El Trote
De Las Calacas 2026

Lively Cultural Event & Certified 5K Race

Experience the festive El Trote De Las Calacas (Skeleton Trot), a USTF-certified 5K race/walk and lively cultural event in its third annual year! With over 1,000 attendees in 2025, all will experience the celebration honoring Day of the Dead with music, food, dancing catrinas, performers, a cultural marketplace and more. The race steps off amid music and fanfare at 9 am on a course that begins at the Gail Borden Public Library at 270 N. Grove Ave., Elgin, IL 60120.

Be part of the tradition. Run with the Calacas!

Presented by the Gail Borden Public Library District Foundation and the U-46 Educational Foundation. By participating as a runner, walker, sponsor, or volunteer, you help support two of the community’s premier child-focused 501(c)(3) nonprofits. This unique partnership turns every stride into an investment for the community, combining cultural celebration with a powerful fundraising mission.

Gail Borden Foundation Logo
U46 Foundation Logo

Co-Sponsored by The City of Elgin

Elgin City Logo
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Saturday, October 10, 2026

Race Start 9 am

Race Page

Look back at 2025's race

News

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Skeleton Trot 5K and Marketplace Festival to benefit U-46 and Gail Borden Library foundations

Elgin Courier-News | September 30, 2025

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Skeleton Trot 5K and Marketplace Festival to benefit U-46 and Gail Borden Library foundations

Daily Herald | August 20, 2025

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2025 Sponsors

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