The weekend leading up to Halloween offers options for people to tour a collection of Dia de los Muertos altars by bike, as well as a run/walk at Mt. Tabor Park.
Saturday, October 29, 1-4 pm a Central Eastside District-wide altar bike tour starts at Milagro Theatre, 525 SE Stark St., with bike decorating and then visits a collection of Dia de los Muertos altars, or ofrendas (oh-fren-dahs). Constructed at various Central Eastside businesses, the altars honor deceased loved ones by displaying framed photos of them, as well as some of their favorite items. Some people even write notes for the departed to come read, as the holiday is believed to reunite the living and the dead. Altars typically have representations of earth (displayed as food), water (left in pitchers for spirits to drink), wind (paper banners) and fire (candles) incorporated into the display. Each altar will carry traditional elements while the creativity of the individual artists who created them will shine through. There is no cost to attend; however, registration is required at .Â
Sunday, October 30 the Friends of Mt. Tabor Tar N Trail 10k/5k and kids 5k takes off at 9 am. Runners and walkers of all types are invited to the scenic and challenging course that winds up and down a mix of tarmac and trail in Portland’s favorite volcano park. This marks the 10th year of the race, benefitting Friends of Mt. Tabor Park. Advance registration at or at the park the day of the race. Pricing ranges from $25 for the 10k run to $15 for the 5k run/walk and for kids 12 and under, the 5k is just $5.
