FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE-Media Advisory

40,000 Daffodils to Welcome Runners for the 130th Boston Marathon

Boston blooms again for Patriots’ Day 2026

Boston, MA — April 14, 2026 —Strong ties to Boston’s neighborhoods—including Charlestown and communities along the marathon route—the effort is supported by hundreds local volunteers and organizations.

As Boston prepares for the 130th running of the Boston Marathon, hundreds of volunteers will place 40,000 Marathon Daffodils in 7,700 pots across the city, creating a vibrant welcome for runners and visitors and marking the arrival of spring.

Now in its 13th year, Marathon Daffodils has become a beloved Patriots’ Day tradition—transforming Boston’s streets, landmarks, and neighborhoods into a living symbol of hope, renewal, and resilience.

This year’s Marathon coincides with the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, adding deeper meaning to a tradition rooted in remembrance and community spirit. The daffodils honor those impacted by the Boston Marathon bombing, while celebrating the strength and unity of the city.

Where to See the Daffodils-
Visuals---Planting and Potting April 17, 2026

8:30 am 540 Albany Street
9:30 am Along Boylston, Newbury Street, Commonwealth, Christopher Columbus Park

Daffodils will line key points along the Marathon route and across Boston, including:

Boylston Street and the Back Bay
Commonwealth Avenue Mall and the Public Garden
Boston Common and The Embrace
Charlestown, including the Bunker Hill Monument and Navy Yard and City Square
The Esplanade and Charles River
Downtown, neighborhood parks, hotels, restaurants, and public spaces citywide

Community-Wide Effort

The initiative is powered by hundreds of volunteers, local businesses, garden clubs, and community partners, with daffodils also delivered to Boston hospitals in recognition of their extraordinary care and service.

A Living Symbol of Boston Strong

Founded by Charlestown resident Diane Valle following the Boston Marathon bombing, Marathon Daffodils continues to grow each year as a visible expression of Boston’s enduring spirit.

“The Marathon Daffodils are a living symbol of hope, spring, and renewal,” said Clive Olsen Jr., Vice President of Marathon Daffodils.

Media Contact
Diane Valle
617-791-5663
dianevalle@gmail.com

Donate / Learn More:
https://www.marathondaffodils.org/donate/

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