Marathon Monday is considered a holiday by most Boston University students. It’s a day when classes are canceled and people flock to Allston for a good time as people run the marathon through the city of Boston. But, if you want to know how to prepare for a day full of dartying keep reading!
1. You’ll be getting up early.
Last year, I woke up at 5:30 AM to get ready for a 6:00 AM pregame. The pregames start early on Marathon Monday because the parties start at 9 AM or 10 AM. On class days or usually any day, I hate waking up early. I’m not an early bird; however, on Marathon Monday it’s somehow so easy to wake up. Maybe it’s because you know you have a fun-filled day ahead of you. If you’re in the heart of the Kenmore area of Boston, you’ll see police setting up barriers for the marathon because the runners run right through that area. Either way, you’re going to be waking up early.
2. Be prepared.
My sorority provided everyone with fanny packs last year that said: “Stay Hydrated.” In there, I kept mints, snacks, tums, and Advil. Partying on Marathon Monday is literally its own marathon, and you must be prepared. This year, I’m going to also pack a little portable fan and a bottle of water. I think fanny packs are more convenient because they’re smaller than backpacks, but small backpacks are a good option to carry essentials too. Also, don’t forget sunscreen! It can get really sunny and most of the day is spent outside so sunscreen and sunglasses are a must.
3. Bring your student ID with you.
Do not forget your student ID. Usually, around 2 PM or 3 PM, everyone flocks to the West dining hall for ice cold Gatorade and french fries. If you don’t have your ID, someone is going to need to guest swipe you in, which is fine, but it’s easier to just bring your own ID. It’s nice to rest a bit and laugh with your friends, especially if it’s hot and sunny outside. It’s also fun to go to the dining hall during Marathon Monday because you’ll run into other people you know. After everyone recharges, they go back out into Allston to find another party.
4. You will crash.
Around 4 PM, you will probably crash like my friends and I all did last year. We walked from Allston all the way back to our dorms in Kenmore Square and took to our beds. It was such a long day filled with sun, loud music, and socializing. I remember last year we ordered pizza and fell asleep at 8 PM, which was probably good since classes resume at normal times the next day.
5. It’s a rite of passage.
All BU students know what Marathon Monday is. Your first Marathon Monday is a rite of passage, really. There are so many good Marathon Monday stories. Some of my friends have walked all the way down to the Boston Common from Allston, some have ended up at MIT, and others have actually met some of their best friends on Marathon Monday. It’s a great time to be a college student in Boston! You never know what will happen or who you’ll see or where you’ll go.
Marathon Monday is in less than two weeks so get excited and get ready for a long, fun day!
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