StraCesena – The Little Run for Good

A run that benefits the whole city

StraCesena – The Little Run for Good is not a race: it's a big town festival disguised as a running event. Every year, on the last Sunday of May, the streets of Cesena (province of Forlì-Cesena, in Emilia-Romagna) fill with families, children, athletes, and curious onlookers who walk or run together with a common goal: to raise funds for hospitalized children. The event, a recreational-motor and non-competitive activity, is open to everyone, from the youngest to the grandparents, because here it's not about finishing first, but about participating.

The route: from the center to the Malatestiana Fortress

The start is set at Piazza del Popolo, the city's main square, and the finish is at the scenic Malatestiana Fortress, a symbol of Cesena that overlooks the historic center from the Garampo hill. Participants can choose between two routes:

• Relax Route (5 km) — a gentle walk through the heart of the city, perfect for families and those who want to enjoy the monuments at a leisurely pace.
• Sport Route (12 km) — a more challenging loop that climbs and offers panoramic views of the city and, on clear days, up to the Romagna coast.

There is no time limit to cross the finish line: everyone goes at their own pace.

Sport, music, and solidarity

StraCesena is above all an occasion for community. Along the route and at the finish line, there will be live music, entertainment, and festive moments, with stands from local social organizations and associations. The day concludes with a grand convivial gathering at the Fortress, featuring an aperitif, snacks, and entertainment for all ages.

The charitable heart

Since its first edition in 2016, the goal has always been the same: the entire proceeds from registrations are donated to the 'Child-Friendly Pediatrics' project of the Pediatric Department of the Maurizio Bufalini Hospital in Cesena. In ten editions, StraCesena has raised a total of around one hundred thousand euros, funding projects such as pet therapy and initiatives for hospitalized children. It is promoted by Matilde Studio, UISP Forlì-Cesena, and Saraghina Group, with the patronage of the Municipality of Cesena and the Emilia-Romagna Health Service.