Dashing through the snow will take on a whole new meaning come Saturday, December 11, as the citizens of Saugerties, New York may just find themselves being chased by zombies. But have no fear, because it's all the in the spirit of good, holiday fun, and supporting the local businesses of one of the crown jewels of the Hudson Valley.In the tradition of last October's smashingly successful Village Invasion zombie crawl, the Ghouls' Yule is an interactive, horror-flavored event which promises to take over the town and leave a trail of merrymaking in its wake. For all who have grown tired of the commercialization of Christmas, and are looking for a different way to celebrate this year, the Ghouls' Yule may be just what the undertaker ordered.
"This is all about spreading some holiday cheer, with a little zombie flair," according to the untiring Captain Cruella, organizer of both the Ghouls' Yule and the Village Invasion. "It's also about supporting local commerce, and I'm excited to have so many of the shops in town involved."
Indeed, many of the local establishments will be staying open late for the event, with dinner and drink specials offered at a number of the area bars and restaurants. And since it is Christmas, expect many of the stores to be open late for holiday shopping, as well. Dave's Coffee and Wine House will feature the eclectic music of the Connor Kennedy Band (CKB).Best of all, in keeping with the season, The Inquiring Mind bookstore will be the location for a special toy drive, in which patrons are encouraged to drop off unwrapped toys, in exchange for a free cup of coffee. The Inquiring Mind will also be hosting a special demonstration of the brand new horror strategy game Zombie Cataclysm, as well as a reading of Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol, by yours truly.
"I'm expecting people to be milling about town dressed as ghouls and ghosts straight out of the Dickens story," said Cruella. "Think Christmas, except with a certain spooky, Tim Burton-esque flavor to it. It should be a lot of fun!"
You can also expect giveaways, raffles and contests, including one for the best costume. All those interested in attending are encouraged to keep an eye on Captain Cruella's Facebook and Twitter pages, as well as her brand-new website, Cruella's Crypt.