The cutest – and furriest – costume party in town this Halloween is on the St. Pete Pier. The St. Pete Dog Parade takes place on Saturday, October 25 at Family Park on the St. Pete Pier.
The parade starts at 4 pm, with festivities taking place all afternoon, from 2-7 pm. The parade is free to attend as an observer, and those interested in participating can register here.
All attendees – humans and pups alike – are encouraged to wear their best Halloween costumes for what will be an extremely festive atmosphere among the St. Pete Pier pumpkin patch. Festivities include music, games, kids activities, fun for dogs, and great food and drink.
Photo via Pier Events
And of course, the star is the Dog Parade and the awards ceremony after. The panel of judges will select winners in three categories: Best Human & Pet Duo; Most Original Pet Costume; and People’s Choice.
It’s one of the best events of the year in town for dog lovers, whether you’re there to see the cute pups, or show off your own in their Halloween finest. The costumes are always creative, and it’s not unusual to see the most popular one regularly posing for pictures. It’s a belly-tickler for dogs and humans alike.
Support St. Pete’s oldest no-kill shelter
Plus, it’s all for a good cause. The entire event benefits Friends of Strays Animal Shelter, which is St. Pete’s oldest no-kill shelter, helping thousands of animals every year find their forever home.
Guests are encouraged to bring a bag of cat food or dog food (or both!) for the pet food drive that will help stock the Friends of Strays Food Pantry. The pantry has been providing under-resourced households with free cat and dog food since 2015 in partnership with St. Petersburg Free Clinic, Meals on Wheels, and Daystar Life Center
Photo via Pier Events
Interested in joining the parade?
Registration for the St. Pete Dog Parade is only $10, which includes a collectible St. Pete Pier bandana for your dog, a number bib to participate in the contest, and a donation to the Friends of Strays Animal Shelter. Once registered, you and your pup will be entered to strut in the Dog Parade, where thousands of spectators will be cheering you on.
After the parade, the panel of judges will select finalists to take the main stage for an audience participation round to determine the Crowd Favorite and ultimate winner.