There is something about a New England fall that makes you want to lace up and go long. The humidity finally breaks. The leaves put on a show. And the race calendar fills up with some of the most scenic half marathons you’ll find anywhere. Massachusetts is the perfect place to chase 13.1 this season, with 15 half marathons coming up on the calendar and enough variety to suit every kind of runner — from first-timers looking for a welcoming course to veterans chasing a new personal best.
Whether you want the energy of a big-city race or the charm of a small coastal town, there’s a Massachusetts half marathon calling your name. Here are four we’re especially excited about.
Featured Races
Newburyport Half Marathon and Relay
Date: Sunday, October 25, 2026
City: Newburyport, Massachusetts
Kick off the fall race season along the North Shore. The Newburyport Half takes you through a picture-perfect coastal town that has that classic New England feel. If you’re not quite ready to tackle all 13.1 solo, there’s a relay option — a great way to get a team together and enjoy the course with friends. This one earns a solid 84 out of 100 from our runner community, and it’s a wonderful way to start your Massachusetts road trip.
Cambridge Half Marathon + 5K
Date: Saturday, October 31, 2026
City: Cambridge, Massachusetts
Want a race with personality? Run the Cambridge Half on Halloween morning. Expect a lively, energetic atmosphere in one of the country’s most vibrant college towns. The course typically draws a big crowd, and the 5K option makes it easy to bring along a friend or family member who’s still finding their groove. With a 91 out of 100 quality score, this is a Runner Favorite — and a memorable way to spend the last day of October.
B.A.A. Half Marathon
Date: Sunday, November 8, 2026
City: Boston, Massachusetts
You can’t talk about running in Massachusetts without mentioning the B.A.A. The same organization behind the Boston Marathon puts on this half, and it carries that same race-day polish. Running through the streets of Boston in November is a bucket-list experience in itself. It’s a well-organized, crowd-supported event that scores a 90 out of 100 from runners who know a good race when they see one.
Harborside Half Marathon & 5K
Date: Sunday, November 8, 2026
City: Newburyport, Massachusetts
If you’d rather trade the big city for salt air and harbor views, the Harborside Half is happening the same day as the B.A.A. — which means you get to choose your flavor. This one scores an impressive 87 out of 100, and it’s perfect for runners who love a scenic, slightly quieter race. The 5K route is also a great entry point if you’re just starting your half marathon journey.
Plan Your Massachusetts Half Marathon
With two races in Newburyport and one each in Cambridge and Boston, you have plenty to choose from. And these are just the tip of the iceberg — there are 15 upcoming half marathons around Massachusetts to explore.
Looking for a date that works, a course profile that fits, or a new town to explore? Browse the full list of half marathons in Massachusetts and find your next fall adventure. From your first 13.1 to your next state, Massachusetts is ready for you.