If you are looking for races in Des Moines, Iowa, you have come to the right place. Des Moines has a growing running scene with 42 races listed in our directory, including 11 upcoming events in 2026. Whether you are lacing up for your first 5K or chasing a new personal record, there is something here for every runner.
Upcoming Races in Des Moines, Iowa
Here is a look at the top upcoming races in Des Moines this year. We update our listings weekly so you always have the most current information.
Medal Madness 5K, 10K, & 13.1M at Des Moines, IA (37)
Date: September 12, 2026
Distance: 10K
Join us in Des Moines for an awesome trio of distances5K, 10K, and half marathonwhere you’ll experience a laid-back yet well-organized race day perfect for runners and walkers of all levels. Read full details →
Capital Pursuit 10-Mile & 4 Mile
Date: September 13, 2026
Get ready to explore the scenic beauty around Easter Lake in Southeast Des Moines on what’s become one of the city’s most beloved running traditions! Read full details →
WWY 5K (no one walks alone)
Date: September 19, 2026
Distance: 5K
Join us in Des Moines for a fun-filled morning that brings the whole family togetherfeaturing a 5K walk or run, a half-mile kids’ race, plus coffee, food, face painting, and lots more! Read full details →
Blue Believers
Date: September 20, 2026
Get ready to make a real difference in your community! This fourth annual gathering brings together runners and walkers in Des Moines to support Iowans battling prostate cancer, with every dollar raised staying right at home to help local men and families. Read full details →
Run to Exile
Date: September 26, 2026
Get ready for the ultimate comeback celebration in Des Moinesthis high-energy race is back and better than ever with pumping music, enthusiastic crowds, and cold beers waiting at the finish line. Read full details →
Midwest Greater Des Moines Half Marathon, 10K & 5K
Date: September 27, 2026
Distance: 10K
Join us for a fantastic running experience in Des Moines, IA with options for everyonewhether you’re training for a half marathon, 10K, or 5K! Read full details →
Golden Harvest Half Marathon & 5k/10k – Des Moines
Date: September 27, 2026
Distance: 10K
Get ready to celebrate community running at this family-friendly Des Moines event featuring half marathon, 10k, 5k, and 1-mile optionsplus a kids’ dash! Read full details →
The Blazing 5k
Date: October 4, 2026
Distance: 5K
Get ready to fly through Des Moines on a lightning-fast course that’s become a Midwest favorite! This year marks the 7th running of the event, which serves as Iowa’s official USATF Road 5k State Championship, and it’s adding exciting team competitions for 2026. Read full details →
Why Run in Des Moines?
Running events in Des Moines offer a mix of community fun runs, charity 5Ks, and competitive road races throughout the year. The local running community is active and welcoming to runners of all levels — from first-timers to seasoned racers. Many of these events benefit local charities and organizations, making race day about more than just your finish time.
Find More Races in Iowa
Des Moines is just one part of a thriving Iowa running scene. If you want to explore more events across the state, check out our full race listings for Iowa — we track every upcoming running event from 1 mile fun runs to full marathons.
Get Ready to Race
Found a race you want to run? The next step is making sure you are properly trained for it. Whether you are a first-timer aiming to finish or a veteran chasing a PR, having the right training plan makes all the difference.
Take our free 3-question training plan quiz and get matched to the right plan for your fitness level in under a minute. We will send it straight to your inbox so you can start training today.
Good luck out there — see you at the finish line in Des Moines!
