Zombies return to invade Welland

Bloody mess helping to feed people in need as annual event continues to grow in popularity

It was like a scene from “Night of the Living Dead” in Welland Saturday as zombies invaded the city’s downtown for the 11th time.

People dressed in their best ghoulish attire to have a night of fun while helping others in need during the annual Welland Zombie Walk.

“It’s fun, it helps people out,” said organizer James Takeo.

“There’s nothing more fun than dressing up and walking around like when you were a kid trick or treating, but we’re doing it a month early.”

People attending the event were encouraged to bring items for donation to local food banks or for Pets Alive Niagara.

Brad Ulch, the walk’s food drive co-ordinator, was pleased by the amount of donations amassed early in the evening.

“There’s about $3,000 worth sitting in my truck that’s going to Holy Trinity Church and the Open Arms Mission,” he said as people were still gathering. “This is the biggest response we’ve had.”

Leanne Doucet of Niagara Falls has been coming to the event every year since it’s beginning. She was there with her mom Joanne. This was her third year of attending.

“I love zombies,” Leanne said. “It’s fun to dress up.”

Said Joanne, “It gets me out of the house, and we get to spend some fun times together.”

Trisha Berger and her friend Freedom Rawn dressed as zombie waitresses serving up a plate of brains with ears on the side and an intestine shake.

“I love this event,” Berger said. “I love any excuse to dress up and have fun.”

Rawn was attending for the first time.

“I’ve lived here a couple of years but, haven’t had the chance to come to this before tonight,” she said. “This is really cool. I’ve never seen anything like this anywhere else.”

The walk’s popularity continues to grow. Changes to it this year are helping with the continued success of the event, Takeo said.

“This year we are really pleased, changing the location (to market square) and getting the stage with live entertainment is kicking things up a notch,” he said. “We are already talking about next year’s event.”