El Trote De Las Calacas 2026

El Trote De Las Calacas, the Skeleton Trot, is a USATF-certified 5K run and walk in Elgin, Illinois. It starts from the Gail Borden Public Library on North Grove Avenue. The race is connected to Day of the Dead. The morning includes music, food, performers, dancing catrinas, costumes, and a festival inside the library. The Gail Borden Public Library District Foundation and the U-46 Educational Foundation organize it, with support from the City of Elgin. The route begins at the library, goes through Elgin’s historic northeast neighborhood, and uses the Fox River bike path for a portion of the 5K. Runners and walkers participate together, with recent crowds exceeding 1,000. An ofrenda, a cultural marketplace, and Day of the Dead costumes contribute to the community festival atmosphere. Proceeds benefit child-focused nonprofits associated with School District U-46 and the Gail Borden Public Library District.