Des Moines St. Paddy's Marathon
Always double-check with the organizer's website! This page may contain affiliate links.
Des Moines St. Paddy's Marathon, Half Marathon & 5K
The Des Moines St. Paddy's event on March 14, 2026 in Des Moines, IA offers three distances: a full marathon, a half marathon, and a 5K. The start and finish area is located just west of the Iowa State Capitol. The courses are entirely paved, using streets or bike trails, and are described as flat and fast. Half marathon and marathon courses hold USATF certification.
Timing is chip based for all timed divisions. Course time limits are published for each distance. Water stations provide water on all courses and water plus sports drink on half marathon and marathon stations. Gear check is available on site.
Finish line goods include a 16 oz pint glass, a shamrock sugar cookie, and a complimentary beer for participants aged 21 and over. Finisher medals are awarded to all marathon and half marathon finishers; winner medals are given to the top three men and women overall and in each age group. Age categories run from 10 and under up to 70 plus.
Additional event details include packet mailing for a fee, local packet pick up options, commemorative event gear with a paid hoodie upgrade, live participant tracking options, pacers for marathon and half marathon, and a charity partnership with Best Buddies. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
