Safety

How to Celebrate Marathon Monday While Staying Safe and Healthy

Your guide to a fun, safe, and healthy Marathon Monday

The excitement in Boston on Marathon Monday is palpable—it’s a special moment for the city, and the BU community, to rally behind the runners. And with that excitement comes plenty of celebration.

It’s a misconception that everyone drinks heavily on Marathon Monday. According to the Spring 2023 BU National College Health Assessment survey, nearly one‑third of BU students reported not drinking any alcohol in the past three months. Among those who do drink, 75 percent said they’d only had alcohol once or twice during that time. That means plenty of Terriers enjoy Marathon Monday while staying alcohol‑free or keeping it moderate—proof you can soak up the day’s incredible energy and cheer on the Marathon runners without a drink in hand.

Again, the best way to enjoy the Marathon is together!

Drinking or not, these six tips will help you make the most of Marathon Monday while staying safe and healthy:

Tip #1

Make sure to hydrate

Marathon Monday can be a long day. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Be sure to eat a hearty breakfast and keep snacks on hand to maintain your energy levels.

Tip #2

Pace yourself

If you choose to drink, start slow and pace yourself. Alternate between alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks, and try to keep your consumption to one standard drink per hour. Remember, drinking more doesn’t necessarily make the day more enjoyable.

Tip #3

Avoid BORGs (blackout rage gallons)

While the idea of mixing your own drink might seem safer, BORGs are known for encouraging excessive drinking. Because the large volume makes it hard to track how much alcohol you’re consuming, it’s easy to go overboard and end up dangerously intoxicated. Stick to standard drinks you can monitor—it’s much safer and more enjoyable in the long run.

Tip #4

Know your limits and look out for friends

It’s important to stay aware of your limits. Don’t be afraid to skip a drink or take a break. Also, keep an eye out for your friends. More than half of college students report experiencing alcohol-related harms caused by others. This just goes to show why making safe, responsible choices—whether you’re drinking or not—and looking out for your fellow Terriers is so important. If someone seems overly intoxicated, make sure they’re safe and help them get home if needed.

Tip #5

Familiarize yourself with the Good Samaritan Policy

BU’s Good Samaritan Policy is there to protect you. If you or a friend need medical assistance because of alcohol or drug use, you won’t face disciplinary action. When in doubt, make the call (on campus, call BUPD at 617‑353‑2121; off campus, dial 911). It’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Tip #6

Don’t forget to cheer on the marathoners!

The electric environment all around Boston exists because amazing athletes travel from all over the world to compete. Boston hosts the oldest annual marathon in the world—and it’s absolutely iconic. Celebrate Boston and BU pride by cheering on all racers (runners and wheelchair racers) at one of the many great viewing spots along campus. We recommend heading to the Kenmore Square area or the corner of Beacon Street and Park Drive, right along South Campus.

Marathon Monday is about celebrating as a community. Whether you choose to drink or not, make sure you’re prioritizing your safety and the safety of those around you. Take care of yourself, and have fun out there, Terriers.

Cheers to a memorable and safe Marathon Monday!