Boston Marathon Creates Millions in Revenue

By Phil Orlandella

An estimated $188.8 million dollars was generated by the 120th Boston Marathon-related events throughout the Greater Boston region according to Greater Boston Convention and Visitors Bureau (GBCVB) President and CEO Patrick Moscaritolo.

This year’s marathon had just over 30,000 official participants including more than 6,400 runners from 98 countries. More than 1,200 members of the media from over 200 outlets covered the Patriots Day prestigious road racing, which was started in 1897 by the Boston Athletic Association (BAA).

The 26.2 mile foot race provided the region with unparalleled international and United States exposure.

For the 31st consecutive year, the principal sponsor of the marathon was John Hancock Financial while providing the first ever prize purse for the world’s oldest consecutively running marathon.

“All of us in the Boston area visitor industry look forward each year to the Boston Marathon and the remarkable spending impacts this historic event brings to our community,” said Moscaritolo.

Nearly all of those involved in the Boston Marathon patronized Greater Boston restaurants, hotels, shops and other local businesses over the course of Boston Marathon week.

Also among 2016 Marathon-related events was the B.A.A. 5K two days prior to the Boston Marathon. This year’s B.A.A. 5K had an event record field size limit of 10,000 entrants.