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Des Moines Running Groups Build Community Through Weekly Runs and Recent Races

Local clubs keep participants connected with regular gatherings at neighborhood spots and events like the 5k Beer Run just days ago.

By Des Moines Sport Desk · Published July 24, 2026

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The 5k Beer Run x Confluence Brewing drew runners through Des Moines on Sunday, July 12, at 11:00 AM as part of the 2026 IA Brewery Running Series. That event sat just three days before today and followed the Treat Trot Des Moines, which started at 7:00 AM on June 28 at Riverview Park.

These races fit into a pattern of ongoing activity that keeps local clubs active year-round. Runners meet regularly without needing major announcements, and the schedule shows steady participation across different formats and times.

Weekly group runs anchor participation

Clubs host standing sessions that let members train together and socialize. One meets Thursday evenings at 7:00 PM at Brightside Aleworks. Another gathers Saturday mornings at 7:30 AM at Mars Cafe. The Night Run DSM adds evening options downtown, with starts at 7:00 PM CDT and finish windows stretching to 9:15 PM for its 5K, 10K and Night Mile distances.

These repeated meetups create regular contact points. Participants know the locations and times in advance, which lowers barriers for new runners and keeps veterans returning.

Upcoming races extend the calendar

Farther out, the 2026 IMT Des Moines Marathon is set for October 18. Earlier this year the Midwest Greater Des Moines Half Marathon, 10K and 5K took place on September 21, 2025. The sequence of past and planned races gives clubs clear targets to train toward.

Interested runners can locate the next Thursday session at Brightside Aleworks or the Saturday start at Mars Cafe through local listings. The October marathon date provides a longer-term focus for those building mileage over the coming months.

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