Spring brings with it the promise of annual staples for Bostonians: the sudden departure of college students, the return of food trucks and, of course, the Boston Marathon (or Marathon Monday to those of us who just want another excuse to day drink.) Check out our list of marathon-related events to celebrate this time-honored tradition (and yes, alcohol is served at most of them): Pre-Marathon Warm-Up Party Head to Bastille Kitchen for a free mixer with marathoners, running enthusiasts and party people alike, located in the Chalet Lounge (Bonus: no running required.) After all, you should probably unwind before you get into all that tiresome (post-) marathon partying you’re going to be doing. John Hancock Sports and Fitness Expo If the need to sample fitness gear strikes, check out this expo for some inspiration and the chance to pick up tickets for the Boston Marathon Pre-Race Dinner where you can rub shoulders with some of the most elite runners in the world while ‘carbo-loading.’ Plus, get inspired for next year’s marathon through free runner’s seminars with standing room only. Greg Hill Foundation’s Boston Marathon Party Watch the runners complete their grueling race from the comfort of Capital Grille’s front bar overlooking Boylston Street. Add a cold Sam Adam’s 26.2 Brew and a few friends and you’ve got a pretty decent kickback for Marathon Monday. It’s the perfect way to celebrate elite sportsmanship without expending an ounce of effort. Boston Marathon-inspired artwork at Marathon Sports For a shot of marathon inspiration, check out this collection of paintings by marathoners on display at Marathon Sports in Brookline. Each painting highlights the joys and difficulties of completing what is arguably one of the most difficult things a person can attempt. It’ll definitely remind you why we make such a big deal out of this grueling race and why it’s worth celebrating. Mile 27 Official Post-Race Party The marathon is a fantastic excuse to party, and what better place is there to celebrate the marathon than Fenway Park? Enjoy music, dancing and a couple of drinks while you admire the runners’ post-race condition (fair warning: it’s not pretty.) Pick up tickets at the John Hancock Sports and Fitness Expo.
Saturday, 9:00 p.m.-1:00 a.m.
The Chalet Lounge at Bastille Kitchen
49 Melcher St.
FREE
www.eventbrite.com
Friday-Sunday (times vary)
One Design Center Place
FREE
www.sportsfitnessexpo.com
Monday, 11:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.
The Capital Grille
900 Boylston St.
$100
www.eventbrite.com
Through April 24
1638 Beacon St., Brookline
FREE
www.marathonsports.com
Monday, 6:30-10:30 p.m.
Fenway Park
$20 per ticket (free for marathoners)
www.baa.org
Five ways to celebrate the Boston Marathon (all weekend long)
Courtesy of Marathon Sports
