The Southwest Detroit Business Association invites runners and walkers to the 2025 “Run of the Dead” 5K/10K on Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025, from 7 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the George S. Patton Park Recreation Center, 2301 Woodmere, Detroit, MI 48209. The annual event celebrates Día de Los Muertos (Day of the Dead), a Mexican holiday that honors deceased loved ones, and serves as a fundraiser for the Center of Music & Performing Arts Southwest (COMPÁS).

The USATF-certified 5K and 10K races will begin at 9 a.m., guiding participants through Southwest Detroit’s historic Holy Cross and Woodmere cemeteries. The 10K event will kick things off, followed by the 5K run and walk. Participants are encouraged to arrive early to visit local vendors, view the community ofrenda, and enjoy pre-race warm-ups.

An ofrenda (altar) will be created and displayed by a local leader to honor the memories of community loved ones. Participants are invited to celebrate the holiday by wearing traditional face paint, flowers, and attire. Halloween or non-traditional costumes are discouraged to preserve the cultural integrity of the event.

The race will feature light bites, vendors, and entertainment by COMPÁS, along with medal awards for both 5K and 10K categories, including 1st and 2nd place finishers and overall male and female winners. The event is chip timed by Wolf Creek Race Management.

Registration Fees:

General (Sept. 2 – Nov. 1, 2025): 5K – $55 | 10K – $60

Event Day (Nov. 1, 2025): 5K/10K – $75

Discounts:

High School Students Run Free – Code HS100 (school ID required)

First Responders Half Off – Code FR50 (badge required)

COMPÁS provides high-quality performing arts training and cultural experiences with a focus on youth socio-emotional development. By preserving the Latinx heritage of Southwest Detroit and celebrating its diversity through the arts, COMPÁS plays a vital role in the neighborhood’s cultural landscape.

For more information and to register, visit:
https://runsignup.com/Race/MI/Detroit/RunoftheDeadFundraiser

For any questions email Events@southwestdetroit.com or call (313) 842-0986.