Community members celebrate Halloween while benefiting local causes
By ALMA CULVERWELL — city@theaggie.org
On Oct. 27, the Davis Odd Fellows, the Bike Campaign, Bike Garage, Davis Bike Club and the city of Davis Parks and Community Services Department hosted the highly anticipated annual Zombie Bike Parade and Festival. This event, now a beloved local tradition, offered a fun, family-friendly way for Davis residents to celebrate Halloween while supporting meaningful causes. Community members attended for free with the event being fully sponsored by the organizing groups.
The day’s activities began at 11:30 a.m. with the Zombie Bike Parade — a five-mile bike ride starting at the Davis Community Park. Participants, many dressed up in costume, biked through town to reach Mace Ranch Park in North Davis. Upon arrival, the crowd enjoyed a bike motocross (BMX) stunt show with professional riders. After the show, community members made their way back to Community Park where the main festival awaited them at around 1 p.m.
From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., the Community Park festival offered something for everyone. The event featured over 15 entertainment stations, including professional DJs spinning music, food stalls with curated “zombie circus” treats and various live performances. Participants of all ages and abilities were welcome, reflecting the event’s inclusive atmosphere. Attendees could also visit the Haunted Photo Booth to capture photos, and children could explore the provided Halloween crafts, games and face painting as part of the “Zombie Zone.”
Fundraising was a key aspect of the event as well, with proceeds going to several local organizations. NorCal Trykers, which provides custom tricycles for children with disabilities, was the primary beneficiary. Additionally, the event raised funds for Friends of Watermelon Music Nonprofit, an organization supporting local music initiatives, and Toys for Tots, which provides holiday gifts to children in need.
Another highlight of the festival was the costumes, with over 25 prizes awarded to individuals and groups for creative costumes.
The Zombie Bike Parade has grown considerably since its creation. Initially created by Davis Odd Fellows member Dave Rosenburg and his wife Lea Rosenburg to raise funds for NorCal Trykers, the event quickly gained traction. Local cycling enthusiast Aaron Wedra joined forces with the Rosenbergs, solidifying the event’s structure and collaborating with the Odd Fellows to expand its scope. Today, the Zombie Bike Parade is a dynamic event with dedicated volunteers and staff members constantly evolving its offerings.
This year, the event was part of a city-wide Halloween celebration, with additional festivities over the weekend, including the fourth annual Trunk or Treat Extravaganza, the Davis Zombie Ball and the Zombie Mash Afterparty. These events underscored Davis’ commitment to creating an inclusive, festive environment for families and individuals of all ages.
Written by: Alma Culverwell — city@theaggie.org
