Polka Pace Race

About This Activity

• Event: 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.
• Route: The race begins and ends in the downtown area on Main Street and is a U.S.A. Track and Field certified course.
• Additional Event: Along with the Polka Pace Race, there will be a 1-mile Polka Dot Fun Run for children 10 and under.
• Celebration: The 2025 race will mark the 42nd annual running of the Polka Pace Race, held during Havana’s Oktoberfest celebration.

More Information

• Resource Links: 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

• Entry Fee: 5K Entry fee includes race registration, race bag, long sleeve race shirt, and beer ticket for those over 21.
• Registration: Early Registration - Now thru August 15, 2025 - Cost: $30.00. Late Registration – August 16, 2025, thru September 2, 2025 – Cost: $30.00 (Shirt/Packet not guaranteed).
• Race Day: Race Day registration is available ON SITE ONLY.
• Prizes: Cash prizes for the top 3 finishers overall, both male and female. ($50, $25, $10).

Awards and Pick-Up

• Finishers: Glass pint drinking glasses for top 3 finishers both male and female age groups.
• Medals: Medals for top 10 finishers in Polka Dot 10 and under Fun Run.
• Packet Pickup: Race Day only starting at 6:30 AM, down on Main Street.

Race Timing

• Start Time: Running Event Timed 5K Race begins at 8:00 am (Walkers start behind runners please).
• Fun Run: Polka Dot fun run will begin at approximately 9:00 am.
• Timing: Timing by J3 Timing, times will be posted online following the race.
• Breakfast: Breakfast will be available for purchase near Main Street, after the race.