Undead takes over uptown for charities

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Charlotte Zombie Walk took to the streets for its sixth anniversary Saturday.

Drew Badger, the organizer of the event, said he expected between 300 and 500 people on Saturday.

"People don't want to give up Halloween just yet," Badger said.

The staging area for the walk was Phil's NYC Deli and Tavern at Tryon and Fifth streets, but the zombies began looking for tasty brains at 7 p.m. at Trade and Tryon streets.

Badger started the zombie walk after attending one in Raleigh, N.C. He invited friends to come dressed as zombies.

"I expected 20 people," he said. "I had about 80 people."

The event is also used as a fundraiser and collected food for Second Harvest Food Bank and toys for Brian's Wish at Levine Children's Hospital.

Zombies were asked to bring a couple cans of food or a new, unwrapped toy.

Badger said he started with blood drives at the event and then transformed it into a food bank collection.

"It makes it easier for people," Badger said. "Dress up in bloody clothes and also give back to the community. People seem to like it."

Phil's NYC Deli and Tavern offered food and drink specials for anyone dressed as the undead.

Badger commented on the weather for the event. "It's a perfect gray day to walk around," he said.

Makeup artists were available at 5 p.m. to help people get into character.

For more information on the event, click here.

WSOC