PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) – Keeping a Halloween tradition, Portlanders gathered for the annual Thrill the World event on Saturday, with participants dressing as zombies and dancing to Michael Jackson’s song “Thriller,” as a tribute to the late singer.

“Dressing up as a zombie gives me so much joy, I don’t know what that says about me, it just does,” one participant told KOIN 6 News at the Irving Park event.

The event aims to break down barriers by connecting people of all religions, race, gender identities and economic backgrounds through dance.

The event website adds, “This organization contributes to the growth of humanity by encouraging others to step up as leaders, visionaries, and creators. Role models around the world organize local dance groups to perform with other nations at the same time, and donations are accepted for charity of choice.”

This marks the 19th year Portland has participated in the worldwide event.