IMT Des Moines Marathon – Early Bird 2026 — Des Moines, IA

Date
October 18, 2026
Location
Des Moines, IA
Venue
400 Court Ave
Start Time
8:00 AM
Entry Fee
$0.00 – $200.00
Events
IMT Des Moines Marathon, IMT Des Moines Half Marathon, Bankers Trust Des Moines Marathon Relay, 10K Road Race, Local 5 5K, Free Kids Run presented by Des Moines Children's Museum
Includes
Athlete Swag Item | T-Shirt
View Registration

The IMT Des Moines Marathon is a running event held in Des Moines, Iowa, offering distances of 1 mile, 6.2 miles, a half marathon, and a full 26.2-mile marathon. The race takes place on October 18, 2026, starting at 8:00 AM from 400 Court Ave. Entry fees range from free to $200 depending on the distance selected and registration timing. The early-bird pricing structure rewards runners who register in advance, making it an accessible option for local athletes and visitors traveling to the area. With multiple distance options, the event accommodates various skill levels and training cycles, from casual 1-mile participants to marathon competitors.

From the Race Organizer
The IMT Des Moines Marathon advocates for individuals who actively participate in their health and wellness by engaging, coordinating, and providing community-related running events and initiatives. The IMT Des Moines Marathon has everything a major marathon has at a fraction of the price! Our new flat and fast course gives runners a great opportunity to finally get the Boston Qualifier or PR. High-end runner SWAG and medals elevate the weekend to the next level. Tons of spectator support throughout the route. These, along with many more features, is what makes the IMT Des Moines Marathon special. Since its inception in 2002, the IMT Des Moines Marathon has provided a positive image of Des Moines as a place to live, work, and play by offering race distances for athletes of all ages and abilities, including the IMT Des Moines Marathon & half marathon, Bankers Trust marathon relay, 5K and a FREE Kids Run. The IMT Des Moines Marathon has won several awards including the top marathon in the state, top 20 marathon's in the nation and many more! Come to Des Moines for a family friendly, affordable, and booming city. The new courses, debuting in 2024, are flat, fast, Boston Qualifier's, and spectator friendly.

Hotels Near This Race

Find accommodation close to the start line in Des Moines, IA. Sorted by distance from the race venue. Book early — race weekend hotels fill fast.

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IMT Des Moines Marathon – Early Bird 2026 — Des Moines, IA

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Race Travel Insurance

Don't forget travel insurance for October 18.

You've trained for months and booked a trip to Des Moines, IA. A pre-race injury, a delayed flight, or a family emergency can derail the whole thing. Travel insurance can help cover your race entry fee, hotel, and flights if you can't make it, and may cover medical costs if something goes wrong on the course. Plans typically only run 5-7% of your total trip cost — and running events are covered under standard plans with no additional coverage needed.

  • Trip cancellation up to 100% of prepaid costs
  • Running events covered under standard plans — no add-ons needed
  • Trip interruption up to 150% of non-refundable costs
  • Emergency medical up to $250,000
  • Cancel For Any Reason add-on available
  • 24/7 real-time support
Get a Quote — Faye Travel Insurance

Affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no cost to you. Coverage terms vary by state and plan. Review policy details before purchase.

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Frequently Asked Questions

When is IMT Des Moines Marathon – Early Bird 2026 — Des Moines, IA?

IMT Des Moines Marathon – Early Bird 2026 — Des Moines, IA takes place on October 18, 2026. The race is held in Des Moines, Iowa.

Where is IMT Des Moines Marathon – Early Bird 2026 — Des Moines, IA held?

IMT Des Moines Marathon – Early Bird 2026 — Des Moines, IA is held at 400 Court Ave in Des Moines, Iowa.

Where can I find hotels near IMT Des Moines Marathon – Early Bird 2026 — Des Moines, IA?

RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in Des Moines. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.