Celebrate Carrera de los Muertos/Race of the Dead 5K 12th Anniversary on October 27

Celebrate Carrera de los Muertos/Race of the Dead 5K 12th Anniversary on October 27.
Marking 12 years of tradition, memories and community vibrancy in the heart of Chicago.

CHICAGO, IL, September 6, 2018­­ Runners, walkers and Día de los Muertos enthusiasts can be part of the spiritual tradition and celebration during the Carrera de los Muertos/Race of the Dead 5K on Saturday, October 27, 2018 from 8 a.m. to noon.

The popular 5K Run/Walk is the original Día de los Muertos race in the U.S. and the only 5k race that runs through Pilsen in Chicago. This race coincides with the Day of the Dead, a Mexican tradition rooted in Mesoamerican culture. For centuries, this holiday—based on All Souls Day— has been celebrated by living loved ones who create altars and place “ofrendas” to honor their deceased family and friends.

“Many people identify with the Day of the Dead holiday in their own way,” says United Neighborhood Organization’s Interim Executive Director, Solskin Gomez­Krogh. “In its 12th year, UNO continues to bring this ritual of personal importance to the Chicago community as an outlet to celebrate their loved ones, ancestors and culture.”

The 5K race kicks off at 8 a.m. at Benito Juarez Community Academy, 1450 W Cermak Rd. in Chicago. The 3.1­mile course takes participants of all ages through the colorful streets of Pilsen, Chicago’s most culturally rich and vibrant neighborhood. Runners will be cheered on by folkloric dance groups, DJs spinning high energy music, along with spirited spectators and volunteers.

Afterward, a post­race awards party is scheduled back at Benito Juarez Community Academy. Participants and the public can enjoy live entertainment on stage, try authentic food and beverages, and buy from artisans and merchants. A family friendly area with Día de los Muertos activities will be part of the festivities.

A hand decorated, one-of-a-kind collectible “calavera” (skull) award awaits the top three male and female overall finishers in their respective age categories. Also, a special 12th­anniversary commemorative medal will be given to runners/walkers who complete the race.

Register online at www.unoraceofthedead.org .

The registration fee is $50-55 for timed runners. The timed fee includes instant access to personalized race result via text, a special edition race tech shirt, finisher medal, giveaways and more. Event information: www.unoraceofthedead.org or 312­432­6301. Find us on Facebook @UNO 5K ­ Carrera de los Muertos, Twitter @UNOCarrera and Instagram @uno5K.