Expected April 2028
Distance
Start Time
Terrain
The Grand Blue Mile takes over the streets of Downtown Des Moines for an evening of one-mile racing based at Western Gateway Park. Runners set off at 6:00 PM on a flat, paved city-centre course, with youth races and a children's sprint staged alongside the main mile. Launched in 2010 by Wellmark Blue Cross and the Drake Relays, the event has welcomed more than 50,000 participants and is open to competitive athletes, casual joggers and families. Divisions are split by age and by competitive or recreational intent, so runners of every level and pace find a wave that fits.
One-mile course through Downtown Des Moines
Start and finish area at Western Gateway Park
Evening race under city lights
Flat, fast city streets
Start / Finish
Western Gateway Park, 1205 Locust St, Des Moines, IA 50309, USA
Western Gateway Park area, Downtown Des Moines
Terrain
Route
Race Day
What you get
On the day
Before you enter
Other questions
It is a one-mile road race held on the streets of Downtown Des Moines. The event was launched in 2010 by Wellmark Blue Cross and the Drake Relays and has since welcomed more than 50,000 participants from around the world.
The mile is offered in both a competitive division and a recreational division, each further split by age group. The competitive division suits runners chasing a fast time, while the recreational division is aimed at those running for fun, fitness or a personal milestone.
No. The event is designed for all ages and skill levels, from competitive runners to casual joggers and first-time racers. There is a pace and a division for everyone.
Yes. A one-mile city-centre course creates plenty of spots to watch from, and Western Gateway Park itself is the natural gathering point for spectators, friends and family.
Entry fee
Registration isn't open yet. We'll show pricing when the organiser confirms.Des Moines, USA
Expected April 2028
Provisional date, around Apr 18More races like this one
Not open yet
