Run of the Dead
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Run of the Dead 2026
The Run of the Dead is a USATF-certified running event held in Detroit, Michigan, at the Patton Park Recreation Center. This event commemorates the Mexican holiday of Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), which honors deceased relatives and loved ones. Participants may take part in the festivities by wearing traditional face paint, flowers, and attire.
An ofrenda (altar) created by a community leader will be on display during the event for participants to visit. The race site also features various vendors, light bites, and entertainment provided by the Center of Music & Performing Arts Southwest (COMPÁS). The event serves as a fundraiser for COMPÁS, a program focused on performing arts training, socio-emotional development for youth, and the preservation of Latinx heritage in Southwest Detroit.
The competition offers two primary distances:
- 5k (3.1 miles)
- 10k (6.2 miles)
The races are chip-timed by Wolf Creek Race Management. Runners for the 10k distance line up first, followed by 5k participants and walkers. Directional signs and volunteers are positioned along the course to guide runners. Medals are awarded to the overall male and female winners, as well as the first and second place winners in both the 5k and 10k categories. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
