Race the Dead

Race the Dead is a fun run in Towanda, Illinois, on October 30, 2026, starting at 5:53 p.m. from Kicks Bar and Grill. The 5K covers 3.1 miles on a flat course along historic Route 66 and past Towanda's haunted cemetery. It is not officially timed, though a lighted clock runs at the finish. Costumes are encouraged with prizes for Halloween outfits, an aid station serves seasonal treats, and entry includes a drink coupon at Kicks.

Without official timing, this is a race to run by feel, which is the whole point on a flat 5K the night before Halloween. Beginners can walk and run in whatever mix works. If you do want a hard effort, the flat profile makes even pacing easy to hold, so pick a target pace and stay on it rather than surging early.