The Polka Pace Race takes place on Main Street in Havana, Illinois on September 12, 2026. This running event features a 1-mile distance, making it accessible for runners of various fitness levels. The race starts at 8:00 AM, allowing you to complete your event early in the day. Entry fees range from $15 to $30, positioning it as an affordable local race option. Whether you're using this as a speed workout, a casual morning run, or a warm-up before a larger fall racing season, the Polka Pace Race offers a straightforward, no-frills competition in a small-town Illinois setting.
From the Race Organizer
About This Activity The Polka Pace Race is a 5K run through the streets of Havana, including a jaunt through our scenic Riverfront Park and down our historic brick streets. The race begins and ends in the downtown area on Main Street. The Polka Pace Race route is a U.S.A. Track and Field certified course. Along with the Polka Pace Race there will be a 1-mile Polka Dot Fun Run for children 10 and under. 2026 will mark the 43rd annual running of the Polka Pace Race; the race is held during Havana’s Oktoberfest celebration, which offers an assortment of activities for the entire family. For more information on the Polka Pace Race or Oktoberfest, please visit the Havana’s Chamber of Commerce at www.historichavanaillinois.com or Mason District Hospital at www.masondistricthospital.org Event details and schedule (Walkers and Strollers are welcome) 5K Entry fee includes Race registration, race bag, long sleeve race shirt, and beer ticket for those over 21. Online Registration - Now thru August 24, 2026 - Cost: $30.00 (Includes shirt and race bag) Late Registration – August 25, 2026, thru September 6, 2026 – Cost $30.00 (Shirt/Packet not guaranteed) Race Day registration is available ON SITE ONLY. Cash prizes for the top 3 finishers overall, both male and female. ($50, $25, $10) Glass pint drinking glasses for top 3 finishers both male and female age groups. Medals for top 10 finishers in Polka Dot 10 and under Fun Run. Packet Pickup – Race Day only starting at 7:00 AM, down on Main Street Running Event Timed 5K Race begins at 8:00 am (Walkers start behind runners please) Timing by J3 Timing, Times will be posted online following the race. Polka Dot fun run will begin at approximately 9:00 am Breakfast will be available for purchase near Main Street, after the race.
Hotels Near This Race
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Race Travel Insurance
Don't forget travel insurance for September 12.
You've trained for months and booked a trip to Havana, IL.
A pre-race injury, a delayed flight, or a family emergency can derail the whole thing.
Travel insurance can help cover your race entry fee, hotel, and flights if you can't make it,
and may cover medical costs if something goes wrong on the course. Plans typically only run
5-7% of your total trip cost — and running events are covered under standard plans with no
additional coverage needed.
Trip cancellation up to 100% of prepaid costs
Running events covered under standard plans — no add-ons needed
Trip interruption up to 150% of non-refundable costs
Polka Pace Race 2026 — Havana, IL takes place on September 12, 2026. The race is held in Havana, Illinois.
Where is Polka Pace Race 2026 — Havana, IL held?
Polka Pace Race 2026 — Havana, IL is held at Main Street in Havana, Illinois.
Where can I find hotels near Polka Pace Race 2026 — Havana, IL?
RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in Havana. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.
