A nighttime desert run. An unforgettable experience under the stars. A weekend to discover 29 Palms.
The Joshua Tree Half Marathon by Vacation Races comes to 29 Palms on Saturday, November 7, 2026, and we’re excited to welcome runners, their families, and friends for its first year in our city!
Proudly supported by the Visit 29 Palms Events Program, this event offers a memorable way to experience the desert after dark, and a perfect reason to spend the weekend exploring. This year’s race weekend is centered at RESET Hotel, Vacation Races’ official lodging partner and the location of the start line, finish line, and race expo. Set against the open desert landscape of Twentynine Palms, the venue welcomes runners at both ends of their nighttime adventure.
Experience the Desert Under the Stars
Vacation Races exists to create opportunities to facilitate the best experiences of your life! The Joshua Tree Half Marathon by Vacation Races offers runners a one-of-a-kind nighttime desert running experience set just outside the iconic landscapes of Joshua Tree National Park, in Twentynine Palms, California.
The course winds through rugged high desert terrain under the stars, featuring dramatic rock formations, iconic Joshua trees, and expansive open skies. Runners experience the desert in a completely different way — guided by moonlight, headlamps, and a sky full of stars, creating a peaceful yet exhilarating atmosphere unlike any daytime race. The course offers a mix of rolling hills and smooth, runnable sections, making it both scenic and approachable.
Designed for half marathoners of all levels, this event combines an accessible distance with a truly unique setting. Vacation Races ensures a professionally organized experience, complete with well-stocked aid stations, clear course markings, and a vibrant finish line celebration to welcome runners back from their nighttime adventure.
Enjoy cool desert air, quiet trails, and the magic of running beneath the stars. Whether you’re chasing a personal best, trying something new, or simply taking in the surreal beauty of the desert at night, the Joshua Tree Half Marathon delivers an unforgettable experience in one of the most remarkable landscapes in the United States.
Ready to run under the stars? Visit Vacation Races for full event details and registration.
Plan Your Race Weekend
There’s plenty happening in 29 Palms beyond the finish line! With a weekend full of art, local traditions, shopping, and good food, consider arriving early or adding an extra night to explore. Looking for local tips to make the most of your race weekend? Our team at the City of 29 Palms Visitor Center is here to help! Stop by Tuesday–Friday, 11 a.m.–4 p.m., or Saturday, 10 a.m.–2 p.m., reach us by phone (760) 358 - 6324, or get in touch with us online for local recommendations to make the most of your race weekend.
Discover What’s Happening Around Town
Start Saturday at Freedom Plaza, where the 29 Palms Certified Farmers Market runs from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Browse farm-fresh produce, artisan breads, local honey, food vendors, and handmade goods. Also on Saturday, November 7, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., the Joshua Tree National Park Association’s Desert Discovery Day invites visitors to learn and play the desert way. Meet native ambassador animals, connect with park rangers, scientists, and climbing guides, and enjoy desert-themed crafts, games, story time, and s’mores. It’s a fun addition for families traveling with runners.
Art lovers can explore the Joshua Tree National Park Art Expo opening weekend, taking place November 7–8 at the historic 29 Palms Art Gallery. Open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. both days, the free celebration features artist booths, art activities, music, food and beverages, and a juried exhibition showcasing park-inspired work by more than 50 artists.
For a wonderfully unconventional desert tradition, visit the Annual Weed Show at the Old Schoolhouse Museum. This year’s theme, “G.O.A.T. — The Greatest of All Time!”, inspires imaginative arrangements made from dried desert plants, found objects, and unexpected accessories. Admission is free, with viewing hours Saturday, noon to 4 p.m., and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Explore the Flavors and Shops of 29 Palms
Fuel your desert adventure with a hearty lunch, pre-race dinner, or well-earned Sunday brunch. 29 Palms Inn, SBR 29, GRND SQRL, Kitchen in the Desert, 29 Palms Beer Co., Snakes & Stars, Cactus Trails Café, The Rib Co., and Campbell Hill Bakery are just a few of the great local spots to enjoy! Discover the diverse flavors and cuisines served at restaurants throughout 29 Palms.
Make time to browse 29 Palms’ boutiques and local shops, including those at Corner 62, The Historic Plaza, Tin Town, and more! From local art and handmade gifts to vintage treasures and desert-inspired goods, find a little piece of 29 Palms to bring home. Discover more local shops and one-of-a-kind finds throughout 29 Palms.
Explore Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree National Park, one of Southern California’s most iconic destinations, offers nearly 800,000 acres of extraordinary desert landscapes and world-class hiking trails, right on your doorstep in 29 Palms!
Twentynine Palms is the proud home of park headquarters and the original North Entrance on Utah Trail, making it an ideal base for exploring. Discover the history of Oasis of Mara, the desert fan palms of 49 Palms Oasis, and the dramatic boulder formations of Indian Cove, or head into the park for a scenic drive and sweeping desert views.
Start at the Joshua Tree National Park Visitor Center at Freedom Plaza, 6533 Freedom Way, open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Explore “Universal Threads,” its award-winning museum exhibit, to discover the connections among the desert’s earth, sky, plants, animals, and people, including the voices and stories of the Native American Tribes who call this landscape home. Browse the bookstore and talk with park staff to plan an outing that fits your race weekend.
Before You Arrive
Find your race weekend home base among 29 Palms’ hotels, historic inns, boutique stays, vacation rentals, and RV accommodations. Explore all places to stay in 29 Palms. Visit Vacation Races for the latest race details, including start times, packet pickup, parking, required gear, and more.
Join us in welcoming the Joshua Tree Half Marathon to Twentynine Palms for its first year in our city! Come for the miles under the stars, stay for the local discoveries, and help make this first race weekend in 29 Palms one to remember.