Candy Cane Course - Des Moines 2026

The race.

The Candy Cane Course takes place on December 20, 2026, in Altoona, Iowa, and features multiple race distances: 50 meters, 1 mile, 3.1 miles, 6.2 miles, 9.3 miles, and 7.4 miles, plus virtual and volunteer-then-run options. All distances except the 1-mile run are chip-timed with live results. Finisher amenities include a custom medal and designer shirt for 5K, 10K, and 15K participants; the 1-mile run is untimed but includes the same shirt and medal. The 50-meter kids' dash, for ages 10 and under, is untimed and includes a youth-sized shirt and custom medal, with free participation available for children who decline merchandise. Awards and finish-line refreshments are provided. Youth pricing applies to the 5K and 10K for ages 12 and under. Register by midnight the Thursday two weeks before race day to guarantee your shirt.