Volksläufe - The People's Race
From Frankenmuth Jaycees
- Date Sat 4th July 2026
- Time 7:00AM EDT
- Location Frankenmuth, Michigan
- Price $12.28 - $81.66
- Races 12 races
- Distances 5km, 10km, Half Marathon
Event summary
Get ready for an unforgettable experience at the 51st Annual Volksläufe - The People's Race, taking place on Saturday, July 4, 2026, in the charming town of Frankenmuth, Saginaw. Organized by the dedicated Frankenmuth Jaycees, this beloved event has been a cornerstone of community spirit for over five decades. As we celebrate America's 250th anniversary, the Volksläufe promises to be a vibrant tribute to our nation's heritage, filled with family, friendship, and fitness.
Participants can choose from a range of race distances, including a 5K, 10K, and Half-Marathon, all set against the stunning backdrop of Frankenmuth's picturesque Bavarian streets and serene Cass River. For the youngest athletes or those new to running, there’s also a 2K Fun Run that captures the same festive atmosphere. The excitement begins on the evening of July 3rd with a celebration featuring live entertainment, delicious food vendors, and family-friendly activities, culminating in a spectacular fireworks display to kick off Independence Day. Join us in making memories, supporting local charities, and embracing the vibrant heart of our community at this remarkable event!
Participants can choose from a range of race distances, including a 5K, 10K, and Half-Marathon, all set against the stunning backdrop of Frankenmuth's picturesque Bavarian streets and serene Cass River. For the youngest athletes or those new to running, there’s also a 2K Fun Run that captures the same festive atmosphere. The excitement begins on the evening of July 3rd with a celebration featuring live entertainment, delicious food vendors, and family-friendly activities, culminating in a spectacular fireworks display to kick off Independence Day. Join us in making memories, supporting local charities, and embracing the vibrant heart of our community at this remarkable event!
Organiser's Description
Description
For over five decades, the Volksl"aufe has brought together runners from all walks of life, making it far more than a race; its a cherished community tradition. The Volksl"aufe, meaning The Peoples Race in German, embraces the spirit of family, friendship, and fitness, inviting participants to a fun and meaningful celebration.
In 2026, we celebrate something even bigger.
As our nation marks its 250th anniversary, this years Volksl"aufe carries an extra layer of pride and purpose. Hosted by the Frankenmuth Jaycees, this Fourth of July tradition will honor 250 years of American spirit with every mile, every cheer, and every finish-line moment, all while continuing our mission to support charitable causes close to our communitys heart.
Our 51st Annual race will feature the traditional 5K, 10K, and Half-Marathon, guiding runners through Frankenmuths picturesque Bavarian streets, scenic countryside, and along the peaceful Cass River. And for our youngest runners and those new to racing, we proudly offer the 2K Fun Run, a shorter route filled with the same high spirits and patriotic energy as the longer distances.
Whether youre chasing a personal best, running in red, white, and blue with friends, or starting a new family tradition, the Volksl"aufe has something for everyone.
Race Day Schedule Friday, July 4, 2025
Heritage Park, Frankenmuth, MI
10K Start 7:00 AM
Half-Marathon Start 7:15 AM
5K Run Start 9:00 AM
5K Walk Start 9:05 AM
2K Fun Run Start 10:00 AM
Packet Pickup Location
601 Weiss St.
Frankenmuth, MI 48734
Thursday, July 3, 2026
5:00 PM 9:00 PM EDT
Race Day Saturday, July 4, 2026
6:00 AM 9:45 AM EDT
Stick around on Volksl"aufe Eve (Friday, July 3) for an evening of celebration before the big race.
From 5:00 PM until the fireworks begin around 10:00 PM, enjoy:
Live entertainment
Food vendors
A bustling community marketplace
Family-friendly activities and music
And of course, the spectacular Frankenmuth fireworks display lighting up the night sky as we kick off Independence Day weekend.
There is no better way to begin Americas 250th birthday celebration than surrounded by community, music, and the unmistakable tradition of a Fourth of July in Frankenmuth.
As always, the Frankenmuth Jaycees mission goes far beyond the race. Every dollar raised helps fund the July 3rd fireworks display and supports charitable initiatives throughout the year. When you run Volksl"aufe, you are investing directly back into the community.
After crossing the finish line on July 4th, stick around for post-race festivities filled with food, music, and celebration.
The Volksl"aufe is about people: racers, families, friends, sponsors, and our incredible volunteers. Together, we will make this 51st edition, and Americas 250th birthday, unforgettable.
Thank you for supporting this tradition and helping us continue to make a meaningful difference in our community.
For over five decades, the Volksl"aufe has brought together runners from all walks of life, making it far more than a race; its a cherished community tradition. The Volksl"aufe, meaning The Peoples Race in German, embraces the spirit of family, friendship, and fitness, inviting participants to a fun and meaningful celebration.
In 2026, we celebrate something even bigger.
As our nation marks its 250th anniversary, this years Volksl"aufe carries an extra layer of pride and purpose. Hosted by the Frankenmuth Jaycees, this Fourth of July tradition will honor 250 years of American spirit with every mile, every cheer, and every finish-line moment, all while continuing our mission to support charitable causes close to our communitys heart.
Our 51st Annual race will feature the traditional 5K, 10K, and Half-Marathon, guiding runners through Frankenmuths picturesque Bavarian streets, scenic countryside, and along the peaceful Cass River. And for our youngest runners and those new to racing, we proudly offer the 2K Fun Run, a shorter route filled with the same high spirits and patriotic energy as the longer distances.
