The streets of Asbury Park are once again set to be overrun by the undead, as the 17th annual Asbury Park Zombie Walk takes place this Saturday. What started as a quirky idea has now grown into one of the city’s most anticipated community events, drawing participants and spectators from across New Jersey and beyond. Each year, thousands of people gather to transform themselves into zombies, complete with costumes, makeup, and theatrical performances, all while moving together in an orderly parade through the city.
The event kicks off along the boardwalk just outside of Convention Hall, where costumed participants assemble before the march begins. The atmosphere is usually a mix of excitement and eerie fun, as families, groups of friends, and dedicated zombie enthusiasts come together to showcase their creativity. Participants often spend hours preparing their looks, ranging from light-hearted spooky costumes to elaborate special-effects makeup that can rival professional productions.
Once the parade begins, the zombie horde makes its way along the iconic Asbury Park boardwalk. This stretch has always been central to the event, with its mix of ocean views, crowds of onlookers, and the lively spirit of the community adding to the spectacle. Organizers emphasize that while the event is playful, it is carried out in an orderly fashion to maintain safety for both participants and the large audience that gathers each year.
From the boardwalk, the crowd of zombies continues the walk through downtown Asbury Park, winding through streets lined with shops, restaurants, and landmarks before finally reaching Main Street. The progression through these different parts of the city not only gives participants a wide stage to show off their zombie transformations but also boosts local businesses that enjoy the influx of visitors. Many shops and eateries decorate in theme for the day, offering specials and welcoming the walking dead with open arms.
Over the years, the Asbury Park Zombie Walk has developed into more than just a costumed parade; it has become a staple of the city’s identity and culture. Local residents often describe it as an event that brings people together in a lighthearted, festive way. While the concept of zombies may sound grim, the walk is filled with laughter, music, and camaraderie, turning what might seem like a spooky spectacle into a family-friendly celebration. Children, adults, and even pets often take part, with creative zombie pets becoming one of the highlights of recent years.
The 17th year of the event carries the same enthusiasm as its predecessors, with organizers expecting a strong turnout and plenty of memorable costumes. Community involvement has been key to its success, with volunteers helping coordinate the route, manage crowd control, and ensure that safety is upheld throughout the day. The walk has also gained recognition for its ability to draw visitors to Asbury Park during the fall season, providing a boost to tourism and hospitality industries that benefit from the event’s popularity.
Spectators often line the streets well in advance to secure good viewing spots, while participants arrive early to apply makeup, put on costumes, and prepare for the parade. Many makeup artists set up along the boardwalk to offer zombie transformations to those who want a last-minute touch-up or professional-grade look before joining the horde. This creative element has become a signature part of the day, contributing to the event’s visual impact and making it a favorite for photographers and social media enthusiasts.
As the zombies shuffle their way through town, the event remains both a spectacle and a unifying experience. It highlights the playful side of Asbury Park, showing how the city embraces creativity, fun, and community spirit. While other cities host similar gatherings, the Asbury Park Zombie Walk has carved out its own unique place, becoming one of the largest and longest-running events of its kind in the region.
For those planning to attend, the event promises not just a parade but an immersive experience that blends performance art, community bonding, and seasonal festivity. Whether someone is dressing up as a zombie or simply coming to watch, the atmosphere ensures that everyone feels part of something special. As Asbury Park prepares for the 17th annual walk, anticipation is high that this year’s edition will once again prove why it has become such a beloved tradition.
