Boston Commemorates 2013 Marathon Bombings with Annual One Boston Day Events

BOSTON – On April 15, 2025, the city of Boston will hold its annual One Boston Day to honor the victims and survivors of the 2013 Boston Marathon bombings, which occurred precisely twelve years ago. The day features a memorial ceremony, community service projects, and a moment of reflection intended to bring unity and resilience to the city.

Beginning at 10 a.m., Boston Mayor Michelle Wu and the families of the victims will gather at Boylston Street to lay wreaths at the memorials dedicated to those lost. The ceremony will be marked by the somber remembrance of three individuals who perished in the attacks: Martin Richard, age 8; Lingzi Lu, age 23; and Krystle Campbell, age 29. Additionally, MIT police officer Sean Collier was killed a few days later during the manhunt for the bombers, while Boston police officer Dennis Simmonds succumbed to injuries from the chase in 2014.

At precisely 2:49 p.m., the time of the first explosion, there will be a moment of silence observed across the city, and church bells will toll at Old South Church to commemorate the tragic event.

“Boston is a city built on community,” Mayor Wu said. “A city where our strength is each other. We have always taken care of our own. Twelve years ago, we endured a tragedy that shook our city to the core.”

One Boston Day encourages residents not only to honor those who were affected by the tragedy but also to engage in acts of kindness throughout the community. Various service projects, including a neighborhood cleanup at Franklin Park at 8:45 a.m. on Saturday and a blood drive on Marathon Monday, April 21, will be available for all to participate.

In the wake of the event, the Boston College Eagles baseball team will also commemorate One Boston Day by wearing special blue and yellow jerseys during their upcoming three-game series against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish this weekend.

More information can be found on the city’s official website, showcasing ways to honor the day and participate in service projects across Boston.