Zombies to rule the night in Bradenton

BRADENTON - Halloween night is going to be a pretty scary affair in downtown Bradenton on Saturday, Oct. 31, as Zombie Fest participants rule the streets.

The event, from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m., is free, open to the public and hosted by Classic Inc, 1310 Third Ave. W.; Cork's Cigar Bar, 425 12th St. W.; and Mattison's Riverside, 1200 First Ave. W.

The evening begins at 6 p.m. at Classic Ink, where professional horror movie make-up artists will Zombify those without a Zombie costume for $10. Zombie Fest visitors may participate at the Zombification Station or just observe the techniques and watch the professionals transform Costume Contestants into Zombies.

At 8 p.m., the Zombie Walk begins and goes from Classic Ink to Mattison's Riverside.

At 9 p.m. the Zombie Costume Contest begins at Mattison's Riverside, where contestants and party-goers can enjoy Zombie appetizers, dinner and spooky drink specials.

Costume contestants must be 21 years or older to participate. From 9:30 p.m. to 2 a.m. there will be live music on Old Main Street by three local bands, The Wankers, Spankin' Fresh and Rancid Polecats.

Zombie Fest participants may participate in one or all of the Zombie Fest activities.

The Zombie Fest is a coordinated effort by the Main Street Merchants Association, B'Towne Coffee, Favs, Fisherman Joes and The Lost Kangaroo; Classic Ink; Cork's Cigar Bar; and Mattison's Riverside.

Mattison's Riverside at 1200 First Ave. W. is taking reservations. They can be made by calling (941) 748.8087 or on the Web site.