20 events in Des Moines, Iowa

From big races to Saturday morning group runs—find 5k events and connect with the local endurance sports community.

• Drake Road Races [runsignup.com]
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  Sat, Apr 18, 2026 at 7:30 AM

  Description

  5k 10k 13.1 Miles Run

  Des Moines, Iowa, 50311, United States
  OpenStreetMap Google Maps
• Des Moines Women's Half Marathon, 10K, 5K + Team Relay [desmoineswomenshalf.com] [Register at runsignup.com]
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  Sat, May 02, 2026 at 5:00 PM

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  The Des Moines Women’s Half Marathon (DSMWHM to our friends) isn’t your average running event. It’s like the hype session + living room dance party before a night out with friends but stretched over...

  The Des Moines Women’s Half Marathon (DSMWHM to our friends) isn’t your average running event. It’s like the hype session + living room dance party before a night out with friends but stretched over some of the most beautiful, and flat, miles in the midwest.

  This year’s event will again feature a Saturday evening 5K, followed by a Sunday morning Half Marathon, 10K, and Team Relay.

  Join us as we crush some miles, toast some wine, and party like it’s 1999.

  5k 6.2 Miles 10k 13.1 Miles Half Marathon Relay Run

  2201 George Flagg Pkwy, Des Moines, Iowa, 50321, United States
  OpenStreetMap Google Maps
• Iowa Hope Run [iowahoperun.org] [Register at runsignup.com]
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  Sat, May 09, 2026 at 8:30 AM

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  The Iowa Hope Run is a movement that brings together survivors, families, friends, and supporters from Iowa and beyond to raise awareness and funds for brain tumor research, advocacy, and patient...

  The Iowa Hope Run is a movement that brings together survivors, families, friends, and supporters from Iowa and beyond to raise awareness and funds for brain tumor research, advocacy, and patient support.

  This event has spent more than a decade building a strong, compassionate community rooted in Central Iowa. As we grow, our new name reflects what has always been true—hope knows no boundaries. While proudly Iowa-based, the Iowa Hope Run welcomes participants from anywhere who are united by a shared mission: supporting those affected by brain tumors and working toward a future without them.

  Participants of all ages and abilities are invited to join us at Water Works Park in Des Moines for a meaningful and inspiring day. Choose from multiple distances, including a 2K, 5K, or 10.1K, or participate virtually if you’re supporting from afar. Whether you’re running, walking, fundraising, or volunteering, every step makes an impact.

  Proceeds from the Iowa Hope Run benefit Dragon Master Initiative, National Brain Tumor Society, and Children’s Cancer Connection—three organizations doing critical work in brain tumor research, awareness, advocacy, and family support.

  This is more than a race—it’s a day of hope, remembrance, and community. We invite you to join us.

  2k 5k 10k Run Virtual Walk

  2201 George Flagg Pkwy, Des Moines, Iowa, 50321, United States
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• Mary's Meals' Race to Feed Kids [runsignup.com]
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  Sat, May 09, 2026 at 9:00 AM

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  Join us in-person or virtually at 9am CDT for the 13th annual Race to Feed Kids in support of Mary’s Meals, an international feeding charity that provides a daily meal to children in their place of...

  Join us in-person or virtually at 9am CDT for the 13th annual Race to Feed Kids in support of Mary’s Meals, an international feeding charity that provides a daily meal to children in their place of education. This isn’t just your average run/walk. Every single race registration will feed one child at Mcheza school in Malawi, Africa for an ENTIRE school year, helping to end hunger and change their story.

  Thank you for your generous support of Mary's Meals and the Race to Feed Kids in Des Moines, Iowa!

  *This race is coordinated by Heartland for Kids, 501(c)(3). "Feeding the world's youth with Mary's Meals."

  5k Kids Run Virtual Walk

  East Side Of Des Moines River, Des Moines, Iowa, 50309, United States
  OpenStreetMap Google Maps
• Stars Stripes Spirit 5K [starsstripesspirit.com] [Register at runsignup.com]
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  Sat, May 16, 2026 at 9:00 AM

  Description

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  Hey Iowa! Show your spirit for America and our men and women in uniform by participating in the Stars Stripes Spirit 5K Walk/Run. The event supports the veterans, youth and our communities of Iowa...

