Hundreds of people dressed as zombies monsters, and iconic pop culture figures gathered in São Paulo on Sunday for the annual Zombie Walk parade.

The event, held every year on Brazil’s Day of the Dead holiday, mixes gothic fun with cultural celebration, bringing together fans of horror movies, fantasy, and makeup artistry.

Even under umbrellas and smudged face paint, they marched through the city center in a lively and eerie procession in a celebration of freedom, creativity, and self-expression.

“The dead should not be forgotten — they should always be remembered with respect, devotion, and affection. What we do here is a way to bring culture and entertainment to ourselves,” said Cacau, a tattoo artist.

Organizers say the tradition, which has taken to the streets of São Paulo since 2006, aims to bring people together on a day often marked by mourning — transforming it into one of playful chaos and artistic celebration.

AP video by Thiago Mostazo and Maycron Abade