LEXINGTON, Ky. — A lively horde of zombies descended on downtown Lexington Sunday evening, as part of the city’s annual Halloween festival. The event, which has gained recognition as a top Halloween destination, aligns with the festive spirit that captivates attendees every year.
The festival proudly claims accolades as one of the top events in various publications, making it into notable lists for Halloween festivities across the United States. Participants like Haydn Haycocks, who donned zombie attire, shared his excitement: “I moved here in 2017 and heard about it, and then, I guess you could say I collapsed and I died just in time to get here.”
This year’s celebration featured a smaller group of costumed dancers performing to the iconic track “Thriller,” with Payton Martin embodying Michael Jackson’s distinct style. “This is my first year doing it, actually, and this is my first year actually seeing the Thriller thing, so this is all new to me too,” Martin explained. His anticipation for the event reflects a long-standing admiration for Michael Jackson and his music.
The festival also featured vendors, including Julie “Juju” Judge, who has participated for a decade. Judge, who runs a store named Jujuland, characterized the collective experience as one filled with “good juju.” She emphasized the essence of love, peace, and nature intertwined with the festival. “It’s beautiful. It’s nothing but love, man,” Judge said, expressing her joy in witnessing the creativity of attendees.
As night fell, Main Street transformed into a vibrant scene filled with knights, dancers, and various characters awaiting the thrilling parade. “I love the people. I love talking to the people,” Judge remarked. The parade provided a platform for friends and family to engage with the performers, culminating in an energetic showcase of dance and creativity.
The exhilarating atmosphere characterized the day, as the parade and festivities captivated attendees of all ages. With friends and families waving at the various groups walking by, many participants could agree—this year’s Halloween festival was truly a thriller.