  Hey Iowa! Show your spirit for America and our men and women in uniform by participating in the Stars Stripes Spirit 5K Walk/Run. The event supports the veterans, youth and our communities of Iowa through the programs of the Iowa American Legion.

  Get your most patriotic costume to show off your patriotism or simply walk or run as you join others in celebrating the men and women who defend America.

  Enjoy food, drinks and music as we celebrate with the Stars Stripes Spirit 5K on Armed Forces Day - May 16, 2026.

  5k Run Walk

  Des Moines, Iowa, 50321, United States
  OpenStreetMap Google Maps
• Girls on the Run 5K Presented by EMC Insurance [gotrcentraliowa.org] [Register at runsignup.com]
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  Sun, May 17, 2026 at 2:00 PM

  Description

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  This registration is NOT for Girls on the Run Participants or Coaches. GOTR Participants and coaches are already registered for the event.

  Join us for the 5K – open to all! Whether you run or walk,...

  This registration is NOT for Girls on the Run Participants or Coaches. GOTR Participants and coaches are already registered for the event.

  Join us for the 5K – open to all! Whether you run or walk, you're welcome as a community runner. Your participation supports girls throughout central Iowa, helping them be joyful, healthy, and confident. Let's shine together with our Star Power!

  Each season comes to an end with a celebratory 5K. This closing event gives program participants of all abilities a tangible sense of accomplishment. Crossing the finish line instills confidence through completion and is a joyful moment program participants always remember!

  Anyone is welcome to participate in the end-of-season 5K celebration.

  Packet Pick-Up

  Friday, May 15 from 4-6 PM at Walnut Creek Y

  Sunday, May 17 starting at 12:30 PM at Principal Park

  Race start time is 2:00 PM

  3.1 Miles 5k Run Walk

  Des Moines, Iowa, 50309, United States
  OpenStreetMap Google Maps
• Hometown Half Marathon & 5k/10k - Des Moines [runsignup.com]
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  Sun, May 24, 2026 at 7:00 AM

  Description

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  Join us for the annual Hometown Half Marathon & 5k/10k! A run local-themed event that is perfect for the whole family.

  The fun includes -

  • Great Swag - designer shirt & custom medal

  • Chip-timing...

  Join us for the annual Hometown Half Marathon & 5k/10k! A run local-themed event that is perfect for the whole family.

  The fun includes -

  • Great Swag - designer shirt & custom medal

  • Chip-timing with live results and awards

  • Pacers for the half marathon

  • Free photos

  • Delicious Treats waiting at the finish line

  • Plenty of fun!

  Grab your friends and family, you are not going to want to miss this one!

  Can't make the race? No problem! We offer a virtual race option where you can run anywhere, at any time, and still earn the fun swag!

  *Youth-based pricing for the 5k/10k, 12 & Under are only $17!

  • Half Marathon Registration includes a custom bib, designer shirt, and an awesome finisher medal!

  • 10k registration includes a custom bib, designer shirt, and an awesome finisher medal!

  • 5k registration includes a custom bib, designer shirt, and an awesome finisher medal!

  • 1 Mile registration is untimed and includes a custom bib, designer shirt, and an awesome finisher medal!

  • The kid's dash is a fun, untimed dash for our kiddos ages 10 and under. Registration includes a mini bib, youth-sized shirt, and a specifically crafted medal for our kids' dash event! (If your child wants to run the kid's dash, and doesn't want the SWAG, they are welcome to run with us on race day for free!)

  *Register by midnight on Thursday, two Thursdays before race day, to guarantee your shirt!

  1 Miles 3.1 Miles 5k 6.2 Miles 10k 13.1 Miles Half Marathon Run Virtual

  Trestle Trail, Des Moines, Iowa, 50310, United States
  OpenStreetMap Google Maps
• The Big Run 5k [runsignup.com]
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  Wed, Jun 03, 2026 at 6:00 PM

  Description

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  Celebrate what makes running fun — high-fives, adrenaline and good friends. Come hang with Fleet Feet on Global Running Day and make The Big Run an epic party. Meet at SingleSpeed Brewing Co. for a...

  Celebrate what makes running fun — high-fives, adrenaline and good friends. Come hang with Fleet Feet on Global Running Day and make The Big Run an epic party. Meet at SingleSpeed Brewing Co. for a breezy 3.1 miles in your best "retro runner" getup to celebrate the thing that has brought us together through the generations-- running!