Whether youre chasing a personal best, running in red, white, and blue with friends, or starting a new family tradition, the Volksl"aufe has something for everyone.
Race Day Schedule Friday, July 4, 2025
Heritage Park, Frankenmuth, MI
10K Start 7:00 AM
Half-Marathon Start 7:15 AM
5K Run Start 9:00 AM
5K Walk Start 9:05 AM
2K Fun Run Start 10:00 AM
Packet Pickup Location
601 Weiss St.
Frankenmuth, MI 48734
Thursday, July 3, 2026
5:00 PM 9:00 PM EDT
Race Day Saturday, July 4, 2026
6:00 AM 9:45 AM EDT
Stick around on Volksl"aufe Eve (Friday, July 3) for an evening of celebration before the big race.
From 5:00 PM until the fireworks begin around 10:00 PM, enjoy:
Live entertainment
Food vendors
A bustling community marketplace
Family-friendly activities and music
And of course, the spectacular Frankenmuth fireworks display lighting up the night sky as we kick off Independence Day weekend.
There is no better way to begin Americas 250th birthday celebration than surrounded by community, music, and the unmistakable tradition of a Fourth of July in Frankenmuth.
As always, the Frankenmuth Jaycees mission goes far beyond the race. Every dollar raised helps fund the July 3rd fireworks display and supports charitable initiatives throughout the year. When you run Volksl"aufe, you are investing directly back into the community.
After crossing the finish line on July 4th, stick around for post-race festivities filled with food, music, and celebration.
The Volksl"aufe is about people: racers, families, friends, sponsors, and our incredible volunteers. Together, we will make this 51st edition, and Americas 250th birthday, unforgettable.
Thank you for supporting this tradition and helping us continue to make a meaningful difference in our community.
Races
-
5K Run
Incl. $4.30 Fee & T-Shirt
Sat 4th July 2026 (9:00AM EDT)
$44.30
-
5K Walk
Incl. $4.30 Fee & T-Shirt
Sat 4th July 2026 (9:05AM EDT)
$44.30
-
10K Run
Incl. $4.64 Fee & T-Shirt
Sat 4th July 2026 (7:00AM EDT)
$49.64
-
10K/5K Zweiläufe
Incl. $6.66 Fee & T-Shirt
Sat 4th July 2026 (7:00AM EDT)
$81.66
Zweil"aufe Challenge: Take on the ultimate test of endurance by running both the 10K and the 5K races! Conquer the 10K in the morning, then catch your breath and gear up for the 5K later in the day. Its the perfect way to double the challenge, double the fun, and celebrate this special race day with an unforgettable achievement! -
Half Marathon Run
Incl. $4.98 Fee & T-Shirt
Sat 4th July 2026 (7:15AM EDT)
$54.98
Please Note: To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants, the half marathon has a cutoff time of 3.5 hours. This allows for an average pace of 16 minutes per mile. Runners who cannot maintain this pace may be asked to complete the race on sidewalks, as roads will reopen to traffic. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation in helping us provide a safe and well-supported race day for everyone! -
2K Family Fun Run
Incl. $2.95 Fee & T-Shirt
Sat 4th July 2026 (10:00AM EDT)
$22.95
-
5K Run - Economy
Incl. $3.63 Fee
Sat 4th July 2026 (9:00AM EDT)
$33.63
A streamlined participation option for runners who prefer a lower cost entry. This tier includes race participation only and does not include a commemorative shirt or finisher medal. -
5K Walk - Economy
Incl. $3.63 Fee
Sat 4th July 2026 (9:10AM EDT)
$33.63
A streamlined participation option for runners who prefer a lower cost entry. This tier includes race participation only and does not include a commemorative shirt or finisher medal. -
10K Run - Economy
Incl. $3.96 Fee
Sat 4th July 2026 (7:00AM EDT)
$38.96
A streamlined participation option for runners who prefer a lower cost entry. This tier includes race participation only and does not include a commemorative shirt or finisher medal. -
10K/5K Zweiläufe - Economy
Incl. $5.99 Fee
Sat 4th July 2026 (7:00AM EDT)
$70.99
Zweil"aufe Challenge: Take on the ultimate test of endurance by running both the 10K and the 5K races! Conquer the 10K in the morning, then catch your breath and gear up for the 5K later in the day. Its the perfect way to double the challenge, double the fun, and celebrate this special race day with an unforgettable achievement! A streamlined participation option for runners who prefer a lower cost entry. This tier includes race participation only and does not include a commemorative shirt or finisher medal. -
Half Marathon - Economy
Incl. $4.30 Fee
Sat 4th July 2026 (7:10AM EDT)
$44.30
Please Note: To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants, the half marathon has a cutoff time of 3.5 hours. This allows for an average pace of 16 minutes per mile. Runners who cannot maintain this pace may be asked to complete the race on sidewalks, as roads will reopen to traffic. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation in helping us provide a safe and well-supported race day for everyone! A streamlined participation option for runners who prefer a lower cost entry. This tier includes race participation only and does not include a commemorative shirt or finisher medal. -
2K Family Fun Run - Economy
Incl. $2.28 Fee
Sat 4th July 2026 (10:00AM EDT)
$12.28
A streamlined participation option for runners who prefer a lower cost entry. This tier includes race participation only and does not include a commemorative shirt or finisher medal.
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601 Weiss St, Heritage Park, Frankenmuth, 48734, MI, United States
Volksläufe - The People's Race
