By M.L. Lewis

It’s that time of year: zombie television premiere season. New episodes of The Walking Dead are just around the corner and what better way to celebrate than with a party?

Planning a party is tough. Everyone is expected to leave happy and full. You have to keep a premiere party going before, during and after the show. That’s a lot of time to fill and there are a lot of things to consider.
7. The Guest List
You should invite no more than six people to your party. By keeping things small you will lessen the distraction factor. Also, invite guests who are caught up on the show and know who the characters are. This prevents the guests from being pestered with annoying questions. Remember we are all gathered to watch the episodes, not play who knows the
most of the Walking Dead.

6. The Menu
There are all sorts of unique zombites on the web like brain cupcakes or a human buffet table. You’ll also have to remember the foods near and dear to our undead hearts. So, make sure there’s plenty of spaghetti, chocolate pudding, and peanut butter energy bars to go around.

To really make the party pop make a batch of Carol’s special cookies. For drinks for guests over twenty-one consider purchasing a couple bottles of Walking Dead Wine or cases of Walking Dead beer. For disposable cutlery and plates check out the zombie collection at orientaltrading.com.
5. The Atmosphere
Set the proper mood for the event by decorating the viewing room in a post-apocalyptic theme. Consider decorating it your favorite location from the show. Again, remember to keep things settle and not over stimulating. For decorating ideas and tips check on Pinterest. They have a lot of wonderful projects for the indoors and outdoors of your home. Don’t forget to tie a green balloon to your doorknob or mailbox in memory of those we have lost over the years.
4. Costumes
Another way to get the party jumping is by having the guests dress up as there favorite characters. Nothing makes a night more fun then cosplaying and embracing your inner Daryl, Rick, or Maggie. To make the guests put an effort in there costumes make it a contest and give a prize to the most realistic costume, scariest walker, and most creative crossover. The prize doesn’t have to be something super expensive, just a little something to reward your guests for there best efforts. Have a zombie impression contest and prove
your better than any walker on the show. Give awards for best shuffle and best moan.
3. Games
It wouldn’t be a bad idea to have some pre-show games for guests arriving early. Set up a zombie dart board to practice head shots. Set up a corn hole style game with pink balloons filled with sand or flour and toss them into rings to score points. Design bingo cards and mark off things you see characters saying or doing on a regular basis on the show. First, one to achieve bingo gets a prize. If your party is made up of guests over twenty-one then consider setting up a drinking game.
2. Survival Trivia
Another great game idea will be survival trivia. Have your guest line up along the wall on one side of the room. Then ask them life or death questions like; How many drops of bleach does it take to purify water? You found red berries in the bush, can you eat it? If you get them correct you’ll take a step forward, if you get it wrong then take a step back. The game is over once half the guests make it to the other side. If you don’t feel like doing the interactive version then do the points version. Ask the questions and give ten points
to whoever gets it right, and the first player to reach five hundred points you’ll win.

1. The After Party
This is just as important as the actual party. This gives your guests a chance to unwind and reflect on the events that unfolded in the episode you just watch. For some, it may be a time of grieving. So, make sure you have tissues on standby just in case. As the party begins to die down give each guest as they leave a treat bag filled with treats and goodies found on orientaltrading.com.

You have survived another Walking Dead premiere. These party tips can apply to other zombie shows like Z Nation, Saint Clarita Diet, iZombie, and other programs. Throwing zombie parties is a great way to make new friends and discuss the sticky plot holes like should Rick have finished off Negan? Were does Daryl get some many crossbow bolts?