Zombie Walk

What is it? This congregation of the undead, shuffling through the city in search of brains, runs on Oct. 22. The ninth annual walk gets underway at 3 p.m. at Trinity Bellwoods Park and usually involves thousands of undead in some of the most original and, well, frightening getups imaginable. People travel from across the continent participate. More info at torontozombiewalk.ca

Tips: Bring anything that your zombie self requires. Creative and painstakingly crafted costumes are the norm. Liquid latex is your best friend. Prizes are given for the most unusual and best group costumes, among other categories.

After Dark Film Festival

What is it? The afterlife’s version of TIFF shows “new, innovative, independent and international thrilling films” in an atmosphere described by some as being akin to a rock concert.

There will be 18 feature- length and 25 short films.

It will also feature an appearance by special guest Michael Biehn (co-star in Terminator and Aliens movies).

The festival runs for eight nights from Oct. 20 to 27 at Toronto Underground Cinema (186 Spadina Ave).

Tips: Tickets for single screenings are $13; however, Oct. 22 will be Zombie Night. Although costumes aren’t a requirement throughout the festival, there are special discounts for zombies (how many other film festivals can say that?).

As founder and director Adam Lopez says, “We’re the only festival, as far as I can tell, in Toronto — if not the world — that gives a discount for the undead.”

For those wanting to take in all of the sights of the festival, all-access passes are going for $139, a savings of over $100 on single tickets. More info at torontoafterdark.com/2011

Night of Dread

What is it? Procession and ceremony featuring musicians, puppeteers, dancers and even stilt walkers to banish our “private and collective fears.”

The procession kicks off at Dufferin Grove Park at 6 p.m. on Oct. 29. It will head east along Bloor Street before turning south down Concord Avenue, east at Dewson Street and returning to Dufferin Grove for the ceremony, complete with bonfire.

Tips: The Night of Dread is a costumed event, with the dress code “black and white and absolutely dreadful.”

If you don’t have the time to make your own, don’t despair!

The Clay & Paper Theatre will be providing costumes for borrowing on a first-come, first-served basis. Those needing costumes should arrive around 4 p.m. to ensure they don’t miss out. More info at clayandpapertheatre.org