Emma Crawford would probably be surprised if she could see the festival held in her name every year. Ms. Crawford came to Manitou Springs, Colo., to seek a cure for her tuberculosis in the healing springs of the area. She passed away in 1891, and her final wish was to be buried on the top of Red Mountain. Her request was honored, but a storm washed the casket back down into town in 1929. Legend says that Crawford’s ghost now wanders the mountain.
Most towns would have simply reburied the casket and forgotten the incident, but Manitou Springs isn’t most towns. In the spirit of Halloween, Manitou holds an annual Emma Crawford Festival, complete with coffin races. Fifty different teams will compete Oct. 25, rolling coffins decked out as hotrods, pirate ships and more. Each team is comprised of four “mourners” who push the coffin in a bid for first place, and one “Emma,” who rides inside.
The race began in the ‘90s and now draws thousands of spectators. Admission to the event is free. Visitors can learn more about the creepier side of Colorado history at the Onaledge Bed and Breakfast, which is rumored to be haunted, or with Blue Moon Haunted History Tours.
Read This Next
Experience History in Budapest
History
Oct 11, 2014#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedHotel
Feb 20, 2025We Stayed at Kimpton Hotel Palomar: Here’s Our Take
Philadelphia was filling up with travelers, so I booked Kimpton Hotel Palomar due to its location in the heart of Center City — just off Samson Street, full of great restaurants. I parked around the corner; there are many options, and the hotel is also close to public transportation.
Sponsored Content
Discover Greece’s Tower Towns: A Journey Through History
Greece's tower towns offer a captivating blend of history, architecture and stunning landscapes that make them perfect for curious travelers. These towns, particularly found in the Mani region of the Peloponnese, are defined by stone towers built during the medieval period. Constructed for both defense and as symbols of family pride, the towers stand as a testament to the region's turbulent history and its residents’ resilience.
Hotel
Feb 20, 2025The Maidstone Hotel Debuts in New Orleans
After the success of The Maidstone East Hampton, The Maidstone Hotel name has made its way to New Orleans with the opening of The Maidstone New Orleans. The brand marks the start of its growing collection with a new chapter in the South with the help of ISMD’s passion for turning historic boutique properties into modern-day stays.
Hotel
Feb 20, 2025Mandai Rainforest Resort by Banyan Tree to Open in April 2025
Mandai Rainforest Resort by Banyan Tree will open in April 2025 and deliver a nature-inspired stay within Mandai Wildlife Reserve, Singapore’s integrated wildlife and nature destination. From the architecture to the interiors, the resort’s entire design harmonizes with the environment. Sitting on a little more than 11 acres, guests will enjoy direct access to Singapore Zoo, Night Safari, River Wonders, Bird Paradise and the upcoming Rainforest Wild.
Sponsored Content
Seoul: Your Favorite Worldwide City
Seoul is the place for your next bleisure destination.
Destinations / North America
Feb 19, 2025How to Experience Both Adrenaline and Zen in the Canadian Rockies
The Canadian Rockies region of Banff and Lake Louise offers abundant activities for thrill seekers and wellness enthusiasts alike.
ShareThis