10/26/09
Boston's first Monster March and Carnival attracted all ages to City Hall Plaza Sunday in the name of charity. The event benefitted the Samaritans, Boston's only suicide prevention hotline. Johnny Monsarrat, an artist and aspiring author who runs WeirdBostonEvents.org, organized Monster March.
Monsarrat was inspired to organize a march after attending a Zombie Crawl last year, where people dressed up and walked through Boston.
Monster March was more family-oriented than the Zombie Crawl, Monsarrat said. He scheduled a half a mile "Kids Walk" during the day and a 1-mile "Adult Walk" later at night. Five live bands and two mechanical bulls entertained the older crowd at the carnival, while inflatable obstacle courses, face painting and balloon animals catered to children.
Monsarrat said the Zombie Crawl was disorganized; they did not have a goal other than to have fun."There should be a purpose," Monsarrat said. Monster March walkers registered for a donation fee of $20 for students and children and $30 for adults. All proceeds will go to the Samaritans. The registration fee gave participants free access to carnival activities and entrance into the carnival's costume contest with $19,000 in prizes.
Monsarrat said many people were reluctant to donate to participate in the event. "I have a feeling we'll break even. People get this weird look on their faces when you ask them for a donation, even though it's for a good cause." he said.
Monsarrat founded Turbine Inc., the largest computer games company in New England. He also created "Wheel Questions," an outdoor art installation.
is a member of the 