  Participants who register by 6/3 will receive a swag bag, including a free post-run drink! While Supplies Last

  Sign up now (endorphins included).

  5k Run

  303 Scott Ave, Des Moines, Iowa, 50309, United States
  OpenStreetMap Google Maps
• Capital City Pride Stride 5K [capitalcitypride.org] [Register at runsignup.com]
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  Sat, Jun 13, 2026 at 8:00 AM

  Description

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  Get ready to walk, jog, run and more with Capital City Pride at our annual Pride Stride! Join us for a vibrant and inclusive morning filled with love, unity, and community support.

  Date: Saturday,...

  Get ready to walk, jog, run and more with Capital City Pride at our annual Pride Stride! Join us for a vibrant and inclusive morning filled with love, unity, and community support.

  Date: Saturday, June 13th

  Time: 8:00 A.M.

  Come kick off the second day of PrideFest with us! Pride Stride is more than just a race; it's a celebration of diversity and acceptance. Whether you're a seasoned runner, a casual walker, or somewhere in between, everyone is welcome to participate and show their support for the LGBTQ+ community.

  Packet Pick Up Information:

  Thursday, June 11th - 4:00 PM - 6:30 PM : Single Speed Brewing Location: 303 Scott Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309

  Saturday, June 13th - 6:45 AM - 7:40 AM : East 6th and Locust (Near Mainstage of Pride Festival

  5k Run Walk

  Des Moines, Iowa, 50309, United States
  OpenStreetMap Google Maps
• Run, Walk, and Roll: Women of the ELCA 5K for Raising up Healthy Women and Girls [community.elca.org] [Register at runsignup.com]
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  Sat, Jul 18, 2026 at 7:00 AM

  Description

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  Run, Walk, and Roll: Women of the ELCA 5K for Raising up Healthy Women and Girls

  The Women of the ELCA Triennial Gathering takes place every three years and gathers 1000 women leaders, participants,...

  Run, Walk, and Roll: Women of the ELCA 5K for Raising up Healthy Women and Girls

  The Women of the ELCA Triennial Gathering takes place every three years and gathers 1000 women leaders, participants, and newcomers for four days of worship, inspiring speakers, workshops, service projects, and more! The theme for the 2026 Triennial Gathering is "I am Worthy" focusing on Psalm 139:14 “I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” Psalm 139:14

  The 5K Run, Walk and Roll is a fundraiser to support the work of the Women of the ELCA health initiative, Raising Up Healthy Women and Girls.

  EVERYONE is welcome to register and participate!

  5k Run Walk

  Principal River Walk, Des Moines, Iowa, 50309, United States
  OpenStreetMap Google Maps
• Heatwave Half Marathon - Des Moines [runsignup.com]
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  Sun, Jul 26, 2026 at 7:00 AM

  Description

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  Join us for the Heatwave Half Marathon, 10K, & 5K!

  A sun-soaked summer challenge that’s perfect for the whole family.

  The fun includes –

  • Great Swag – designer shirt & custom medal

  • Chip-timing...

  Join us for the Heatwave Half Marathon, 10K, & 5K!

  A sun-soaked summer challenge that’s perfect for the whole family.

  The fun includes –

  • Great Swag – designer shirt & custom medal

  • Chip-timing with live results and awards

  • Free photos

  • FREE ice cream at the finish to help you cool off

  • Plenty of hot fun in the summer sun!

  Grab your friends and family—you won’t want to miss this one!

  Can’t make the race? No problem! We offer a virtual race option where you can run anywhere, at any time, and still earn the fun swag!

  Youth-based pricing is available: ages 12 & under are only $17!

  Half Marathon/10K/5K registration includes a custom bib, designer shirt, and an awesome finisher medal!

  1 Mile registration is untimed and includes a custom bib, designer shirt, and an awesome finisher medal!

  Kid’s Dash is a fun, untimed dash for ages 10 and under. Registration includes a mini bib, youth-sized shirt, and a specially crafted medal for our youngest runners! (If your child wants to run the kid’s dash without swag, they’re welcome to run free on race day!)

  Register by midnight on Thursday, two Thursdays before race day, to guarantee your shirt!

