrant Boston running community, this event delivers an unforgettable race day experience.

Boston 10K for Women10KFall
Boston10K~6,000 runners
#7
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Celebrate St. Patrick's Day with thousands of runners through the streets of Marshfield, MA at this beloved annual tradition! The Marshfield St. Patrick's Day 5K draws nearly 3,500 participants each year, creating an electric atmosphere of green-clad runners, live music, and Irish hospitality. Whether you're chasing a personal best or embracing the festive spirit with friends and family, this race delivers an unforgettable March tradition.

Marshfield St. Patrick's Day 5k5KSpring
Marshfield5K~3,409 runners
#8
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Experience the scenic beauty of coastal Massachusetts at the Horseneck 3.5 Miler in Westport. This popular race draws approximately 1,100 runners annually through charming New England landscapes. Whether you're a seasoned runner or seeking a memorable first race, this event delivers an unforgettable athletic experience along one of the Bay State's most picturesque routes.

Horseneck Half & 3.5 Miler3.5 Mile RunSeasonal
Westport3.5 Mile Run~1,100 runners
#9
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Celebrate Mother's Day with nearly 1,000 runners at the 16th Annual Mother's Day 5K Walk & Run in historic New Bedford, MA. Whether you walk or run, this family-friendly event offers a scenic course perfect for honoring mothers and creating lasting holiday memories together.

16th Annual Mother's Day 5K Walk & Run14th Annual Mother's Day 5KSpring
New Bedford14th Annual Mother's Day 5K~1,000 runners
#10

The 107th Lexington Lions Patriots Day 5 Mile Road Race is a historic New England running tradition held every April 19th in Lexington, MA – the birthplace of the American Revolution. This iconic 5-mile race attracts approximately 1,000 runners who race past the historic battle green and Revolutionary War sites, making it a must-run event for history buffs and competitive runners alike seeking a race with meaning beyond the miles.

Lexington Lions Patriots Day 5 Mile Road Race107th Patriots Day 5 Mile Road RaceSpring
Lexington107th Patriots Day 5 Mile Road Race~1,000 runners
#11

Run 6.66 devilish miles through the haunted streets of Salem, Massachusetts at this unforgettable Halloween race! The Devils Chase combines spine-tingling atmosphere with your choice of the full 6.66-mile challenge or the shorter 3.33-mile Creepy Clown distance, drawing about 1,000 thrill-seeking runners each October to America's most famously spooky city.

Devils Chase 6.66 & Creepy Clown 3.33Little Devil RunFall
SalemLittle Devil Run~1,000 runners
#12
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The Worcester Firefighters 6K 3K Walk is a heartwarming community event that unites approximately 1,000 walkers in support of local firefighting heroes. This family-friendly walk winds through the streets of Worcester, Massachusetts, offering participants a chance to honor the brave men and women of the Worcester Fire Department while enjoying a fun, accessible outdoor activity. Perfect for families, beginners, and anyone looking to combine fitness with philanthropy, this event creates lasting memories while giving back to those who serve our communities.

Worcester Firefighters 6K3K WalkSummer
Worcester3K Walk~1,000 runners
#13

The Vanessa T. Marcotte Foundation 5K Run/Walk brings together nearly 900 runners each year in Princeton, Massachusetts, honoring a meaningful cause while bringing the community together for a day of movement and remembrance. This family-friendly 5K welcomes participants of all fitness levels to walk or run through scenic Princeton while supporting the foundation's mission. Whether you're a competitive runner or just looking for a meaningful way to spend a morning, this event offers a supportive atmosphere with views of central Massachusetts countryside.

Vanessa T. Marcotte Foundation 5K Run/Walk5KSummer
Princeton5K~900 runners
#14
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The Groton Road Race 10K is a beloved New England running tradition winding through the historic streets of Groton, Massachusetts. Drawing nearly 900 runners annually, this community-centered race offers the perfect blend of competitive racing and small-town charm. Whether you're chasing a personal best or looking for a scenic spring challenge, the Groton Road Race delivers an authentic Massachusetts running experience.

Groton Road Race10KSpring
Groton10K~900 runners
#15
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The Esplanade 5K Run & Walk invites runners and walkers to experience Boston's most scenic riverside course along the beautiful Charles River Esplanade. This community-focused event draws approximately 800 participants annually, offering a perfect opportunity for both beginners and seasoned runners to enjoy an accessible, flat course in one of America's most historic cities. Whether you're chasing a personal best or enjoying a casual walk with friends, this event delivers an unforgettable Boston experience.

