The annual Tompkins Square Halloween Dog Parade returned to New York City, transforming the East Village into a vibrant celebration of all things canine on Saturday. Thousands of dog lovers gathered along Avenue A, eager to catch a glimpse of the city’s most creatively costumed pups, accompanied by their equally enthusiastic owners. This year’s event marked the 34th edition of the parade, cementing its status as a beloved Halloween tradition in the Big Apple.
The parade, which ran from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., saw participants walking their pets down the street from 13th to 7th, showcasing elaborate outfits that ranged from pop culture tributes to New York-themed designs. This year’s spectacle was bigger than ever, with a flood of onlookers spilling over sidewalks and jostling to get the perfect photo of their favorite four-legged fashionistas.
For many, the Tompkins Square Halloween Dog Parade is more than just a chance to dress up—it’s a chance to celebrate the close-knit community of NYC’s dog lovers. From intricate handmade costumes to laugh-out-loud funny outfits, there was no shortage of creativity. Dogs were seen dressed as iconic figures, including pop stars Sabrina Carpenter and Charli XCX, as well as nods to famous NYC landmarks like the Brooklyn Bridge. One standout was a poodle named Peppa, cleverly dressed in a pasta bowl costume that humorously referenced a political moment involving former President Donald Trump.
Local artist Elissa Desani and her pug, Harlequin La Rue, were decked out as mermaids, bringing a splash of under-the-sea magic to the event. “It’s special because it’s not just for the dogs but also the owners,” said Desani. “It’s about being part of a community.”
Volunteer organizers like Joseph Borduin, who has been involved for years, said the event continues to grow. “This was our biggest turnout yet,” he said, watching the sea of dogs and owners parade down the street. “It’s a day where everyone gets to show off their creativity and love for their pets.”
Despite the overwhelming turnout, Borduin noted that they decided not to hold a “Best in Show” contest this year due to the challenge of accommodating the sheer number of participants. However, this did not dampen the spirits of the crowd. “The joy and energy here are what make this parade special,” said longtime volunteer Tyrell Gibbs. “You can’t imagine the kind of love there is for the dog population in New York City.”
Among the crowd, there were plenty of first-timers eager to share in the fun. Hannah Mitchell, who brought her new dog, Babka, created a costume out of a Zabar’s deli bag filled with plush bagels and challah toys. “I made it myself, and it was so fun,” said Mitchell. “This parade is like a rite of passage for NYC dog owners.”
Businesses along the route also joined in the fun. Leah Tanner from the dog fashion brand Wild One set up a booth along the parade, offering treats and tennis balls. “We’ve heard about the parade for years,” said Tanner. “It’s a wonderful day to celebrate being a pet parent in the city.”
For New Yorkers, dogs have always been more than just pets. They are essential companions that help make the city’s sometimes chaotic lifestyle more bearable. The parade was a testament to this bond, with owners proudly strutting alongside their furry friends, who brought smiles to the faces of everyone they passed.
