Clover Dash 5k 2026 — Des Moines, IA

Date
July 19, 2026
Location
Des Moines, IA
Venue
4-H Exhibits Building, Iowa State Fair Grounds
Start Time
8:30 AM
Entry Fee
$20.00 – $30.00
Events
5k Run for 13+, 5K Run for 12 and under
Includes
T-Shirt
Register NowRegistration Open

Registration for the Clover Dash 5K costs between $20 and $30. The event takes place on July 19, 2026, at the 4-H Exhibits Building on the Iowa State Fair Grounds in Des Moines. The actual race distance is 1 mile, with a typical start time of 8:30 AM. If you can't make it to Des Moines for race day, a virtual participation option is available, allowing you to complete the distance on your own schedule and location. This makes it accessible whether you're traveling to the fairgrounds or prefer a flexible alternative.

From the Race Organizer
The Polk County 4-H Clover Dash 5k was created in memory of former Polk 4-H County Youth Coordinator, Joy Niklasen, who tragically passed away in a car accident in September of 2014. Joy is best remembered for her energy and enthusiasm in doing so much to help 4-H’ers. She represented the Extension Office on the Polk County 4-H Advisory Board, planned different workshops, and helped coordinate the 4-H Annual County Awards Ceremony. Honoring Joy’s passion for healthy living, an annual 5k began in the Summer of 2015 thanks to the idea of 4-H’er, Rebecca Osthus, and efforts by sponsors, volunteers, staff, and 4-H’ers. In memory of Joy, all proceeds raised during the 5k go directly to Polk County 4-H’ers in the form of scholarships and grants. Each year the 5k is planned and organized by a committee of County Council youth with the assistance of Polk County 4-H staff. If you are interested in supporting the 5k through volunteering, running, donating, or sponsoring visit our website or contact Megan Freel at meganmae@iastate.edu or 515-957-5763.

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.

RaceHotelFinder earns a small commission when you book through links on this page, at no extra cost to you. Results are sorted by distance from the race venue.

Clover Dash 5k 2026 — Des Moines, IA

Race day is approaching. Hotels fill up fast.

--Days
:
--Hours
:
--Mins
:
--Secs
Book a hotel for race weekend

Race weekend dates pre-loaded on Booking.com. RaceHotelFinder may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Race Travel Insurance

Don't forget travel insurance for July 19.

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.

More Races

Browse all upcoming races in Iowa →

Other upcoming races in Iowa

2026 Crush Cancer Glow Walk/Run 2026 — Creston, IACreston, IAAug 1, 2026From $$25.00
Find Hotels →
Moorehead Park Trail Mazathon 2026 — Ida Grove, IAIda Grove, IAAug 1, 2026From $$40.00
Find Hotels →
ShamRock N Run 2026 — Waterloo, IAWaterloo, IAAug 1, 2026From $$35.00
Find Hotels →
Trail of the Dragon 50K/50mile Run 2026 — Ida Grove, IAIda Grove, IAAug 1, 2026From $$70.00
Find Hotels →

Frequently Asked Questions

When is Clover Dash 5k 2026 — Des Moines, IA?

Clover Dash 5k 2026 — Des Moines, IA takes place on July 19, 2026. The race is held in Des Moines, Iowa.

Where is Clover Dash 5k 2026 — Des Moines, IA held?

Clover Dash 5k 2026 — Des Moines, IA is held at 4-H Exhibits Building, Iowa State Fair Grounds in Des Moines, Iowa.

Where can I find hotels near Clover Dash 5k 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.