Ready, Set, Run! For nearly four decades, RunVermont’s  M&T Bank Vermont City Marathon & Relay has been a hallmark event in the New England running scene, attracting athletes from across the country to the streets of Burlington for this Boston Marathon qualifying race. What sets this marathon apart isn’t just the stunning views of Lake Champlain or the fun two-loop 13.1-mile course; it’s the energizing community, strong history, and commitment to inclusivity that have defined the event since its beginning.

The Vermont City Marathon takes place on May 25, 2025. Folks have options to register and participate in a variety of ways, like opting in for the full marathon, being part of a 2-person relay, or gathering a crew for the 3-5-person relay. RunVermont is also hosting the 23rd Annual Mini Marathon,  and inaugural Vermont City Two Mile, crafted explicitly for runners aged 4 - 14. Kids can join in on the race day excitement with the Mini Marathon and Vermont City Two Mile on Saturday, May 24, where they’ll have a chance to participate around Waterfront Park. 

 

Relay team from a past Vermont City Marathon.

 

A Groundbreaking First: The Marathon with a Relay Component

When the Vermont City Marathon was established in 1989, it introduced something revolutionary to the long-distance running world: a relay component. This innovation allowed runners of all experience levels to participate, breaking the notion that a marathon was only for elite athletes or seasoned distance runners. The relay format opened the door for families, local businesses, schools, and friends to form teams and experience the camaraderie of race day together. The event quickly became a celebration of both individual endurance and collective effort, reinforcing the idea that running is for everyone, no matter their experience level.



 

Women smiling and holding up signs for the Vermont City Marathon.

A Marathon Built on Community Spirit

The most defining aspect of the Vermont City Marathon is the unwavering commitment from the community. From the thousands of spectators lining the streets, cheering on first-time marathoners and seasoned veterans, to the volunteers handing out water and UnTapped maple syrup packets, the event thrives on local support. The Vermont City Marathon is a celebration of Burlington itself, as enthusiastic fans share handmade signs while local bands play music along the course, and businesses open their doors to welcome the influx of visitors.

In recent years, the event has reinforced its commitment to inclusivity and accessibility, ensuring that people of all identities and abilities can participate. The event upholds its mission of bringing people together by offering relay, handcycle, and pushrim formats as well as prize money for the fastest runners in the nonbinary, male, and female divisions.


 

Anthea Dexter-Cooper has been running since she was a child. Here she's pictured participating in the Running Leggs Mini Marathon in the late 80s.Anthea Dexter-Cooper is pictured here running with her mom in 2012.



A Testament to Life-Long Community Bonds

The Vermont City Marathon has earned widespread recognition over the years, with inspiring stories emerging from its participants. One such story featured in the Saint Albans Messenger highlights RunVermont’s Executive Director, Anthea Dexter-Cooper, a runner whose dedication and passion for the sport resonated with many in the Vermont running community. Having grown up running the marathon with her family as a child (pictured above), Dexter-Cooper’s connection to the race remains lasting. Her story embodies the spirit of the Vermont City Marathon, showing how the event is not just about competition but about long-lasting, local community connections that just feel original to Vermont. Whether through personal triumphs or as part of a relay team, runners like Dexter-Cooper bring a personal, genuine dimension to the event. 
 

People running up Main Street from the Waterfront during the Vermont City Marathon in Burlington, VT.Vermont City Marathoners start the race on the Burlington Waterfront


The Heart of Vermont’s Running Scene

With its rich history, trailblazing relay component, and deep community ties, the Vermont City Marathon is a shining example of what makes running events special. It’s not just about the finish line; it’s about the shared experience, the connections formed, and the stories told along the way. As each year brings new faces and new milestones, the marathon remains a testament to the spirit of Vermont: Resilient, welcoming, and always ready to go the distance.

 

Vermont City Marathon runners high five on Church Street


 

M&T Bank Vermont City Marathon

​Here are some helpful resources for more information about the 2025 M&T Bank Vermont City Marathon & Relay.

 

 

We encourage you to get involved in this exciting event by running, volunteering, or cheering on the participants!