Indiana in the fall is one of those well-kept running secrets that does not stay secret for long. The summer humidity finally lets go, the leaves start doing their thing, and suddenly a long run along a tree-lined road feels like the reward instead of the punishment. It is a genuinely great season to chase 13.1 here — cool enough to push, pretty enough to forget you are pushing.
And there is a nice spread of options on the calendar this fall. Four races worth circling, from a big-time college-town classic to a small-town veterans tribute, all packed into October and November 2026. Here is what to know about each, whether this is your first half or one of many.
Purdue Boilermaker Half-Marathon & 5K
Saturday, October 24, 2026 — West Lafayette, Indiana
If you want the full big-race-day feeling, this is your pick. The Boilermaker Half rolls through West Lafayette on a late-October Saturday, which usually means crisp air and a campus buzzing with energy. It is the highest-rated race in this group for a reason — the kind of event that makes a first-timer feel like a big deal and gives veterans a reason to chase a fast day. Register early if you are eyeing this one; fall races in college towns tend to fill.
See the Purdue Boilermaker Half-Marathon & 5K race page
Duneland Half Marathon and 5K
Sunday, October 25, 2026 — Chesterton, Indiana
A Sunday race the day after the Boilermaker, which means you could theoretically double up — though we would gently suggest picking one unless you enjoy a very specific kind of suffering. Duneland sits in Chesterton, up in the northwest corner of the state near the Indiana Dunes, and it carries that relaxed, community-race feel that makes a half marathon feel less like a test and more like a morning out with your people. Great option if you want a lower-key, well-run day.
See the Duneland Half Marathon and 5K race page
Veterans Marathon and Half Marathon
Saturday, November 14, 2026 — Columbia City, Indiana
Mid-November in Columbia City, and a race with real meaning behind it. The Veterans Marathon and Half Marathon draws runners who want their miles to stand for something, and the small-town setting keeps the whole thing personal rather than overwhelming. If you have been looking for a fall half with heart, this is the one. November mornings here can bite, so plan your layers accordingly.
See the Veterans Marathon and Half Marathon race page
Zionsville Half-Marathon & 5K, Presented by OrthoIndy
Saturday, November 21, 2026 — Zionsville, Indiana
Closing out the fall season in Zionsville, just north of Indianapolis, with a race that has built a solid reputation over the years. Late November means you have had a full fall of training behind you, and this is a nice one to point at as your goal race — or your season finale before you hang up the shoes for a bit. Charming town, strong local support, and a date that gives you plenty of runway to get ready.
See the Zionsville Half-Marathon & 5K race page
Which One Fits You?
New to the distance? The Boilermaker's big-day energy or Duneland's friendly vibe are both welcoming places to start. Want meaning with your miles? Columbia City in November. Looking for a season-closer with a full training block behind it? Zionsville.
Whichever you pick, the move right now is to register — fall races in Indiana fill up as the weather turns, and there is nothing worse than finding your perfect race a week after it closed. From your first 13.1 to a long-running Indiana streak, there is a start line here with your name on it.
Ready to see everything the state has to offer? Head to our full Indiana half marathon directory to browse all upcoming races, compare dates, and lock in your next adventure.