On May 23, 2025, the quiet charm of Burlington, Vermont will once again come alive with the rhythmic beat of thousands of footsteps as the Vermont City Marathon takes over Memorial Day Weekend. This New England classic is more than just a race – it’s a celebration of community, endurance, and Vermont’s natural beauty, all set against the stunning backdrop of Lake Champlain.

While runners to the north will flock to Ottawa or Calgary for Canada’s mega-fast spring marathons, the Vermont City Marathon offers a uniquely intimate experience – one that balances small-town warmth with a big-time race feel.

The Course: A Lakefront Tour of Burlington at Its Best

The 2025 Vermont City Marathon course will once again showcase what makes this event so special. Runners will start and finish in Battery Park, overlooking Lake Champlain, with panoramic views of the Adirondacks across the water. The route will take runners through the heart of downtown Burlington, along paved bike paths, residential neighborhoods, and the tree-lined shores of the lake.

The course features a mix of gentle hills, rolling terrain, and long, flat stretches – a layout that invites strong pacing while still keeping runners on their toes. The final miles along the Burlington Bike Path are particularly beloved, offering quiet, scenic beauty that’s only broken by the increasing sound of cheers near the finish line.

The Energy: Small City, Big Heart

With about 8,000 runners expected between the full marathon and the relay events, the Vermont City Marathon has earned its reputation as one of the best-organized mid-sized races in the U.S. Volunteers and spectators bring an incredible level of enthusiasm – this is a race where the whole town seems to come out and support you.

The relay component of the event also adds to the fun and accessibility, with five-person teams covering the full 26.2 miles. You’ll feel that team spirit at every exchange zone, making for a dynamic and social race environment.

Weather, Strategy, and the Famous Beltline

May in Vermont can offer cool, crisp conditions – often in the high 40s or low 50s at the start – making it ideal for marathoners aiming for strong times. The race is known for its scenic beauty and strong organization, but one segment that runners always prepare for is the Burlington Beltline. This highway stretch can be mentally tough and slightly exposed to wind, but race veterans know it’s all part of the experience – and the community support ramps up immediately afterward.

Finish Line Festivities and Lakefront Recovery

Crossing the finish line in Battery Park is a reward in itself – music, cheering crowds, and the view of Lake Champlain waiting at the end of the chute. Finishers can expect a festive post-race vibe with food trucks, live entertainment, and all the maple-flavored charm you’d hope for in Vermont. Whether you’re racing for a PR, completing your first marathon, or holding the baton as a relay runner, the celebration will be equally sweet.

Why May 23 Is Worth Watching

While many runners will be chasing speed records on Canada’s famously fast courses in Ottawa or Calgary, Burlington’s Vermont City Marathon will offer something different: beauty, community, and character. It may not be the flattest or the flashiest, but it’s consistently ranked as one of the most scenic and best-loved marathons in the U.S.

If you’re looking for a race where lake breezes meet mountain views, and where the crowd knows your name by the second mile, Vermont City on May 23 is the place to be. It’s not just a marathon – it’s a New England tradition.