The Asbury Park Zombie Walk returns Saturday
Big Bang Baby headlines afterparty at Johnny Mac’s on Main Street
[Correction: A previous version of this article incorrectly referred to the zombie makeovers as free. Below find the pricing and chances to view the Zombie Walk’s Thriller Dance Performances.]
The record breaking Asbury Park Zombie Walk returns Saturday to the city’s waterfront.
Conceived, organized and produced by Jason Meehan, the event twice claimed the Guinness World Record for drawing crowds numbering in the thousands; most recently with 9,592 participants in 2013 with 9,592.
In 2015, Meehan, with a growing family, initially cancelled the event finding it difficult to dedicate the time and effort needed coordination a gathering now numbering in the tens of thousands. But as luck would have it local proprietors John and Mary McGillion, owners of Johnny Mac’s House of Spirits on Main Street, quickly stepped in with logistical support after purchasing the rights to the ever-growing event. Together, with support from the Asbury Park Chamber of Commerce, the spirits of the dead gathered en masse.
As of Monday afternoon, 11oo people confirmed attendance via Facebook, with 22oo clicking the interested in going tab.
This year, the Zombie Walk kicks off at 10 a.m. with an official Zombie Walk Info Booth and Merchandise Stand located just outside the Paramount Theatre [1300 Ocean Ave]. It’s also when Zombie makeovers can be garnered by Pro Makeup Artist Alley inside Convention Hall. The makeup is not free. There are professional makeup artists that will do makeovers for a fee. There are 3 tiers: Basic $15, Gross $30, and Total Makeovers $50, organizers said.
The Central Jersey Blood Center will again be hosting their Zombie Blood Drive at the circle outside of Paramount.
And while the undead will be unleashed across the city throughout the day, the parade kicks off at 4 p.m. from Convention Hall. Zombies of all ages and styles will traverse toward the Carousel before heading downtown where Johnny Mac’s after party features a performance by Big Bang Baby, and spins by DJs Rob Busch and Kirk Lopez.
And those looking to view the Zombie Walk’s signature Thriller Dance will have three chances, beginning with a 3:30 p.m. pre procession performance at Convention Hall.
For more information, visit the official Zombie Walk website here, or via Facebook here.
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