  1 Miles 5k 10k 13.1 Miles Half Marathon Run Virtual

  Trestle Trail, Des Moines, Iowa, 50310, United States
  OpenStreetMap Google Maps
• WWY 5K (no one walks alone) [walkwithyounonprofit.org] [Register at runsignup.com]
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  Sat, Sep 19, 2026 at 9:00 AM

  Description

  WWY 5K (no one walks alone) is a family-friendly event complete with a 5K Walk/Run, a Kid's 1/2 mile run, coffee, food, face painting, and more! This event is hosted by Walk With You, a nonprofit organization that exists to walk with families as they experience the loss of a child. All money raised will be used to further our mission.

  5k Run Walk

  2201 George Flagg Pkwy, Des Moines, Iowa, 50321, United States
  OpenStreetMap Google Maps
• Blue Believers [runsignup.com]
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  Sun, Sep 20, 2026 at 8:45 AM

  Description

  Prostate Cancer Awareness of Central Iowa is proud to present its fourth run/walk event. 100% of all proceeds stay right here in Iowa to help Iowans affected by prostate cancer. Since our inaugural event, we have donated back nearly $270,000 to the Iowa prostate cancer community. With your help, we can help even more Iowa men and their families. Thank you for being part of Team Blue Iowa!

  1 Miles 3.1 Miles 5k Run Walk

  1 Line Drive, Des Moines, Iowa, 50309, United States
  OpenStreetMap Google Maps
• Midwest Greater Des Moines Half Marathon, 10K & 5K [runhyvee.com] [Register at runsignup.com]
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  Sun, Sep 27, 2026 at 7:30 AM

  Description

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  On Sunday September 27, 2026, the city of Des Moines will host the Midwest Greater DSM Half Marathon Series (formerly the HyVee Half Marathon) again with a co-ed format. Each event will offer a Half...

  On Sunday September 27, 2026, the city of Des Moines will host the Midwest Greater DSM Half Marathon Series (formerly the HyVee Half Marathon) again with a co-ed format. Each event will offer a Half Marathon, 10K, 5K and our popular Kids One Mile Fun Run for our youngest competitors. Starting and finishing just steps from the Polk County Courthouse on Court Avenue in the heart of downtown Des Moines, Iowa!

  Returning for 2026: Each Half Marathon, 10K, 5K event produced by Premier Event Management will again offer an exciting youth event in each market. The Kids One Mile Fun Run will start and finish from our main finish line structure making the Kids event something extra special on race morning. Children from ages 5 to 15 are encouraged to join mom and/or dad on race morning to begin a lifelong lifestyle change at Kids One Mile Fun Run!

  1 Miles 3.1 Miles 5k 6.2 Miles 10k 13.1 Miles Fun Run Half Marathon Run

  420 Court Ave, Des Moines, Iowa, 50309, United States
  OpenStreetMap Google Maps
• Golden Harvest Half Marathon & 5k/10k - Des Moines [runsignup.com]
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  Sun, Sep 27, 2026 at 8:00 AM

  Description

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  Join us for the annual Hometown Half Marathon & 5k/10k! A run local-themed event that is perfect for the whole family.

  The fun includes -

  • Great Swag - designer shirt & custom medal

  • Chip-timing...

  Join us for the annual Hometown Half Marathon & 5k/10k! A run local-themed event that is perfect for the whole family.

  The fun includes -

  • Great Swag - designer shirt & custom medal

  • Chip-timing with live results and awards

  • Pacers for the half marathon

  • Free photos

  • Delicious Treats waiting at the finish line

  • Plenty of fun!

  *Youth-based pricing for the 5k/10k, 12 & Under are only $17!

  • Half Marathon Registration includes a custom bib, designer shirt, and an awesome finisher medal!

  • 10k registration includes a custom bib, designer shirt, and an awesome finisher medal!

  • 5k registration includes a custom bib, designer shirt, and an awesome finisher medal!

  • 1 Mile registration is untimed and includes a custom bib, designer shirt, and an awesome finisher medal!

  • The kid's dash is a fun, untimed dash for our kiddos ages 10 and under. Registration includes a mini bib, youth-sized shirt, and a specifically crafted medal for our kids' dash event! (If your child wants to run the kid's dash, and doesn't want the SWAG, they are welcome to run with us on race day for free!)

  *Register by midnight on Thursday, two Thursdays before race day, to guarantee your shirt!

