Emma Crawford Halloween Coffin Race (Her Coffin Washed Down Mountain)

Photographs from the 19th Annual Emma Crawford Coffin Race in downtown Manitou Springs, Colorado on Saturday, October 26, 2013. (Kent Nishimura/The Gazette)

Read more at http://coloradosprings.com/gallery/2032/pictures/348843#rBdRbtYdkl54Pl0D.99

Head to Colorado for the annual Halloween coffin race

18 Oct 2013 at 11:24 am

Looking to do something more interesting than the usual ‘Trick or Treating’ this Halloween?

Then head to Manitou Springs, Colorado, for the annual Emma Crawford Coffin Race and Festival.

This unconventional Halloween event sees locals celebrate the legend of Emma Crawford by racing through Colorado city on hand-made coffins.

Crawford died aged 19 in 1890 and was buried at the top of the nearby Red Mountain. In 1929, after subsequent years of stormy weather, her the coffin was washed down the mountain and was later found in the canyon below. Many years later, officials created this unusual event in an effort to boost tourism.

The event is now in its 19^th year and attracts around 15,000 spectators. Prizes are also awarded for the ‘best dressed Emma’ and the ‘most creative coffin’.

This year’s race will be taking place on the 26^th October 2013.

For more information visit www.emmacrawfordfestival.com