Old Town Alexandria is set to transform into a scene straight out of a music video. Approximately 100 participants will bring a Michael Jackson “Thriller” zombie flash mob to lower King Street. Scheduled for Saturday, October 17, at 5 p.m., the community event combines Halloween fun with fundraising. All net proceeds will benefit Lucky Dog Animal Rescue.
Coldwell Banker Realty real estate agents Barb Scheeler and Rachel Knapp coordinate the public event. According to the organizers, about 100 dancers and walking zombies signed up to participate in the performance. The event will take place in the unit block near King and Union streets.
From New York Inspiration to Community Action
Barb Scheeler stated that she was inspired to create the Alexandria event after witnessing a similar flash mob unite a community in New York City. She noted that the gathering highlights how vibrant Old Town is and how enthusiastically the neighborhood embraces Halloween.
Rachel Knapp emphasized the high adoption and rescue demand in the Washington, D.C. region, making Lucky Dog Animal Rescue an ideal beneficiary. Participant fees cover dance instruction and advertising expenses. Remaining proceeds directly support the non-profit organization’s efforts to provide foster care, medical treatment, and transport for rescue pets.
Event Schedule and Participation Options
Participants could choose between two roles: synchronized dancers or walking zombies, affectionately referred to as “shamblers.” Rehearsals were held locally, including practice spaces provided by Port City Brewing Company. A final dry run is scheduled prior to Saturday.
On October 17, preparations begin at 3 p.m. at Coldwell Banker Realty’s office located at 310 King Street. There, professional makeup artists will help participants get into full zombie character. Prelude music starts near 5 p.m., leading into the 12- to 15-minute street performance featuring a Michael Jackson character.
Post-Performance Haunt and Community Support
Following the performance, the costumed participants will embark on a local “zombie crawl” through Old Town. Local establishments, including Vola’s Dockside Grill, have partnered with the event to offer specialized zombie-themed food and drinks.
Organizers have stationed volunteers to manage spectator safety and keep the roadway clear during the dance. At the final chorus, spectators are encouraged to join in the fun. Scheeler and Knapp hope the success of this inaugural event paves the way for an expanded, multi-block celebration in future years.
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where is the Thriller flash mob taking place?
The performance is scheduled for Saturday, October 17, at 5 p.m. in the unit block of King Street (near King and Union streets) in Old Town Alexandria.
Who is the event benefiting?
All proceeds remaining after instructor and advertising costs go directly to Lucky Dog Animal Rescue, a non-profit organization helping dogs and cats find permanent homes.
Who organized the flash mob?
The event is coordinated by Coldwell Banker Realty real estate agents Barb Scheeler and Rachel Knapp.
Do participants need prior dancing experience?
No. Participants could choose to join as trained dancers learning the choreography or as casual walking zombies (“shamblers”) moving with the crowd.
Where do participants get ready?
Makeup and preparation sessions begin at 3 p.m. on event day at the Coldwell Banker Realty office located at 310 King Street.
