The START of Something Extraordinary Kicks Off!

Hopkinton’s about to get a little brighter. This April, The START of Something Extraordinary kicks off—a series of events that bring the entire community together. The festival happens just as the Boston Marathon® presented by Bank of America rolls into town. The program is a nod to Hopkinton’s iconic place at the starting line of the world’s most famous road race. It invites locals and visitors to celebrate the town’s legacy.

Every spring, Main Street fills with runners—thousands of them—each ready to tackle 26.2 miles to Boston. This year, the spotlight’s not just on the runners. Instead, from arts and culture to music and public art, April’s calendar is packed with ways to connect with the marathon’s history. You can also connect with the spirit that’s defined Hopkinton for generations.

The 26.2 Foundation and the Hopkinton Center for the Arts (HCA) lead the charge, with DELL Technologies as premier sponsor. Events run April 2 through April 26, right through Marathon week.

Stories and Songs April 2 | Hopkinton Center for the Arts

The celebration starts with Stories and Songs—an evening that promises to stick with you. Five marathoners step up to the mic to share real, personal stories—triumphs, setbacks, everything in between. Each runner picks a song that means something to them. Then, after each story, a live band brings that song to life. It’s raw, honest, and deeply moving.

You see the human side of those athletes on the starting line—their grit, their hopes, their music. If you love running, music, or just good storytelling, you’ll find something here. Doors open the evening of April 2.

Winged Foot Art Exhibition and Auction April 4–26 | Hopkinton Town Common

Hopkinton Town Common turns into an open-air art gallery starting April 4. Local artists each create a “winged foot”—26 in total, one for every mile of the marathon. Each of these sculptures is a unique take on the marathon spirit. They will fill the Common with color and energy all month. It’s free to wander, snap photos, and soak in the creativity. Plus, there’s an auction if you want to take a piece home. As a result, it’s a chance for runners, residents, and visitors to come together and share in the excitement leading up to Marathon Monday.

The stART Line Experience April 18–26 | Hopkinton Town Common

The stART Line Experience is all about discovery. Grab a map, and start at ‘The Girl Who Ran’, a sculpture done by Bobbi Gibb, who broke barriers as the first woman to run the Boston Marathon in 1966, and make your way through Hopkinton’s collection of Marathon Legend Sculptures. You can scan QR codes at each stop to hear the stories behind the art and the people who shaped the marathon. The tour’s perfect for families, students, or anyone curious about Hopkinton’s role in marathon history. There are even online coupons for local restaurants to make a day of it.

Marathon Mural April 4–26 | Hopkinton Public Library

Don’t miss the Marathon Mural displayed outside at the Hopkinton Public Library. The Mural, done by artist Faith Sycaoyao, is a visual tribute to the spirit of the race and the town’s pride in its history, and adds another must-see spot to the growing list of festivities.
The library is the perfect place for it, right at the heart of Hopkinton’s community life. A Month of Art, Community, and Marathon Spirit

The Start of Something Extraordinary brings the whole town together. Whether you’re a veteran spectator, a first-time visitor, or someone who just wants to see Hopkinton in a new light, these events open the door.

Watch the world’s best runners take off on April 20. Alternatively, spend the month soaking in art, music, and stories that make Hopkinton special.

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Want to Get Involved?

• Become a Sponsor (opportunities range from $500 to $3,500)
• Join us at Stories & Songs—bring a friend or two! TICKETS
• Share our social media posts to spread the word
• Invite others to get involved and celebrate with us

Show Your Community Pride!

APPAREL: Check out the apparel site where you can easily find ‘The START’ gear and have it shipped right to your door.

All proceeds support the 26.2 Foundation and the HCA
Special thanks to “The Start’ Premier Sponsor, DELL Technologies.

More Information: kim.chisholm@26-2.org
The QR code links directly to the website and provides more information about opportunities to participate.