ELLINWOOD — Ellinwood will be the site of the area’s first ever Zombie apocalypse, stirring up the deepest and murkiest and creative parts of the mind. The evening starts with a 5K run or 1 mile walk, starting at 6 p.m. Oct. 19 at the corner of Santa Fe and Main, followed by a Zombie Prom later in the evening.
“I was inspired because runs start to fizzle out this time of year,” said Chris McCord, originator of the run. “It gives people time to run later in the year. Plus, there are no runs at night.”
What happens between the starting line and the finishing line is entirely up to the runners, although no touching is allowed. Participants can dress up as a human or a zombie. Humans get a two minute head start.
The event is meant to be all in fun and allow people to enjoy having a different type of event.
McCord suggested dressing up as zombie in a prom dress, tux or vintage clothing with facial paint. For those that are walking, he suggested coming dressed up in a Halloween costume.
McCord got the idea for the run from the Internet, where a Zombie Run is a new fad.
The cost of the run is $25 previous to the day so that T-shirts can be ordered. The cost the day of is $30.
The cover charge for the Anti-prom is $5 or $4 and an item for the food bank.
Prizes are $50 for the fastest male and $50 for the fastest female runners. Prizes for second place are $25. There will also be a prize for the best Zombie in the 5K. The awards ceremony will be from 7:30-8:30 p.m.
The Zombie prom and dance begins at 8:30 p.m. Halloween costumes are in order for the prom. There will be a DJ and music from all eras with a cash bar. After 9 p.m. the dance will be for those 21 and older. Sign up prior to the event at eventbrite.com and search Zombie Run.
The money will benefit the remodel of the Wolf Hotel and the Ellinwood Food Bank. Call 620-617-6915 for more information.