1k Race for Artists 05/17/26

Be a Part of the MOST FUN Fun Run

CEPA’s first-annual 1k Race for Artists is a tongue-in-cheek, 21+ event for those who love the photographic arts, running, and taking it easy on race day.

The CEPA 1k Race for Artists takes place on a paved race course that overlooks scenic Lake Erie. Our race playfully subverts many expectations: races should be long and challenging, artists don’t like sports, and best dressed does NOT count on race day (see our prize categories).

Prizes to Win!

Prizes to be awarded by the 1k Grand Marshall include:

  • 1st, 2nd, 3rd, & Last Place (The coveted Marshall’s Cup and runners-up trophies)
  • Best Dressed (certificate)
  • Best Thematic Dress by a Race Team (certificate)
  • The Dennis Hopper Prize for Most Cameras Worn (certificate + CEPA Lab Membership)
  • Best Drone Photograph of the 1k Race for Artists (certificate + CEPA Lab Membership)

Memorabilia

You’ll get some serious swag, including:

  • A bumper sticker
  • A race T-shirt
  • Finish-line photos (be the winner when we photograph it to look that way!)

The MOST FUN Afterparty

Here’s what you can expect at the afterparty:

  • A set by globetrotting DJ Mike Parker
  • Beer (and water and soda) will flow at the finish line
  • Catering by Chiavetta’s Chicken
  • CEPA’s famous mobile darkroom

Tickets & Participation

All participants receive a digital finish-line photograph captured as you break through the tape, delivered by email the same day with a branded event logo. Additional drink tickets will be available for $5 each. A vegan meal option will be available, but must be pre-ordered. Additional T-shirts will be available for purchase while supplies last.

$40: Race Entry

  • One (1) race entry
  • Bumper sticker
  • Finish-line photo

$90: Race Entry + Party

  • One (1) race entry
  • Bumper sticker
  • Finish-line photo
  • Commemorative T-shirt
  • Chiavetta’s Chicken dinner
  • Two (2) drink tickets

$125: VIP Race Entry + Party

  • One (1) race entry
  • Bumper sticker
  • Finish-line photo
  • Commemorative T-shirt
  • Chiavetta’s Chicken dinner
  • Four (4) drink tickets
  • Priority check-in
  • Chance to win door prizes (including some FINE art)

$650: VIP Team Race Entry + Party

  • Six (6) race entries per team
  • Bumper stickers
  • Finish-line photos (individual AND group)
  • Commemorative T-shirts
  • Six (6) Chiavetta’s Chicken dinners
  • Four (4) drink tickets per team member
  • Priority check-in
  • Chance to win door prizes (including some FINE art)
  • Team name listed on event signage and website

Sponsor the Race

IT’S NOT TOO LATE TO BE AN EVENT SPONSOR! The 1k Race for Artists offers experiential sponsorship opportunities that prioritize visibility, participation, and a shared sense of joy. Sponsors support and participate! All sponsors will be included on the welcome photo backdrop.

Download the 1k Race for Artists PDF Packet to learn more about our sponsorship levels.

Event Location

Front Park
1 Porter Avenue
Buffalo, NY 14201

Event Date

Sunday, May 17, 2026

Event Time

12:00 p.m.–4:00 p.m.