Wheaton Haunted Flea Market draws costumed bargain hunters
You just might see zombies roaming Wheaton on Saturday, Oct. 21, but don't be concerned.
These zombies aren't out for brains - they're searching for bargains.
Truth be told, they won't even be real zombies. They'll be suburban shoppers with an affinity for deals and Halloween who are making the most of both at the seventh annual Wheaton Haunted Flea Market.
Shoppers are encouraged to dress up, organizer Tim Zurko said. Garb, makeup and props all are welcome - whether you dress as your favorite terrifying villain or your most cherished fantasy character.
"Come shop in costume," said Zurko, of Zurko Promotions, the Wisconsin-based company that presents the Halloween shopping event each year at the DuPage County Fairgrounds. "People love to dress up and have a good time. It's family friendly."
Up to 300 vendors will sell their merchandise in stalls set up inside three buildings and in outdoor booths at the fairgrounds, he said.
"It's a typical flea market. You'll find some bargain stuff, you'll find some antiques, and probably a lot of Halloween-related stuff," he said. "We also decorate the flea market with spooky stuff to give it a Halloween flair."
Though there will be some gentle lighting provided in the outdoor walkways, costumed shoppers often roam the grounds with light sources to further illuminate their path and add to the Halloween ambience.
"People bring flashlights for fun, or sometimes they'll wear those miners hats that have the lights on them," Zurko said.
Zurko's company has been presenting an all-night flea market each August in Wheaton for years.
"About 2011, we decided, 'why don't we do a haunted Halloween version of it,'" he said.
The evening is not just about creepy commerce.
Undead Johnny, star of the locally produced cable series "The World of the Weird Monster Show," will be at the market along with members of Age of the Geeks, a Chicago-area costume play group.
Showing off a collection of props used in popular films and programs will be representatives of the Horror and SciFi Prop Preservation Association, Zurko said.
Local musicians will perform, and a variety of food wagons will sell snacks and soft drinks. Hayrides through the fairgrounds will be available. Parking is free.
If you go
What: Seventh annual Haunted Halloween Flea Market
When: 3 p.m. to midnight Saturday, Oct. 21
Where: DuPage County Fairgrounds, 2015 Manchester Road, Wheaton
Admission: $7 for adults, free for children 12 and younger with an adult
Info: zurkopromotions.com