Run 4 The Kielbasa starts and finishes in downtown Cedar, Michigan, during the Cedar Polka Fest, a Leelanau County tradition with more than four decades behind it. The main race is a professionally timed four-miler, with a shorter Run 2 The Pierogi for people who want the festival part without four full miles. Entry includes admission to the Polka Fest plus a beer or pop, so the race is tied directly to the day’s food, music, and parade crowd.
The start line sits near Bellinger and Cedar Road, close to the four-way stop in downtown Cedar. Runners, walkers, strollers, wheelchair racers, and dogs are all welcome, and participants are encouraged to dress up. There is also a virtual Run 4 The Kielbasa, which sends participants a collectible shirt and supports the Cedar community. After the race, people can stay for the Polka Fest Parade, Craft Show, Farmers Market, and polka bands.