Palm Desert Half Marathon, 10K & 5K

Palm Desert Half Marathon, 10K & 5K gives runners a flat, fast Valentine’s Day race morning anchored at Palm Desert Civic Center Park. The half marathon starts at 07:00, followed by the 10K at 07:45, the 5K at 08:30, and a 1K kids run at 10:30, all starting and finishing at the park.

Why go

• Choose your distance: The program includes a half marathon, 10K, 5K, and 1K kids run.
• Fast, flat course: The event is described as flat and fast, a useful combination for goal-focused runners.
• February morning: Desert mornings in February are close to ideal running weather.

What to expect

This is a clearly paced race morning, with the longest distance leaving first and each shorter event following in sequence. Palm Desert Civic Center Park serves as both the starting and finishing point, so runners and supporters have one central place to orient themselves as the program unfolds. The format works for a mixed group: one person can take on the half, another can choose the 10K or 5K, and the 1K gives kids a defined event of their own. Expect an early start, open desert-morning light, and a practical race-day atmosphere focused on getting people through their chosen distance.

Know before you go

• Packet pickup takes place the Saturday before the race, so plan to collect your materials in advance.
• The half marathon begins at 07:00; the 10K, 5K, and kids run follow at stated intervals.
• Arrive ready for an early outdoor start and bring layers for the morning temperature.