Hundreds of zombies flooded the streets to dance to Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” and interact with parade attendees. 

On Sunday, Oct. 26, community members of all ages gathered in downtown Lexington to watch as zombies rose from the sidewalk to join Michael Jackson impersonators in celebrating Halloween.

Lalaneah Bailey, an Ola Ray impersonator at the parade, said the event changed her perspective on “Thriller” and how it connects people.

“I love it because people from all generations, the little bitty kids that weren’t even around when Michael was around still want to do the ‘Thriller’ dance, love Michael, love ‘Thriller,’” Bailey said. “So it’s generational, or something that’s going to last probably forever.” 

The unity she felt at the parade was like no other, Bailey said. “Thriller” brought people together, no matter their race or culture. 

“You see everybody happy when we’re here to perform. And everybody, even the children, are so serious with their zombie characters,” Bailey said.

Dancers rehearsed for the parade starting Sept. 29 up until the night of the event, according to Logan Gwynn, one of the zombie dancers. 

As someone who has a long history with the parade, attending his first one in fifth grade, Gwynn said he decided to help others have the same experience he did.

“It was always my favorite event as a child, so being able to actually perform in it is just a completely different experience and it’s cool to see the flip side of things,” Gwynn said. “I just enjoy interacting with people and bringing the Halloween spirit.”

Dorron Riddick, a Michael Jackson impersonator and experienced dancer, said this is the first year he was involved in the parade, and he hopes to continue in the future.

“I’ve never been the most outgoing person, I never talked a lot, but doing this kind of put me out there,” Riddick said. “So now I have the confidence to go meet new people and see what I can do in the future.” 

Describing the experience as “exciting,” Riddick said the event changed his perspective on connecting with strangers.

“I didn’t know I was going to be all the way out here the year before, I was just dancing in my kitchen,” Riddick said. “It’s really energizing, the whole experience. Everybody’s cheering for you, everybody’s excited, everybody’s happy. It’s a great time.”