Every spring, the Brooklyn half marathon brings an incredible wave of excitement to the borough. In 2025, the NYCRUNS Brooklyn Experience Half Marathon is set to break new records, welcoming 25,000 runners to the streets of Brooklyn. Participants and spectators alike are eager to know about the route, road closures, and the unique experiences awaiting them at this year’s event.

Route Overview and Start Times

The 2025 Brooklyn half marathon course takes runners on an unforgettable journey through iconic Brooklyn neighborhoods, beginning near McCarren Park in Williamsburg. The route covers classic locations such as Greenpoint, DUMBO, Downtown Brooklyn, and eventually finishes in the scenic Prospect Park. Starting bright and early, the first wave kicks off at 7:00 a.m., with three more waves following until 8:40 a.m., ensuring a smooth start for all participants. For a full breakdown of the course and start times, refer to CBS New York’s route guide, which also includes a handy interactive map.

Road Closures and Navigating Brooklyn

With thousands of runners traversing major streets, residents and visitors should stay informed about traffic impacts. The marathon necessitates several road closures throughout Brooklyn, beginning as early as 6:00 p.m. the night before the race. Some of the main streets affected include Berry Street, Nassau Avenue, Bedford Avenue, Manhattan Avenue, and stretches through DUMBO and Downtown Brooklyn. Both Gothamist and CBS New York provide detailed street closure information to help locals plan their commutes and avoid disruptions.

What Makes the Brooklyn Half Marathon Special?

The Brooklyn half marathon isn’t just about running fast. It’s also about experiencing the borough’s vibrant culture. This year’s race features key course enhancements and exciting partnerships with local businesses, making the event more than just a competition. Race partner Oatly hosts the popular Halfway Halftime Show, energizing runners and supporters midway through the course. Post-race festivities in Prospect Park offer recovery stations, free drinks, and entertainment for finishers and their families. According to Endurance Sportswire, the event continues to grow, highlighting Brooklyn’s community spirit and commitment to supporting local causes.

Tracking Results and Participating Locally

Whether you are running, volunteering, or cheering from the sidelines, staying updated during the race is simple. The official NYCRUNS Brooklyn Experience Half Marathon app offers live tracking, interactive maps, and the latest race info. The app is available for free on the Apple App Store and Google Play. After the race, official results are posted on the NYCRUNS website. With more runners than ever supporting local charities, the half marathon champions both fitness and giving back to Brooklyn’s neighborhoods.

Summary

The Brooklyn half marathon in 2025 promises to celebrate the borough’s energy, diversity, and pride. From a carefully crafted route to festive on-course experiences, there’s something for everyone on race day. Be sure to check for live updates, road closures, and tips from local news outlets to make the most out of marathon weekend. Whether you’re running your first 13.1 miles or simply soaking in the excitement, the Brooklyn half marathon is an event that unites New Yorkers and attracts runners from around the world.