Esplanade 5K Run & Walk1 Addition-StandardFall
Boston1 Addition-Standard~800 runners
#16

The Boys and Girls Club of Greater Westfield 5k brings together approximately 800 runners each year in support of local youth programs. This community-focused race winds through the streets of Westfield, Massachusetts, offering an accessible distance perfect for first-timers and seasoned runners alike. All proceeds benefit the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Westfield, making every stride a contribution to the community's future.

Boys and Girls Club of Greater Westfield Half MarathonBoys and Girls Club of Greater Westfield 5kSpring
WestfieldBoys and Girls Club of Greater Westfield 5k~800 runners
#17
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The Title 9 Women's Triathlon Buddy Wave 1 brings approximately 650 women to the historic starting town of the Boston Marathon for an unforgettable race experience. This empowering all-female event in Hopkinton, MA celebrates women in sports with a supportive community atmosphere. Perfect for athletes seeking a competitive yet encouraging triathlon environment.

Title 9 Women's TriathlonBuddy Wave 1Fall
HopkintonBuddy Wave 1~650 runners
#18

The Seven Sisters Trail Race Charity Bibs in Amherst, MA gives runners the chance to make every mile meaningful by participating for a cause close to their hearts. Join approximately 500 runners in 2025 as they tackle the scenic Seven Sisters trails while raising funds and awareness for charity. This event is perfect for runners who want to combine their passion for trail running with philanthropy in the beautiful New England landscape.

Seven Sisters Trail Race Charity BibsCharity BibSpring
AmherstCharity Bib~500 runners
#19
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The USATF-NE Road Mile Championships in Hopkinton, MA is New England's premier one-mile road race, drawing approximately 500 runners to compete on a flat, fast course through historic Hopkinton. This community event is perfect for both competitive runners seeking a quick, challenging distance and recreational runners looking to test their speed. Starting from the same iconic location as the Boston Marathon, this race offers a unique opportunity to run where marathon legends begin their journey.

USATF-NE Road Mile ChampionshipsCommunity MileSummer
HopkintonCommunity Mile~500 runners
#20
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The Crush Cancer 5K and 3K Family Fun Walk brings together nearly 500 participants in Bridgewater, MA for a day of community, remembrance, and hope. This family-friendly event welcomes all ages and fitness levels to walk, jog, or run while raising awareness and funds for cancer research. Whether you're a seasoned runner or pushing a stroller, you'll feel the powerful sense of unity as the community comes together to crush cancer one step at a time.

Crush Cancer 5K and 3K Family Fun Walk3K Family Fun WalkSpring
Bridgewater3K Family Fun Walk~496 runners
#21

Test your limits on the challenging hills of Haverhill, MA at this scenic 10-mile road race that draws ~411 runners each year. All proceeds support the Michelle Benedetti Scholarship Fund, making every stride toward the finish line a contribution to local student athletes. Perfect for runners seeking a tough, rewarding challenge with community spirit and a meaningful cause.

Hill Thrill 5k or 10 Mile Road Race (Michelle Benedetti Scholarship Fund)10 Mile RunSpring
Haverhill10 Mile Run~411 runners
#22
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This cambridge 5k @ cambridgeside in Cambridge, MA, organized by Cambridge 5K @ CambridgeSide, cambridge 5k @ cambridgeside. It's a solid choice for runners of all levels looking for a cambridge 5k @ cambridgeside in the Cambridge, MA area.

Cambridge 5K @ CambridgeSideCambridge 5K @ CambridgeSideSeasonal
CambridgeCambridge 5K @ CambridgeSide~309 runners
#23

Womp Romp

Norwell, MA

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The Womp Romp 10 Miler delivers an intimate racing experience through the scenic streets of Norwell, Massachusetts. With approximately 300 runners, this spring race offers a more personal atmosphere than larger events, making it perfect for experienced runners seeking a challenging New England distance without the crowds. The 10-mile route provides an ideal balance of distance and difficulty for those looking to test their endurance.

Womp Romp10 MilerFall
Norwell10 Miler~300 runners
#24
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This paddy kelly in Brockton, MA, organized by Paddy Kelly 10K Road Race 2026, paddy kelly . It's a solid choice for runners of all levels looking for a paddy kelly in the Brockton, MA area.

Paddy Kelly 10K Road Race 2026Paddy KellySpring
BrocktonPaddy Kelly~285 runners
#25
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Experience the charm of a New England summer at the Narragansett Summer Running Festival 10k in North Easton, Massachusetts. This intimate community race draws approximately 281 runners annually through scenic country roads, making it perfect for both competitive runners seeking a personal best and recreational runners looking for a memorable summer challenge. The festival atmosphere combined with classic Massachusetts scenery creates an unforgettable racing experience.

Narragansett Summer Running Festival10kSummer
North Easton10k~281 runners
Top 25 Races in Massachusetts | RacesReviewed