Events in Iowa City, Iowa | 2026-2027

City Park parkrun, Iowa [parkrun.us]

Every Saturday at 9:00 AM

Description

parkrun is such a simple concept: turn up every Saturday and volunteer, walk, jog or run 5k.

5k parkrun Run Walk

City Park, 200 Park Rd, Iowa City, Iowa, 52242, United States
OpenStreetMap Google Maps

Relay For Life of U'Iowa Ribbon Run 5K [instagram.com] [Register at runsignup.com]

Sat, Apr 25, 2026 at 9:00 AM

Description

The American Cancer Society has a goal to end cancer as we know it, for everyone. Relay For Life has been hosted by the American Cancer Society at University of Iowa (ACS at U'Iowa) student...

The American Cancer Society has a goal to end cancer as we know it, for everyone. Relay For Life has been hosted by the American Cancer Society at University of Iowa (ACS at U'Iowa) student organization for more than a decade. Relay For Life has evolved in Iowa City adding friendly competition with the "Ribbon Run 5K" in 2023.

At this year’s Relay for Life Ribbon Run 5K, we come together not only to celebrate strength and survivorship, but to honor every person affected by cancer. Each step we take and dollar we raise, helps fund lifesaving research, patient support, and hope for families in our community, to ensure everyone the opportunity to fight for life. By dressing up in your ribbon color; gold for childhood cancer, pink for breast cancer, lavender for all cancer types... you shine a light on the stories behind each cancer journey, reminding us that this fight is personal, powerful, and shared. Today, we run, walk, and stand together to make a difference and move closer to a future free from cancer.

The Ribbon Run 5K is a timed 3.1-mile race that takes participants on a scenic route through Iowa City, beginning and ending in Hubbard Park. Whether you’re running or walking, all racers will start together at 9:00 AM. In-person check-in opens at 8:30 AM on April 25th at Hubbard Park, where participants will complete a waiver and photo release form—unless you registered online through RunSignUp, in which case these forms were already signed. Along the course, water stations and volunteers will be present to support, guide, and cheer you on. Please note that due to current construction, this year’s race will double-back, just make sure to follow the directional signs and markers to stay on the correct route.

Follow us on Instagram @ACS.Uiowa for up-to-date event information!

This event is a fundraiser for the American Cancer Society. All proceeds benefit cancer research grants, lodging services for cancer patients like the Russel and Ann Gerdin Hope Lodge in Iowa City, patient programs across the country, and more. To read more about ACS, visit cancer.org.

3.1 Miles 5k Relay Run Walk

125 N Madison St, Iowa City, Iowa, 52245, United States
OpenStreetMap Google Maps

Doc Dash [uidocdash.com]

Sat, May 02, 2026 at 9:00 AM

Description

DOC DASH 5K

Doc Dash is an annual 5K race that has been a tradition of the Carver College of Medicine since 1989. The event welcomes not only seasoned runners but also joggers, walkers, and young...

DOC DASH 5K

Doc Dash is an annual 5K race that has been a tradition of the Carver College of Medicine since 1989. The event welcomes not only seasoned runners but also joggers, walkers, and young children. Recently, we have begun partnering with physical therapy students to support adaptive participants who may use equipment or require assistance to complete the course. Beginning at the medical campus, participants travel the course through nearby neighborhoods and the river trail before looping back to the finish line. Prior to the main event, a shorter event for young children (dubbed ‘Docling Dash’) takes place in the courtyard of the Medical Education and Research Facility (MERF).

Proceeds are donated to the Iowa City Free Medical and Dental Clinic and the University of Iowa Mobile Clinic. These Iowa City organizations provide services to underserved populations that are uninsured or under-insured. These clinics draw many of their volunteers from the College of Medicine and students of other healthcare disciplines, including the Colleges of Physical Therapy and Pharmacy, to aid in the training of future healthcare professionals. Your participation and support benefit not only Iowa City but the future of healthcare in the state of Iowa and beyond.

