Candy Cane Course – Des Moines 2026 — Altoona, IA

Date
December 20, 2026
Location
Altoona, IA
Venue
Altoona Aquatics Park
Start Time
9:00 AM
Entry Fee
$22.00 – $50.00
Events
Kids Dash, 1 Mile, 5K, 10K, 15K, Volunteer then Run
Includes
Sweatshirt
Register NowRegistration Open

Candy Cane Course at Altoona Aquatics Park in Altoona, Iowa, offers multiple running distances on December 20, 2026. Participants can choose from a 1-mile option, 50 meters, 6.2 miles, or 9.3 miles, making it accessible for various fitness levels and goals. The race starts at 9:00 AM with entry fees ranging from $22 to $50 depending on distance and registration timing. If travel plans fall through or weather becomes problematic, a virtual participation option is available, allowing you to complete your chosen distance on your own course. This flexibility makes it easier to commit to the race regardless of circumstances. Consider lodging in the Altoona area to minimize early-morning travel before the start.

From the Race Organizer
Join us for the annual Candy Cane Course 5k/10k/15k! A fun, Christmas-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 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 $22! 5k/10k/15k 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!

Hotels Near This Race

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

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Candy Cane Course – Des Moines 2026 — Altoona, IA

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Race Travel Insurance

Don't forget travel insurance for December 20.

You've trained for months and booked a trip to Altoona, 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 Candy Cane Course – Des Moines 2026 — Altoona, IA?

Candy Cane Course – Des Moines 2026 — Altoona, IA takes place on December 20, 2026. The race is held in Altoona, Iowa.

Where is Candy Cane Course – Des Moines 2026 — Altoona, IA held?

Candy Cane Course – Des Moines 2026 — Altoona, IA is held at Altoona Aquatics Park in Altoona, Iowa.

Where can I find hotels near Candy Cane Course – Des Moines 2026 — Altoona, IA?

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