  1 Miles 3.1 Miles 5k 6.2 Miles 10k 13.1 Miles Half Marathon Run

  Trestle Trail, Des Moines, Iowa, 50310, United States
  OpenStreetMap Google Maps
• The Blazing 5k [runsignup.com]
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  Sun, Oct 04, 2026 at 8:00 AM

  Description

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  Welcome to the fastest 5k in the Midwest!

  Event doubles as the USATF Iowa Road 5k State Championship.

  NEW in 2026, Team Competitions! See information below.

  2025 RESULTS

  2026 marks the 7th annual...

  Welcome to the fastest 5k in the Midwest!

  Event doubles as the USATF Iowa Road 5k State Championship.

  NEW in 2026, Team Competitions! See information below.

  2025 RESULTS

  2026 marks the 7th annual Blazing 5k. The last 6 years have welcomed elites and runners of all types. The 5k course starts on the back loop in Water Works Park and shoots out the gun going clockwise on the flat and fast loop. At the end of the loop the racers are greeted by a prize for the first person to cross the mat. From there it's another flat and fast main loop going clockwise. This area offers plenty of space for spectators and the field can be seen for almost the entirety of this loop. It finishes on the screaming fast and long straightaway to the finish.

  USATF Certified Course: IA21006MF

  The 7th edition of the event date is now taking place on October 4th, 2025.

  Prizes:

  2026 Prize Structure: See Below

  Overall 1st M/F : $300 + Shoes

  Overall 2nd M/F: $200 + Shoes

  Overall 3rd M/F: $100 + Shoes

  Overall 4th M/F: $75

  Overall 5th M/F: $50

  Beyond Recovery Halfway Premium: $100 + Shoes

  5k Course Record Bonus: $100

  • Male: Edwin Kurgat - 13:47 (2022)

  • Female: Kassie Parker -15:46 (2024)

  5k All-Comers Record Bonus: $TBD

  • Male: Frank Omara - 13:37 (1992)

  • Female: Shelly Steely - 15:30 (1992)

  2025 Total Planned Purse: $3150 + Shoes (x8 pairs)

  2024 Total Purse: $3350 + Shoes (8xpairs)

  2023 Total Purse: $3540 + 8 pairs of free shoes + Coeur Gear (Women's Winner)

  2022 5k Prize Purse: $2100 +shoes

  2021 Blazing 5k Prize Purse: $1750 + shoes

  2021 10k Invite Prize Purse: $2250 + shoes + gear

  2020 Prize Purse: $600 + shoes + gift cards

  Elites:

  • Male cutoff 16:30

  • Male Free Entry 14:45 or faster

  • Free Entry Sign Up Opens 4/14/2026

  • Female cutoff 20:00

  • Female Free Entry 19:00 or faster

  • Free Entry Sign Up Opens 4/14/2026

  • Feel free to reach out to Tyson Wieland @ Tysonw123@live.com

  5k Run

  2201 George Flagg Pkwy, Des Moines, Iowa, 50321, United States
  OpenStreetMap Google Maps
• To Grandmother's House We Go [runsignup.com]
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  Sat, Oct 24, 2026 at 9:00 AM

  Description

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  2026 date is not finalized, but the current planned date is listed.

  2025 RESULTS

  2025 Race Photos

  This is a fall race that runs on both single and double track dirt. Participants have 5K/10K/15K...

  2026 date is not finalized, but the current planned date is listed.

  2025 RESULTS

  2025 Race Photos

  This is a fall race that runs on both single and double track dirt. Participants have 5K/10K/15K options on a trail loop that takes you deep into the woods.

  • Races will begin promptly at 9:00 AM

  • Walkers may participate and are encouraged to register for one of the shorter races.

  • The course will remain open for 3 hours.

  • Proceeds from this race will be used to support Des Moines' dirt trail systems, the Stewards of Browns Woods, and the Capital Striders

  • Click here to view the map of Brown's Woods (in PDF format). TGHWG will be completed on the outermost trail loop, which totals a 5K distance; 10K participants will be doing 2 loops, 15K participants will be doing 3 loops.

  • While we love dogs, sadly our insurance does not permit them on the course during the event.

  • Packet Pickup will be Friday October 23rd from 4:00-6:00PM

  Registration

  5k 10k 15k Run Trail Walk

  195 SE Brown'S Woods Ct., Des Moines, Iowa, 50265, United States
  OpenStreetMap Google Maps

Local Clubs & Organizations