FAQ

When is the Palm Desert ½ Marathon & 5K?

The 2025 Palm Desert ½ Marathon & 5k will take place on February 16.

What time does the race start?

• 7:00AM – ½ Marathon
• 7:30AM – 5k
• 10:00AM – Kids’ 1k

Where is the start/finish line?

The race begins and ends at Civic Center Park – 43900 San Pablo Ave., Palm Desert, CA 92260.

Is there a time limit to complete the ½ marathon?

There is not. However, we will begin to reopen parts of the course at 10:30AM, at which time participants still running or walking will be asked to move to the sidewalk.

How do I sign up for the Palm Desert ½ Marathon & 5k?

Easy…Click HERE. You can also register at pre-race registration and packet pickup, or on race day at Civic Center Park. See below.

What do I get for racing?

1/2 marathon and 5K participants receive a bib with timing chip, a snazzy long-sleeve technical race shirt, a finisher’s medal, and post-race grub. Participants 21 and over can grab a free beer at the post-race beer garden. 1K Kids Race participants receive a bib, finisher medal, and post-race grub.

What are your COVID-19 rules?

Per current California Department of Public Health protocols for outdoor events, we are not requiring verification of vaccination status, verification of a negative COVID test, or use of masks at our event. With that said, this event will have over 1,000 participants and hundreds of spectators. We want everyone to feel comfortable and safe, whatever that might mean to you. No matter what you decide is best for you, your family, friends, and your fellow participants, we will not tolerate anyone who berates or threatens others for their decisions, whether you are someone who decides to wear a mask or not. If you are found to be harassing someone for any reason, we, the race producers, will disqualify you from the race and ban you from further events. Please be considerate of your fellow racers and allow everyone to have a good time.

Where can I find the race confirmation info?

Race information emails will be sent out one week prior to the event.

If I sign up for the race, and I cannot participate, can I get a refund or transfer my registration to someone else?

The Palm Desert ½ Marathon & 5k has a no refunds policy, but you may transfer your entry to another person. Please email info@southland-events.com for transfer instructions.

If I cannot participate, can I defer my entry to next year?

While you cannot defer your entry to next year, you can cancel your entry by logging in to your RunSignUp account up to 7 days before the event. Follow the directions here. When registration opens for 2026, you will receive a code for 50% off of your 2025 registration.

Can I change distances?

Yes. Click here for directions on changing distances.

How can I make changes to my registration (t-shirt size, name misspelling, etc.)?

You can take care of any race specific changes by following the directions here. If you have misspelled your name, changed addresses, etc., please email the corrected information to info@southland-events.com.

Where can I find a description of the courses and course maps?

Click HERE to find course descriptions and maps.

How many aid stations are on course?

For the ½ marathon, there are eight aid stations at miles .95, 2.7, 4.7, 6.5, 8.4, 9.9, 11.5 and 12.5. For the 5k, there will be 1 aid station participants will pass 3 times.

Is there any nutrition on course?

Yes. Gels will be available at mile 9.9 for 1/2 marathon participants only.

Can I run with a stroller?

Yes, you can! Please line up at the back of your starting group so those crazy runners at the front don’t knock over your precious kids.

Can I run with a dog?

You may walk with your dog in the 5k only, as long as they are friendly and on a leash. You may not run with your dog in any of the distances.

Can I wear headphones?

Yes. USATF rules allow the use of headphones. However, we ask that you keep one headphone out so that you can hear directions from race officials or emergency vehicles. Those participants who wish to compete for awards may not wear headphones.

When and where is packet pickup?

Pre-race and race day packet pickup will take place at Palm Desert Civic Center Park.

Saturday, February 15, 2025 – 10AM to 4PM

Sunday, February 16, 2025 – 5:30AM to race start

Can I register in person?

Yes, you can register at packet pickup.

Can a friend or family member pick up my race packet?

No, you must pick up your own race packet. You will be required to show ID when you do so. The only exception will be parents and guardians picking up packets for minors.