Marathon Monday survival guide

By Ben Brondsky, Features Staff Writer

The third Monday in April is the greatest day to be a college student in Boston. Also known as Marathon Monday or Patriot’s Day, the city shuts down for a day and area college students day drink and revel in the glory of the beautiful spring weather. And maybe watch the Boston Marathon.

If you are a newcomer to Boston, Marathon Monday can be a scary and wild experience. Some people love it, some people hate it, but as a student in Boston, you have to experience it at least once. Do not worry if you don’t know what to do or where to go. Here’s your definitive guide.

Wake up and get ready early:

The Boston Marathon does not officially start until 9 a.m., but you want to be up and well prepared before then. And probably start drinking. Around 500,000 people are expected to attend the event, so don’t be the last person trying to find a spot to stand and watch the runners.

 Keep it low key:

Everyone knows what Marathon Monday is about, besides the marathon. Read: day drinking. Since BU really doesn’t have much of a spring weekend like other schools, this is our one big chance to let lose for a day. Yes, the kegs and eggs will be plentiful, but this isn’t spring break in Cabo. Keep yourself in check and try not to be a bother to the folks who aren’t inebriated college students.

Coordinate with your friends:

You might have friends in different dorms or who are at different parts of the race. Good luck meeting up with anyone after that, as you’ll probably not be able to locate them in the sea of drunk kids in South Campus or Kenmore. Pro tip: Stick with a certain amount of people the whole day—better yet, meet up the night before and have a sleepover. Just make sure not to get a noise violation. Coordinating outfits is also an easy way to stay together and be able to keep track of each other. Plus, what BU biddie doesn’t like showing off their matching Marathon Monday shirts?

 Don’t stress and have fun:

 Marathon Monday is an experience all of its own. Most colleges don’t have anything like this, so enjoy it and just go with the flow. And try not to go too overboard—you do have class the next day.