5k Run

375 Newton Road, Iowa City, Iowa, 52242, United States
OpenStreetMap Google Maps

Red Shoe Run & Walk 5K [rmhc-eiwi.org] [Register at runsignup.com]

Sun, May 03, 2026 at 10:00 AM

Description

Ronald McDonald House Charities of Eastern Iowa & Western Illinois proudly presents the 42nd Annual Red Shoe Run & Walk 5K!

This annual event raises critical funds and awareness to support our...

Ronald McDonald House Charities of Eastern Iowa & Western Illinois proudly presents the 42nd Annual Red Shoe Run & Walk 5K!

This annual event raises critical funds and awareness to support our mission of keeping families close to each other—and close to the care they need—when they need it the most.

Participants can run, walk, or join virtually, making this a truly family-friendly event open to all ages and ability levels. Strollers and leashed pets are welcome. Race begins and ends at Lower City Park in Iowa City. On-site festivities include pre-race snacks, a kids zone, and awards for top runners across multiple age groups. After the race, stick around and enjoy a FREE lunch on us!

T-Shirt Info:

Register by April 1 to guarantee your official Red Shoe Run T-shirt. Registrations after April 1 will receive shirts on a first-come, first-served basis at packet pickup and on race day.

🚨 NEW for 2026: An updated race route (still starting and ending at Lower City Park) is coming soon—stay tuned!

5k Run Virtual Walk

200 Park Road, Iowa City, Iowa, 52246, United States
OpenStreetMap Google Maps

Run for the Schools [runsignup.com]

Sun, Oct 18, 2026 at 8:00 AM

Description

Iowa City Road Races, Inc. is a non-profit group of volunteers committed to provide a means for fund raising in the community while promoting health and fitness through running at all skill levels.

Run for the Schools directly benefits students from the Iowa City Community School District and Regina Catholic Education Center.

1 Miles 5k 10k Run

220 S Gilbert St, Iowa City, Iowa, 52240, United States
OpenStreetMap Google Maps

Live Your Best Life 5k [sui.org] [Register at runsignup.com]

Sat, Nov 07, 2026 at 10:00 AM

Description

Join us for the Live Your Best Life Sensory Walk & 5K, an inclusive charity run and walk in Iowa City designed for participants of all abilities. Whether you're a seasoned runner chasing a new PR, a...

Join us for the Live Your Best Life Sensory Walk & 5K, an inclusive charity run and walk in Iowa City designed for participants of all abilities. Whether you're a seasoned runner chasing a new PR, a casual walker enjoying the morning with friends, or a family looking for a fun community event, this is for you.

Hosted by Systems Unlimited, this event supports people living with disabilities and mental health needs across Eastern Iowa. For 55 years, Systems Unlimited has worked to remove barriers and create opportunities so the people we serve can live healthy, active, and fulfilling lives.

1 Miles 3.1 Miles 5k Run Walk

Iowa City, Iowa, 52240, United States
OpenStreetMap Google Maps

Hawkeye Turkey Trot [runsignup.com]

Thu, Nov 26, 2026 at 9:00 AM

Description

Thanksgiving Day is all about family, food, fun, football... and 5Ks! Come out to City Park for the first Hawkeye Turkey Trot, the only Thanksgiving Day 5K in Iowa City! Start your Thanksgiving off...

Thanksgiving Day is all about family, food, fun, football... and 5Ks! Come out to City Park for the first Hawkeye Turkey Trot, the only Thanksgiving Day 5K in Iowa City! Start your Thanksgiving off right with a fun 5K for the whole family before you indulge in a delicious Turkey Day meal!

The Herky Turkey Tot Trot race will begin after the conclusion of the 5K around the Iowa River Corridor Trail near Shelter #6 at City Park!

A portion of proceeds from the race will be given to the Food Bank of Iowa. Please also bring non-perishable food items to be donated on race day!

5k Run Trail

Iowa City, Iowa, 52246, United States
OpenStreetMap Google Maps

7 running and walking events in Iowa City, Iowa

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Local Clubs & Organizations