Monster Dash 5K & Lil' Monsters Fun Run
Monster Dash 5K & Lil' Monsters Fun Run is a running race on October 24, 2026 in West Des Moines, IA, with entry fees from $12 to $30.
- Date
- October 24, 2026 (55 days to go)
- Price
- $12–$30
- Sport
- Running
From the Organizer
The Monster Dash 5K is coming to Des Moines, and we’re bringing it to the spooky trails of Raccoon River Park for a Halloween-themed race you won’t want to miss.
Whether you’re running with friends, walking the course, or just looking for an excuse to break out your best Halloween costume, the Monster Dash is ready to bring some fun to race day.
The 5K features a pre-race costume contest, chip timing, free event photos, big finisher medals, awesome Halloween-themed shirts, and more! There will also be a Lil’ Monsters Kids Run for ages 10 and under, plus costume awards for those who really want to embrace the Halloween spirit.
So start planning your costume, grab your running crew, and get ready to hit the course at Raccoon River Park!
Events
Weather
Typical Conditions
It's too far out for a forecast, so here's what weather on this date is normally like in the area. A race day forecast will replace this as race week approaches.
Typical High
59°
Typical Low
40°
Chance of Rain
27%
Based on US Climate Normals data from Des Moines Intl Ap, 6 mi from the venue.
Host City
About West Des Moines, IA
Population
69,893
as of 2023
City Elevation
904 ft
Nearest Airport
DSM
Des Moines International Airport · 7 mi
Time Zone
Central Time
From Endurance Grid
A mid-size host city. Enough lodging and amenities to keep race weekend easy, without big-city sprawl.
Race Location
Your Next Start Line
What Are You
Waiting For?
Every finish line starts with a single decision. Claim your spot at Monster Dash 5K & Lil' Monsters Fun Run, put it on the calendar, and turn “someday” into a start date.
55
Days to train
- Race
- Monster Dash 5K & Lil' Monsters Fun Run
- Date
- October 24, 2026
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From Endurance Grid
About This Sport
Endurance Grid is here to help you understand the sport, decide if it’s the right fit, and learn how to prepare. For course distances, logistics, and race-day specifics, always defer to the race organizer’s event page.
With running, there's a distance for every fitness level, a community at every start line, and nothing beats the feeling of crossing a finish line you trained for.
Running is an endurance sport that rewards consistency, and showing up every week compounds in ways that will surprise you.
Running
From 5K to marathon, running races are an accessible entry point into endurance sport. There's a distance for every fitness level and a community at every start line.
Coming Up
More Running races near West Des Moines, IA
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17th Annual Iowa Remembrance Run
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The Des Moines Turkey Trot
5K · From $15 · 208 Court Ave
3 miles away
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Monster Dash 5K & Lil' Monsters Fun Run?
When and where is the Monster Dash 5K & Lil' Monsters Fun Run?
How do I register for the Monster Dash 5K & Lil' Monsters Fun Run?
Monster Dash 5K & Lil' Monsters Fun Run
Oct 24, 2026