Zombie Walk raises funds for animal rescue

The 2026 Brandon Zombie Walk turned Stanley Park into a gathering of zombies, families and animal lovers while raising funds for local animal rescues Sunday afternoon.

The annual event, which was attended by about 70 people who braved chilly weather, featured participants dressed in zombie costumes before setting out on a roughly 3.5-kilometre walk through the city.

The event has grown over the years, said proprietor Angel Robbins, who has led the planning for the past seven out of 17 years.

Although this year’s turnout was lower than last year’s more than 100 participants, Robbins said the colder weather was a factor.

“It’s not bad considering the weather,” she said of Sunday’s turnout.

The event also featured more activities than in previous years, including bouncy castles and popcorn, as organizers sought to make the gathering more family-friendly.

“We’re trying to become more kid-friendly with stuff to give … the kids while we’re waiting for the walk,” Robbins said.

The fundraising component remains the central purpose of the event. Each year, organizers select an animal rescue organization to support with proceeds from the walk. This year’s donation goes to “One At A Time Rescue.”

“This year, the event raised $127,” Robbins said. “Donations also came from people who were unable to attend the event but contributed online.”

The walk began at Stanley Park, with participants heading to 18th Street and down Victoria Avenue to 10th Street before returning along Rosser Avenue to Stanley Park.

Participant Zachery Waddell, who helps Robbins organize the event, said the fundraiser is driven by a desire to support animals in need.

“It’s for all the kittens and dogs in need,” Waddell said.

Waddell, who grew up on a farm surrounded by animals, said his experience caring for animals influenced his involvement with local rescue efforts.

Waddell said the event relies heavily on volunteers and community members willing to help with everything from transporting supplies to setting up the event.

“It’s very big event to try and run oneself,” he said.

He said the turnout remained strong despite the cold weather.

“It was an absolutely amazing turnout,” Waddell said.

Walk leader Brenyn Green said the walk went smoothly, with participants remaining together throughout the route.

“It went great. The walk was fun. No interruptions. Everyone stayed as a group. It was a fun time,” he said.

Robbins said the Zombie Walk’s Halloween connection remains part of its appeal, while the event has increasingly become an opportunity for families and community members to come together for a cause.

She credited local businesses, including Superstore, Giant Tiger, Co-op and Crave Corner, for supporting this year’s event.

“I just want to thank everybody for coming out and donating and making this an amazing experience,” she said.

» aodutola@brandonsun.com

» X: @AbiolaOdutola