World Zombie Day: London 2017 – Report & Gallery

You could be forgiven thinking there is no more room in hell, as the dead dawned on London yesterday. But don’t panic, the end of the world is not here; it was all part of an annual charity event called World Zombie Day: London and this year they are raising money for St Mungo’s to help improve the lives of homeless people for good.

The event is run on a voluntary basis and this is the 10th year the event has been held in London and with hundreds of the undead in attendance this has been the most successful year yet.

The event is promoted through word of mouth, with full details of the route only disclosed a few days prior to the event. This year the route started at Harrington Square Gardens and finished at the Piccadilly Institute, Piccadilly Circus, for the after party. Where the dead were very much alive. DOn’t believe us? Just check out this exclusive gallery of images from photographer Joseph Douglas:

The original World Zombie Day was first resurrected in Pittsburgh’s Monroeville Mall in 2006, which is the original location for George Romero’s film Dawn of the Dead. Now, more than 50 cities worldwide participate in World Zombie Day including New York, Pittsburgh, Paris, Hong Kong, Los Angeles, Chicago, Dallas, Seattle, and Tokyo.

The London branch has been operating since 2007 and has been taking to the streets for a decade now, helping to “bite back” against hunger and homelessness. World Zombie Day: London is fundraising for the charity St. Mungo’s Broadway, helping to rebuild lives and prevent homelessness.

St Mungo’s provides a bed, a warm room and so much more to more than 2,500 people every single night across London and the South. In the capital, they are the leading charity giving support to homeless and vulnerable people, working in some of the busiest areas to find people who are sleeping rough, providing safe housing and the means to a healthier, much more stable life away from the streets.

For anyone wishing to donate to the event can text BRNZ66 £3 to 70070 or you can show your support by donating straight to the JustGiving page: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/wzd2017

All the money raised will help improve the lives of homeless people.

All participant taking part in World Zombie Day are instructed to abide by the following Zombie Rules of Conduct:

Put on a good show! Stay in character but don’t get carried away. You are responsible for your own safety and good conduct.

1. Use the “haunted house” rule in that you are not to touch anyone.
2. Use your best judgement when it comes to planning your outfit. Please do not bring weapons (fake, fantasy, and definitely not real). As you’ll be on your feet and outdoors for most of the day, take this into consideration. And be creative!
3. Do not attempt to scare anyone who is not a willing participant. If anyone is freaking out, turn and shamble in the opposite direction. Avoid confrontations!
4. If your walk is anywhere near streets or roadways, stay on the pavement unless crossing the street. When crossing, it’s OK to “break character” and cross quickly. Think fast “New Dawn of the Dead” zombies verses the slower “Old Dawn of the Dead” zombies when crossing the street. Blocking traffic is a crime and anyone doing so could be arrested.
5. STRICTLY NO ILLEGAL DRUGS are permitted and no alcohol for under 18’s. Police will be called if this rule is broken.
6. No littering, destruction of property, or any other illegal activity. This includes smearing fake blood, banging on windows, etc. The organisers will not be held responsible for any damaged property. Pretend the location of the walk is your own neighbourhood and show the utmost respect. This event is a tradition, so we don’t want to ruin it. Remember, the press will be watching (along with the police) and this event could get world-wide news coverage. Let’s put on a good show.
7. Keep in mind you might be asked for a picture ID at the pubs and your zombie face might not match your picture ID. If you are refused entry, please understand the doorman is only doing his job.
8. Please do not attempt to push your way into any business if you are not welcome.