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Here are some of the most creative signs from the Boston Marathon sidelines

WBUR Newsroom

April 21, 2025

With 26.2 miles of race, spectators need to find creative ways to keep runners motivated each year. But we give bonus points to the signs with extra Boston flair.

Sure, there are always the classics, like poking fun at the MBTA. But some of the signs spotted during the 129th Boston Marathon really went the extra mile.

Take some of the spectators by Wellesley College. Mixed in with the typical "Kiss me" posters, Wellesley senior Katherine Li gave a nod to current events with her sign that read “Run like you just found out there’s a 200% tariff on walking.”

Wellesley students, including Katherine Li (left), show off their signs. (Rachell Sanchez-Smith/WBUR)

Here are a few more signs from the day to make you chuckle:

One of the many signs along the course at the Boston Marathon. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)

A Citgo sign made, in part, of paper Dunkin' cups directs marathoners in Natick. (Meagan McGinnes/WBUR) — A Citgo sign made, in part, of paper Dunkin' cups directs marathoners in Natick. (Courtesy of Meghan Gill)

Spectators raise handmade signs in Coolidge Corner, Brookline. (Sharon Brody/WBUR)

Wellesley College students cheer on the runners, one holding a sign reading "each of you are a beauty who run like. a beast." (Suzanne Kreiter/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

A marathon fan holds a sign reading, "Hill? More like speed bump," on Heartbreak Hill during the 129th Boston Marathon. (Danielle Parhizkaran/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

And while not a sign, we need to give creative credit where it's due for this revolutionary costume.

See a funny sign that we missed? Share with us your photo on Instagram or by emailing newsletters@wbur.org.