Women's Running Festival Half Marathon
Always double-check with the organizer's website! This page may contain affiliate links.
Event Details
The Women's Running Festival takes place on Saturday, October 17, 2026 in Carmel, Indiana. The event features several on-site races: a Half Marathon, a 10K, and a 5K called the "Inspiring Women 5K." A virtual option is also available for all three distances.
Course and Setting
The route is described as a beautiful run featuring fall colors, shade, parks, ponds, and trees. The event starts and finishes at Civic Square (3 Civic Square, Carmel, IN 46032).
Event Features
This is a women-only running event. The half marathon is noted as one of the ten largest female-only half marathons in the United States and is described as the largest women-only half marathon in Indiana. It awards a top-20 cash purse. Age group awards are given for the top three finishers in all distances.
A post-race party is held in Civic Square, offering free food, treats, and adult beverages. Free parking is available at the Expo and on race day. The area offers shopping and restaurants within walking distance.
Participation and Charities
The event supports two official charities: the Indiana Women In Need (IWIN) Foundation and the Twisted Pink Foundation. Participants can join or start fundraising teams. In 2025, runners from 34 different states attended the festival. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
